If you have a garage door opener, you may think that the motor inside of the device is what raises and lowers your door. However, this is only partially true. While the opener helps get the process started, it is the springs that pull and push the door that do most of the work.

Because they are under constant strain, they may start to stretch, making them incapable of doing their job. If you have noticed that your garage door is not opening and closing correctly, look for the signs below that indicate that the springs are bad and need replacing.

1.  Garage Door Will Not Stay in Place When Raised Halfway

The springs that hold your garage door must remain tight enough to carry and hold the door even when it is only part of the way open. One way you can tell whether or not the springs are bad is by performing a simple test to see if the door will stay in place when raised halfway.

To perform the test, start with your garage door completely shut, then release the emergency brake so that it hangs loosely. Then, pull the door up until it is in align with your waist, and let it go. 

If it stays in that position, there is likely another issue causing the problems with your door. However, if the door moves or slams shut, then your springs are the likely culprit.

2.  Door Makes Screeching or Popping Noises While in Motion

Another sign that your garage door springs are failing is the presence of loud screeching or popping noises while the door is in motion. Normally, when the springs are in good condition, you will only be able to hear the low humming of the opener as the door is being raised.

However, if the springs are stretched out, they will struggle to pull up or let the garage door go down. As they struggle, the coils may start grinding together to make the screeching noise. Or, they may shift out of position, which would account for the popping noises that you are hearing.

If you notice either or both of the above signs, your garage door springs are most likely worn out and stretched and should be replaced. If you believe this is the case, contact a garage door repair service to have them inspect the springs and other components of the door so that they may take the necessary action to fix the problem.