Springs
Why Does My Garage Door Slam Shut?
If your garage door suddenly drops with force or feels impossible to lift, the most common cause is a broken spring. Springs counterbalance the weight of your door. When they fail, the full weight shifts back to you and the opener—making it dangerous to use.
Types of Garage Door Springs
- Torsion Springs – Located above the door, wound tightly on a bar. If you see one snapped in half, it’s broken.
- Extension Springs – Found on either side of the tracks with pulleys and cables. If one is stretched out or split, it needs replacing.
- TorqueMaster Springs – Hidden inside a tube above the door. If your door is heavy and won’t lift after pulling the red release handle, chances are the internal spring is broken.
Simple Checks You Can Do
- Look above the door for a torsion spring that’s snapped in half.
- Inspect the sides of the track for broken or stretched extension springs.
- Test a TorqueMaster system by pulling the red release handle. If the door feels too heavy to lift, the spring inside the tube has likely failed.
Why It’s Unsafe to Operate With a Broken Spring
A garage door can weigh over 150 pounds. Without a spring to balance that weight, you risk injury, property damage, or burning out your opener motor. That’s why it’s important to stop using the door immediately if you suspect a broken spring.
Next Steps
The good news is that springs are replaceable and can be ordered online. Many homeowners choose to tackle this repair themselves with the right parts. Whether you need torsion, extension, or TorqueMaster springs, we have you covered.
👉 Shop here: Garage Door Springs
Wrapping Up
If your garage door slams shut, don’t ignore it. A broken spring is the most likely cause, and fixing it early will save you time, money, and headaches. Identify your spring type, order the correct replacement, and get your door back to smooth operation.
What is the main cause of a garage door slamming shut
The most common cause is a broken spring. Without it, your door loses its counterbalance and drops quickly.
How do I check if my spring is broken
Look for a snapped torsion spring, a stretched extension spring, or test a TorqueMaster system by pulling the red release handle. If the door feels too heavy, the spring is broken.
Can I still use my garage door with a broken spring
No. Operating a door with a broken spring is unsafe and can damage your opener. Stop using the door until the spring is replaced.
Where can I buy replacement garage door springs
You can order torsion, extension, and TorqueMaster springs directly here: Express Garage Doors.
Also in Garage Door Parts - DIY Handbook
Why Does My Garage Door Only Open a Few Inches?
Does your garage door start to lift but stop after just a few inches This is one of the most common signs of a broken spring. Here’s why it happens and how to fix it safely.
#1 Best Way to Diagnose a Broken Garage Door Spring
Not sure if your garage door spring is broken This simple test will help you diagnose the problem quickly so you can stop guessing and take action.
Why Won’t My Garage Door Go Up? #1 Reason
Garage door stuck and refusing to open The most common culprit is a broken spring. This guide shows you how to spot the signs, understand the cause, and fix it safely.