Properly back-tensioning your garage door springs is an important maintenance task, but it can be dangerous if not done with extreme caution. Garage door springs under high tension can cause serious injuries if they break or slip off the winding cones. Let’s go over the proper procedure to back-tension springs safely.
First, you’ll need the right tools for the job. Safety glasses are a must to protect your eyes in case a spring breaks. You’ll also need a winding bar or tension tool that is rated for your door size and spring diameter. Ratchet straps can help secure springs as you work. It’s always best to have a helper for extra safety.
Before you begin, disconnect the door from the opener to avoid accidentally activating it. You may also want to disconnect the springs to minimize stress on them as you work. Mark the winding cone and center bracket locations so you know how far to wind each spring.
Now you’re ready to start back-tensioning. The key is to apply tension gradually and evenly on both sides. Insert the winding bar into the winding cone and apply gentle, steady pressure to turn it clockwise. Check frequently with a wind gauge or tape measure to see how many turns you’ve added.
Garage Door Spring Repair in Chesapeake can offer expert help if needed, but with care, you can safely do this yourself. Just be sure to go slowly and watch for signs of over-tensioning like broken clips or brackets bending. Stop well before that point.
As you work, repeatedly check that the springs are winding evenly on both sides. Going too far on one side can cause problems. You may need to back off slightly if one spring winds faster. The goal is to achieve the same number of turns on both springs when complete.
Proper back-tension is crucial for smooth, balanced door operation. Too little and the door won’t fully open or close on its own. Too much can damage components or cause accidents. Most experts recommend 1/2 to 3/4 turn past the point where the door is just light enough for you to open manually.
Finally, once satisfied with the tension, securely fasten the winding cones back onto the center bracket. Double check all hardware, springs and mountings before closing up and reconnecting the opener. Run the door through a full open-close cycle to test its function.
With patience and care, back-tensioning your garage door springs at home is very doable. Just be sure safety is the top priority. Having the right tools and taking breaks can help you focus on the slow, methodical process. By following these guidelines, you can keep your door working well for years to come.
Shellie Olivares is a dedicated home blogger who has been blogging for over six years. She covers everything home related. Shellie also loves writing posts about her travels to Europe with her husband and two children.