Introduction
Measuring garage door springs is an essential task when it comes to maintaining and repairing your garage door. Accurate measurements are crucial for ensuring the proper functioning of the door and the safety of those using it. In this article, we will dive into the details of how to measure garage door springs correctly.
Types of Garage Door Springs
Before we delve into the measurement process, it’s important to understand the different types of garage door springs commonly used. The two main types are torsion springs and extension springs.
Torsion Springs: Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door and are usually found in pairs. They work by twisting or coiling to store energy, which is then released to lift the door.
Extension Springs: Extension springs are typically mounted on either side of the garage door, parallel to the horizontal tracks. They stretch and contract to provide the necessary force to lift the door.
Measuring Torsion Springs
To measure torsion springs, you will need a few tools and measurements:
Tools: Tape measure, winding bars, and a ladder.
Step 1: Close the garage door and disconnect the opener.
Step 2: Locate the torsion spring. It is usually located above the door, parallel to the header.
Step 3: Measure the length of the spring. Use a tape measure to measure from one end of the spring to the other, excluding the winding cones.
Step 4: Determine the wire size. This can be done by measuring the diameter of the wire used in the spring. Use a caliper or a wire gauge tool for accurate measurements.
Step 5: Count the number of coils. Start from one end of the spring and count the number of complete coils.
Measuring Extension Springs
To measure extension springs, follow these steps:
Tools: Tape measure, ladder, and safety glasses.
Step 1: Close the garage door and disconnect the opener.
Step 2: Locate the extension springs. They are usually mounted on the sides of the garage door, parallel to the horizontal tracks.
Step 3: Measure the length of the spring. Use a tape measure to measure from one end of the spring to the other.
Step 4: Determine the wire size. Measure the diameter of the wire used in the spring using a caliper or a wire gauge tool.
Step 5: Count the number of coils. Start from one end of the spring and count the number of complete coils.
Conclusion
Accurate measurement of garage door springs is crucial for proper maintenance and repair. Whether you have torsion springs or extension springs, following the correct measurement process ensures the safety and functionality of your garage door. Remember to take precise measurements of the length, wire size, and number of coils.
References
– doityourself.com
– garaga.com
– ddmgaragedoors.com
