Garage door springs are the most important yet overlooked component of any garage in Ontario. Many people believe that once you install them, they will work just fine until they do not. However, one thing you need to be aware of is that you can actually extend their lifespan with regular maintenance and checks.  Nevertheless, if that is not an option anymore and your garage door has started to show signs of wear and tear, such as partial opening, banging noise, visible gaps, and crooked doors. It is about time you replace the broken springs.  Much like any other part of your outside home management plan, choosing the correct garage door springs can be tricky, especially if you are replacing the springs for the first time. Door size, weight, wire size, type of spring, and other factors play a huge role in determining which garage door spring is best for your garage door.  In this article below, we will discuss all you need to know to buy a garage door spring in Ontario. From discussing the type of garage door spring to learning about other important factors, we will cover different aspects so you can make an informed choice. 2 Types of Garage Door Springs to Buy in Ontario The springs are an essential component of any garage door as they ensure smooth and safe functioning. They help manage the weight of the door and allow it to lift and lower down without any problem. So, when it comes to choosing the garage door spring, there are two main types of springs that you can choose from, i.e., Torsion and extension. If you are not thinking of replacing the whole garage door, you must select the one you have already installed. Let’s learn about these springs and their function in garage doors.  Torsion Springs Torsion springs are the most common type of garage door spring. They are primarily used in residential garage projects as they are durable, operate smoothly, and do not easily damage other garage door parts. Since these springs can manage more weight, you will also see them in commercial projects as well. For most residential garage doors, there are one or two visible springs responsible for managing the weight. However, depending on the size and weight, some doors may require up to four springs to handle weight.  These springs are installed horizontally just above the sectional garage door to provide smooth lifting and closing of the door. They are tightly coiled on the metal shaft and are constantly under extreme amounts of tension. Simply put, torsion springs work by storing mechanical energy, which is equally distributed across the metal or torsion shaft to open and close the door. When the garage door opens, the spring begins to twist on the shaft along with the attached cable, and the tension on the torsion spring lifts the door. Similarly, when the door closes, the same spring twists in the opposite direction to increase the tension or get back into a loaded “torsioned” state.  Typically, torsion springs come in a few different types, such as standard torsion springs, early set torsion springs, steel rolling door torsion springs, and torque master torsion springs. All these types are used in both residential and commercial garages depending on the need.  Extension Springs As the name suggests, extension springs run parallel to each side of the garage doors and store energy by expanding and contracting. These types of springs are usually found on older and smaller garage doors in garages with lower ceilings. They are further categorized into three different types: open-looped end, double-loop end, and clipped end. However, you will not find them in modern garages because they are less durable and less smooth compared to torsion springs. Also, they are only used in residential properties as they have a lower capacity for handling weight and load than torsion springs. When it comes to the cost, they are a more affordable option compared to torsion springs. Extension springs work by stretching and extending, and there is at least one spring on each side of the door. So, when the door closes, the spring fully stretches, adding tension to the weight of the door. Though the springs on both sides of the garage door operate independently, they must share the weight of the door equally for it to operate correctly. However, one of the downfalls of using these springs in the garage door is that they may break when fully stretched, which can be dangerous. Therefore, extension springs must also have safety cables attached to them in case the springs break. If the springs are not working in harmony, the uneven opening and closing of the door can add stress to the tracks, therefore requiring you to buy a new one. In summary, after thousands of opening and closing cycles, both types of garage door springs will eventually lose their resiliency. When it happens, it is better to buy a new garage door spring so that the door continuously works smoothly and safely.  Factors to Consider When Choosing a Garage Door Spring Now that you have learned about both torsion and extension springs in detail, let’s discuss how the door’s weight, size, wind direction, and other factors come into play. Considering these factors below will eventually help you decide which garage door springs you should buy:  Garage Door Weight and Size The garage door weight and size are two of the most important factors to consider when choosing door springs. Just like discussed earlier, torsion springs offer excellent durability and functionality to large doors that are also heavier. These springs are used in garages for both residential and commercial properties as they can effectively handle weight when opening and closing doors. In contrast, smaller doors with less weight can benefit from extension springs. To learn which one works best for you, use a bathroom scale to weigh the door and consult a spring selection chart. With the correct height, weight, and size, you…
