Why Fixing Your Garage Door Shouldn't Be a DIY Project

You're the type who likes to handle things yourself—whether it's because you enjoy the challenge or you simply don't want to spend money on something you feel you can do for free. If this sounds like you, there's one household project you might want to reconsider tackling on your own: repairing your garage door.

Why It's So Dangerous to Tackle Garage Door Repairs Yourself

Your garage door is likely the largest movable component in your home, and its sheer size and weight often catch people off guard. Many homeowners underestimate just how heavy their garage doors really are because modern systems use powerful springs to make lifting them seem effortless. But don't let those springs fool you—when they malfunction, they can pose serious risks.

Most garage doors rely on torsion springs mounted above the doorframe to counterbalance its weight. These springs are carefully calibrated during installation to ensure smooth operation. When these springs break—or even become slightly unbalanced—it can lead to significant issues with opening and closing your door. Unfortunately, attempting to repair or replace these springs yourself can be incredibly dangerous.

For starters, every garage door model has unique specifications regarding spring tension and balance. Using the wrong type of spring or failing to properly calibrate it can result in uneven operation, making the door harder to open and close—or worse, causing it to crash shut unexpectedly. This not only compromises safety but also increases the likelihood of damaging your vehicle, property, or even injuring yourself.

Let’s say you notice one of the springs has snapped. While it may seem logical to replace only the broken spring, this approach is rarely advisable. Springs typically wear out simultaneously due to similar usage patterns. Replacing just one spring without addressing the other could create an imbalance that leads to further complications down the line. Not to mention, improper adjustments could void warranties or render your warranty provider unwilling to cover future repairs.

Another factor to consider is the complexity involved in safely working with such heavy components. Garage door systems often include additional elements like cables, pulleys, and tracks, all of which require precise alignment. Attempting to adjust these parts without proper training or tools puts you at risk of severe injury. In fact, mishandling garage door equipment has been linked to numerous accidents involving crushed fingers, limbs, and even fatalities.

Instead of taking unnecessary chances, leave garage door repairs to professionals who understand the intricacies of these systems. They possess the expertise and specialized tools necessary to address potential hazards effectively while ensuring long-term reliability.