Garage doors rely heavily on extension springs to balance the door’s weight and allow it to stay open smoothly. When a garage door won’t stay open even after installing new extension springs, it can be frustrating and sometimes unsafe. This problem is common among homeowners with extension spring systems, and especially notable when new springs are installed but the door doesn’t hold its position. Here’s a detailed explanation of the possible causes and how to fix them.
What Extension Springs Do
Extension springs are mounted on the sides of the garage door tracks. They stretch and contract to help counterbalance the door’s heavy weight. Proper tension in these springs is critical so the door can stay open without manual support. If the springs lack proper tension or are incorrectly sized or installed, the door will fall shut or fail to stay open.
Common Reasons a Garage Door Won’t Stay Open with New Extension Springs
- Incorrect Spring Size or Strength
New springs must match the exact weight and size specifications of the door. If the springs are too weak or too long, they won’t provide sufficient tension to hold the door open. Spring tension is designed for specific door weights; mismatch causes the door to drop or be hard to lift. - New Springs Are Too Tight or Too Loose
Fresh springs may be at maximum tension initially, causing the door to behave oddly as the metal “settles” over time. Springs can slightly loosen or stretch with use, so the door might require a period of adjustment before it stays open reliably. - Spring Installation or Adjustment Issues
Improper installation or uneven tension between the two extension springs can cause one side of the door to sag or not hold. Both springs need to release tension evenly; otherwise, the door may become misaligned or unable to stay open. - Cables Are Worn or Not Properly Tensioned
Extension springs work with cables that run alongside the door. If a cable is loose, frayed, or slipping off a pulley, the door might not stay open. Cables support the springs’ tension and door balance. - Damaged or Worn Out Hardware
The pulleys, brackets, or other hardware parts related to the springs may be damaged or worn. This prevents the springs from doing their job correctly. - Door Weight or Track Issues
A door that is heavier than expected (due to added insulation or damage) requires stronger springs. Similarly, bent or dirty tracks cause friction and prevent smooth operation, making the door hard to stay open.
What You Can Do to Fix It
- Confirm the Springs Are Correct for Your Door
Verify that your new extension springs are the right type and strength recommended for your door’s weight and size. - Give New Springs Time to Settle
Allow a few days or weeks for new springs to “break in” and adjust. During this time, expect the door to need gentle assistance. - Check and Adjust Spring Tension
Springs often have hooks or adjustment methods to fine-tune tension. Ensure both springs are balanced equally. If unsure, have a technician inspect. - Inspect Cables and Replace if Needed
Check cables for wear, slackness, or misalignment. Replace frayed cables promptly to maintain spring support. - Examine Hardware and Tracks
Lubricate all moving parts and clear debris. Repair or replace any broken pulleys, brackets, or bent tracks. - Avoid DIY if Uncertain
Extension springs carry high tension and can be dangerous. If not confident, contact a licensed garage door technician for repairs.
Signs You Need Professional Help
- The door falls quickly or slams shut instead of closing smoothly
- Visible gaps or breaks in the springs
- Spring or cable snapping noises
- Door opens crookedly or unevenly
- Door won’t stay open even after adjustments
Frequently Asked Questions
Can new springs be faulty?
Yes. Springs can sometimes be defective or not match door specifications, causing poor performance.
Is stretching or loosening of new springs normal?
Some settling is normal as metal adjusts, but excessive loosening means improper installation or wrong springs.
How often do extension springs need replacement?
Typically after about 10,000 cycles (opening/closing), but environmental factors can shorten lifespan.
Is it safe to replace springs myself?
No, because extension springs are under high tension and pose injury risks. Always hire a professional unless you have proper training.
Properly functioning extension springs are essential to a garage door’s safety and performance. If a newly installed spring system fails to keep the door open, careful inspection and professional adjustment are recommended to avoid damage and injury.
Dmytro Shevchenko is the owner of Prime Garage Door Repair, a trusted garage door repair company serving the Chicagoland area. Based in Mundelein, IL, he leads a team of certified technicians specializing in emergency repairs, opener and spring replacement, and complete garage door installation.
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