Many homeowners ask whether it’s possible to fix a garage door spring without professional help. While some repairs around the house are DIY-friendly, garage door spring replacement is one of the most dangerous tasks in home maintenance.
Garage door springs are under extreme tension. A typical torsion spring can hold hundreds of pounds of force.
Common risks include:
Sudden spring release causing serious injury
Loss of door balance leading to door collapse
Damage to the opener, tracks, or door panels
Even experienced DIYers can get hurt without proper tools and training.
In most cases, the answer is no.
You may find online videos showing DIY spring replacement, but they often:
Skip critical safety steps
Use professional-only tools
Underestimate the stored energy in the spring
For extension springs, minor adjustments might be possible, but torsion springs should always be handled by trained technicians.
You should contact a professional if:
The spring is broken or cracked
The door feels extremely heavy
The door opens unevenly or slams shut
You hear a loud “bang” from the garage
Professionals have:
Proper winding bars
Safety restraints
Experience with torque calculations
While DIY may seem cheaper at first, a mistake can lead to:
Medical bills
Door replacement
Opener damage
In most cases, professional repair costs far less than the risk of injury.
Garage door springs are not a beginner-level repair.
If safety matters to you and your family, professional service is the safest and smartest choice.
A: It’s not recommended. Springs work in pairs, and incorrect tension can cause imbalance and safety issues.
A: Stop using the door immediately and contact a professional technician for inspection and repair.