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Garage door springs are the most crucial component of any garage door. However, they are also the most overlooked by the homeowners. This is because most people pay attention to the areas that are primarily visible and can impact the appearance of the house. While garage door springs may not look aesthetically appealing, keeping them in good shape is essential to ensure proper garage door functioning and your safety.  So, if you were delaying the replacement project, thinking it would take days to complete, you are in for a surprise. Unlike other home improvement projects, garage door spring replacement only takes about a couple of hours if done by a pro. In the post below, we will explore some of the most common signs that indicate your garage door springs need your attention. We will also discuss how much and how long it can take to replace the broken springs. So, let’s get into the details.  5 Common Signs of Failing Garage Door Springs Over time, garage door springs tend to lose their durability, functionality, and smoothness, causing them to break or fail. Whether the door is partially opening or runs very fast on the way down, it can be a serious safety problem that must be addressed before any injury or vehicle damage.  This is when the springs must be replaced with the new ones. However, many homeowners need help to distinguish between adequately functioning and damaged garage door springs. If you are finding it difficult as well, here are some common signs you must look out for. So, replace your garage door springs if: Garage Door Only Opening Partially If your garage door stops abruptly halfway, the problem might lie within the springs. Partially opened garage doors can be a clear indication of broken or worn-out garage door springs. The springs are responsible for providing the tension needed to lift the door and manage its weight effectively. Over time, they may lose their elasticity, resulting in operational issues. Due to this, the door not only struggles to open and close, but it may also pose a safety danger that should be addressed immediately.  Visible Gap in the Springs The purpose of the springs is to expand and contract with the closing and opening of the door. Over the years, the constant tension in the springs can cause them to elongate, leading to visible gaps in the spring coil. The break in tension and visible gaps in the springs means they are failing and need to be replaced before any severe damage to the vehicle or injury.  Garage Door Feels Heavy When you open or close the door, it feels cumbersome, which means the garage door springs are no longer supporting the weight as they should. If the springs fail to manage the door weight, the entire weight rests on the person lifting or closing the door. If you also feel that the door is heavy, be sure to check the condition of the sprigs and replace them immediately.  Loud Banging Sound Whenever you try to close the garage door, and it sprints on the way down, this indicates the springs have broken. When this happens, it usually causes a loud banging sound because springs release the energy all at once. If you hear a banging sound or noise, your garage door needs a few repairs before you try to use it again.  Crooked Door Garage doors usually have two springs working independently to share the weight of the door. This makes sure that the door opens and closes smoothly without any problem. However, when one of the springs starts to fail, the door is supported unevenly, causing it to appear crooked or unbalanced. To fix the issue, you must replace both garage door springs to ensure you are not facing any mechanical problems in the future.  These are some of the most common signs of a failing garage door springs. Suppose you notice any of these signs or other unusual signs. In that case, you must consult with professionals such as Custodia, who specializes in these home improvement projects, to replace a garage door spring on time.  Cost & Time Estimates to Replace a Garage Door Springs for Ontario In Ontario, the cost of replacing a garage door spring includes both labor and material costs. Depending on the spring you want to replace, the cost and time of the installation may vary.  For torsion springs, the parts and materials can cost you anywhere between CAD 120 and CAD 350 for Ontario. At the same time, the installation cost could be around CAD 100 to CAD 250 per hour. The overall project cost can range from CAD 550 to CAD 1,100 and can take around 2-4 hours, depending on the type and size of the door. For extension spring replacement, the prices are much lower for both the material and replacement cost. The total project could cost you CAD 270 to CAD 620, depending on where you live and the complexity of the replacement. When it comes to service time, it only takes approximately 1-2 hours to complete the job.  Tips for Maintaining Garage Door Springs While replacing the worn-out garage door springs is the only solution to ensure you keep using the garage without any safety hazards, maintaining the springs regularly can also extend their lifespan. This is important as most homeowners tend to delay the replacement and maintenance of the springs, thinking they still have time.  However, the break usually happens all of a sudden, giving you very little time to look for a solution. In fact, many times, it can cause vehicle damage or a severe safety issue. So, to stay out of this situation, here are a few safety measures and maintenance tips to follow: 1. Visual Inspection Regular visual inspection of your garage door and its components, such as hinges and springs, to ensure it stays in good shape for years. No, you do not have to check the components every other week.…
