Broken Garage Door Springs: What Homeowners in Illinois Need to Know

Sep 10, 2025

A garage door may look simple from the outside, but it relies on several moving parts working together behind the scenes. One of the most important components is the spring system. Springs carry the weight of the door, making it possible to open and close smoothly. When a garage door spring breaks, it can leave homeowners with a serious safety hazard and a door that won’t function properly. At Rocke Overhead Doors, we believe every homeowner should understand the basics of spring failure, what it means, and why professional replacement is always the best solution.

Why Garage Door Springs Break

Garage door springs are designed to last for years, but they don’t last forever. Over time, wear and tear take its toll. Most springs are rated for a certain number of cycles—one cycle being a full open and close of the door. When those cycles are exceeded, the steel begins to weaken.

Other factors that contribute to broken springs include:

  • Rust or lack of lubrication
  • Cold Illinois winters that put extra stress on metal components
  • Uneven weight distribution if the door is off balance
  • Sudden impact or damage from objects hitting the door

When a spring finally breaks, you’ll often hear a loud snap or bang. At that point, the door may become extremely heavy, uneven, or impossible to lift.

The Safety Risks of Broken Springs

A broken garage door spring isn’t just inconvenient; it can also be dangerous. Springs are tightly wound and store a large amount of tension. When they snap, they can cause serious injury if handled improperly. Trying to force the door open or attempting DIY replacement can also lead to accidents.

Homeowners should also be aware that broken springs can damage the garage door opener. Without spring support, the opener is forced to carry the full weight of the door, which it isn’t designed to do. This can quickly burn out the motor or cause additional costly repairs.

Professional Broken Spring Replacement

The safest and most effective way to fix a broken garage door spring is to call a professional. At Rocke Overhead Doors, our technicians are trained to handle broken spring replacement with the right tools, parts, and expertise. We inspect the entire door system, replace the damaged springs, and ensure the door is properly balanced before finishing the job.

We use high-quality replacement springs designed to withstand years of use, giving homeowners confidence that their door will continue to operate safely and reliably. With our team handling the repair, you avoid the risks of injury and prevent unnecessary strain on your opener.

Protecting Your Garage Door in Central IL

While spring failure can’t be avoided forever, homeowners can take steps to extend their lifespan. Regular maintenance, including lubrication, inspections, and minor adjustments, goes a long way in preventing premature wear. At Rocke Overhead Doors, we offer maintenance services to keep your garage door running smoothly and reduce the risk of sudden breakdowns.

Contact Rocke Overhead Doors Today

Broken garage door springs are one of the most common repair issues homeowners face, but they don’t have to disrupt your life. Rocke Overhead Doors proudly serves Central Illinois with expert spring replacement and residential garage door repair services. Contact us today to schedule service and restore the safety and performance of your garage door.