Garage Door Springs Maintenance: Keep Your Door Running Smoothly

Your garage door is one of the most used parts of your home. That’s why it’s essential to maintain its moving parts, including the springs and rollers. A garage door isn’t just aesthetic — it also acts as a security door. Many homeowners use it as a second entrance, so keeping it functional and secure is critical.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

Like your vehicle, a garage door requires routine care. Metal components need regular lubrication throughout the year. Proper lubrication can extend the life of your door and eliminate annoying squeaks. Use an industrial, non-silicone lubricant rather than WD-40, which works more like a cleaner than a true lubricant. Avoid grease too, since it can attract debris and damage springs and rollers.

Lubricating Your Garage Door Springs

Focus on the torsion springs, which lift and lower the door. Lubricating them improves efficiency and significantly increases their service life. Do not lubricate bearings or tracks — cleaning them is far more effective.

Types of Garage Door Springs

Torsion Springs
These are the most common springs. Unlike extension springs, they don’t stretch when the door moves. They rotate, last longer, and typically handle up to 20,000 cycles of opening and closing.

Extension Springs
These expand and contract with each door cycle. They usually last around 10,000 cycles. Considering most doors open and close about four times per day, torsion springs can last 13–15 years and extension springs about seven years, depending on maintenance and usage.

Spring Maintenance Tips

Garage door springs are under extreme tension. Never attempt major repairs yourself. Always call a professional for torsion spring repair.

Start maintenance with a visual inspection. Look for rust, broken parts, loose fasteners, damaged cables, or worn wheels. Check nylon rollers for cracks or chips and steel rollers for uneven tracking. Monthly inspections help catch problems early.

Twice a year, clean and lubricate torsion and extension springs. Extra lubricant prevents corrosion and ensures smooth operation.

Call the Professionals

If your springs or garage door need repair or replacement, contact Dodds Garage Doors for 24/7 service. Our technicians are trained to fix your door safely and efficiently.

Call 1-877-503-6337 to schedule an at-home assessment today.