Garage door springs counteract the force of gravity, allowing a door to be opened electrically or manually. Many variables could result in a door not opening properly. As such, the spring assembly should be assessed since a faulty spring or a piece connected to one could contribute to the altered opening of your garage door.

Torsion Springs

Torsion springs resemble coiled wire that is thick in diameter and tightly bound together. These springs are located horizontally above large, heavy garage doors. When a torsion spring is in motion, it slowly twists and exerts torque in the opposite direction.

If a metal fastener that is attached to the assembly comes loose, or if the tension spring itself has become stuck in the tube-like structure that it is connected to, the movement of the spring will be hindered and an equal amount of tension will not be administered during the operation of the door. For a loose fastener issue, use a power drill to tighten it.

During the repair process, leave the door closed and disconnect the automatic door opener. If the hardware is stripped, replace the metal fastener. For issues affecting the movement of the torsion spring, inspect the metal coils, and determine if they are wound tightly and possess a uniform appearance.

If the metal seems to be unaffected, use canned air to clean the axis (tube-like connection). Dirt or dust may have settled into the chamber of the axis and be hindering the performance of the springs. For bent or stretched out springs, refrain from trying to replace the damaged part and hire a garage door repair person. 

Extension Springs

Extension springs are coiled and use a pulley mechanism to operate. Energy is stored and released during the opening and closing of the door. When in motion, the pulley will provide resistance against the end of the springs, causing them to extend. Once the opening or closing cycle is complete, the springs' compact shape will be restored.

Lighter garage doors tend to use extension springs and these metal pieces will either be aligned along the interior sides of the door or over the top of the door. Deactivate your automatic opener and inspect the springs. Make sure that the pulley attachments haven't disconnected and inspect the shape of the metal coils.

Metal that is corroded or covered in dirt could affect the performance of the springs. Use a degreasing agent and rust remover to clean the affected metal. If the springs appear to be worn out or if the shape of the metal coils is inconsistent, hire a technician to replace the extension springs with new ones. Check out this website, https://raynordoor.com/, or similar websites for more information.