The weight of the garage door is held on the top and sides by torsion springs. Each time the door is raised or lowered, the torsion springs are under a lot of tension. Being under tension for long periods of time can cause the torsion springs to wear out, eventually resulting in breakage.
This torsion spring life cycle may occur several times during the garage door’s life. When it happens, as the homeowner, you need to decide whether to replace the springs by yourself or to hire a professional. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros of Fixing it Yourself
Cost – Since you are paying for professional help, your only out-of-pocket cost will be the price of the springs.
Flexibility – You can fix the torsion springs when it is convenient for you.
Frequency – The need to replace the springs can happen anytime. If you are able to DIY you won’t need to have the pros on speed dial.
Cons of Fixing it Yourself
Safety – Without proper experience and knowledge, spring replacement brings the potential for serious lacerations or loss of limbs.
Time – The first time you try to replace the springs it may take valuable time that could be spent somewhere else. You will need to locate the springs, remove them, and take the time to know you are doing it right.
Risk – If you are unfamiliar with the parts used to work the garage door run, you can potentially do more harm than good.
Pros of Hiring a Professional
Knowledge – Professional repair technicians have the required amount of experience and knowledge to easily replace the torsion springs.
Tools – Tools are an expensive item to purchase but they are essential to doing the job right. Professionals bring along everything needed with them.
Warranty – Repair work done by repair technicians comes with a warranty that covers parts and labour.
Cons of Hiring a Professional
Less Info – You will be hiring on faith only unless you are familiar with a certain company and the results of their work.
Time Spent – To make sure you aren’t being overcharged, a little bit of research may be needed to find the right company with the right quote.
Cost – You will be paying for the cost of the replacement parts, as well as the time of the professional. If there is lots of work to be done this can add up to a huge bill.
Ultimately, the decision you make will need to consider the tools you have at home, how comfortable you are with doing the repairs yourself, and your financial situation. To make an informed decision, weigh the pros and cons of your garage door’s torsion spring replacement carefully.