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Are you considering installing a garage door yourself in Ontario? If yes, you have come to the right place. In this article below, we will walk you through all the steps you need to install a door yourself. We will also talk about things you must consider when buying a new door and installing it yourself. While the installation process is difficult and time-consuming, there is nothing better than taking on a project and completing it all by yourself. Let’s dive right into it.  How to Install Garage Door By Yourself If you are thinking of installing a garage door yourself, it is important to know that doing so can be difficult if you do not have the proper knowledge and skills to do so. While most people call professionals, Like Custodia in Ontario, some prefer to do it themselves to save on the installation costs. Related read: What Is The Average Price Of Installing A New Door In Ontario? Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install a garage door yourself: 1. Take Precise Measurements The process of installing a new garage door starts with accurately measuring the garage opening. For this, you must take a measuring tape and take precise measurements of width and height from multiple places. It is important to collect the right size as it will ensure proper installation that will last you years.  2. Check the Existing Frame When collecting the size of the garage door, you do not want to forget the frame condition. Inspect the condition of the existing frame and make repairs where needed. This step is important as you want your door to sit and fit perfectly for stability and longevity.  3. Buy the Garage Door After making sure the frame is in good condition and you have the right measurements, visit your local hardware store to pick your desired garage doors. Garage doors come in a variety of types, materials, and sizes, so make the choice based on your preferences.  4. Install the Track Once you have your hands on the garage door. It is time to install it properly. Start by attaching the track system to the ceiling using proper equipment and hardware. Also, make sure it is level. Next, by using mounting brackets, you need to adjust the height of the tracks according to your preference.  5. Hang the Door By following the manufacturer’s instruction manual, assemble the door section and screw in the hinges. Next, you want to install the rollers on the door section and put them on the tracks so that they can slide smoothly. 6. Attach Cable and Spring System You also want to make sure that you are attaching the cable and spring system accurately to ensure proper door balance. To do this, start by connecting the cable to the door section and then attach the torsion system. You want to adjust the tension of the torsion spring until the door seems perfectly balanced.  7. Install Door Opener Next, you will need to install the door opener. Make sure the garage door opener you are selecting is compatible with the door type, weight, and size. For this, follow the manufacturer’s user manual to the word.  8. Final Checks Once everything is installed and attached, check your door for alignment so that it is opening, closing, and locking smoothly. You can add safety sensors as well, making sure your home is safe and secure all the time.  What to Consider When Installing Garage Door Before you buy a new garage door for installation, you must be aware of a few important factors that make a whole difference. From selecting the size of the door to ensuring it has safety features, here are a few important considerations.  1. Garage Door Type and Size When it comes to choosing a garage door to install in Ontario, you must consider its type and size. These are two of the most important aspects to consider, as they can affect longevity and functionality. In Ontario, where the weather can get harsh with freezing cold and heavy snowfall in winter, you must install a door that is perfect for the local climate.  Some of the most common types of garage doors include sectional, roll-up, side-hinged, carriage, and contemporary. Out of all these, sectional is probably one of the most common and popular choices. These are ideal for Ontario’s fluctuating weather as they offer excellent durability, insulation, and ease of use. Side-hinged garage doors are probably the most aesthetic option out of all, but they are not ideal for Ontario’s weather.  Moreover, when choosing the size, there is no such thing as “almost” with the garage doors. For the door to offer proper durability, insulation, and functionality, you must choose the perfect size door. If the door was custom-built before, you will not find the size you are looking for in a hardware shop. You will need to have it custom-built again.  2. Material Selection Once you have finalized the type and size of the door, the next thing not to take lightly is the material of the door. Now, when choosing the material, you must consider factors like durability, insulation, and performance. For Ontario’s weather, your garage door must be functional and well-insulated. Selecting the right material will make a huge difference in maintaining energy efficiency and consistent indoor temperature.  Among the choices include steel, aluminum, wood, vinyl, and fiberglass. Since the weather in Ontario can get very humid in summer and freezing cold in winter, a steel garage door is the best option. This is because steel doors work well in both cold and hot weather and offer excellent durability and insulation. Plus, they stay functional even during heavy snowfall and rain. With steel garage doors, your home will stay warm in winter and cold in summer, reducing your energy bill significantly.  Fiberglass is another excellent option due to its durability and functionality, but it is less well-insulated than the steel door. When it comes to…
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