Broken Garage Door Torsion Spring
Posted October 2nd, 2006 @ 12:22pm by Erik J. Barzeski
I returned home this morning after running an errand. I walked upstairs and sat down at my computer desk when I heard a loud "CRACK!" I went downstairs to investigate, thinking perhaps a picture had fallen off the wall, but found no such damage.
It wasn't until I wanted to go to Best Buy (to buy electronics compressed air) that I noticed the spring above my garage door had snapped in two. Prior to this point, I am not even sure I knew garage doors had what I now know are called "torsion springs." Turns out many do (the other kind is the extension spring) and that they last only about 10,000 cycles, or 7 years if you open and close the garage door twice per day.
Since the torsion spring is what helps lift the garage door, and because my garage door features no "handles" per se, I cannot get out of my garage door. Fortunately, I'm not dumb enough to lift part way, either, as I'd rather not have 250 pounds slamming me to the ground.
Repair will cost about $100-$120, but I'll likely get both garage door springs replaced at the same time for a cost of $150-$180. The other will likely go soon, and I'd rather it not be when someone is walking beneath it.
I did find this do-it-yourself garage door torsion spring replacement, but frankly, for the time and effort and danger I'd save, I'm more than happy to spend $60 on labor.
Donate Life
Posted 02 Oct 2006 at 4:09pm #
Yeah, there's no way I'd want to take the risks to save a few bucks on something like that. It's a job best left to professionals.
Posted 02 Oct 2006 at 4:31pm #
It ended up costing only $140.45 to get both replaced. Took the guy about an hour. $65 or so of that was the service call (labor) charge, so I'm happy to pay it.
Posted 29 Nov 2006 at 7:30pm #
I will add my two cents to this topic. There's much talk on the net from folks that can hardly change a light bulb to Engineers that are so smart it takes them 3-1/2 hours to complete this job. Matter of fact a certain engineer writes over 30 pages on how to install torsion springs and goes on in on about it. Wow! That's some extra time I would like to have. My first attempt at this job took me 35 minutes and I'm far from an engineer. As far as how dangerous this job can be, well that depends on who is doing the install. I know plenty of accident proan installers that hurt themselves no matter what they do. I've watched installers and company owners with 50 years in the business up on uneven ladders, with tools, broken springs, buckets scattered all about. Then they cry when they fall and break something. I've also met and talked to thousands of my own customers that install these springs without a hitch. I know this because they call me back or email their success stories. If you have any doubts of your own abilities then I suggest you call someone out of the yellow pages. Notice I never mentioned professional. This is because I have customers that are better skilled garage door installers than most companies hire nowadays. Take your time, do your due diligence and shop for the best price. I'm here to answer all of your questions. 1-866-970-7278
http://www.diygaragerepair.com
Ask for Mike
Posted 19 Dec 2006 at 1:05pm #
Surf the web for spring prices (~$20 ), then ask your self what you really paid that guy for an hour of his time. Make sure he's insured.
Posted 19 Dec 2006 at 1:13pm #
Joe Blo said on December 19, 2006:
The job cost about $140. Two springs run about $50 after S&H. It took the guy about an hour. That's $90/hour. It would have taken me two to three hours, the purchase of some additional tools, and a whole lot more courage than I had writing a check.
In other words, it was well worth it.
Posted 30 Apr 2007 at 9:07am #
I replaced both of my torsion springs in less than 2 hours and this is the first time I've attempted to do this repair. There is plenty of information on the web on how to do this job safely. In 7 - 10 years when I have to replace them again I'll be able to do the job in less than an hour. I spent $67 including shipping and handling to buy the springs on the internet. This job is less dangerous than working on a roof or using a chain saw. I'm more likely to seriously hurt myself mowing my 2 acre lawn on my riding lawn mower 20 times each spring and summer. I would rate myself as a middle of the road do-it-yourselfer, and I'm not an engineer, just an Information Technology guy. The bottom line is that the fear mongering is just an industry ploy to strengthen business.
Posted 17 May 2009 at 12:47am #
Hey Bill,
I agrre that the fear of doing this job is industry based. However, I do wonder how you determined the size of your springs. Once I get that own, I might be a little more confident. Thanks,
Omar
Posted 26 Jul 2007 at 10:32pm #
Could someone tell me how long should Torsion Springs on the garage door last? Our last door we were constantly replacing the torsion spring. The new door was replaced June of 2003 and now July of 07 a torsion springs on one side is broke and we have to replace both springs.
Could someone tell me how long a torsion spring should last?
Posted 28 Jul 2007 at 8:01pm #
At first I was just as apprehensive about fixiing my garage door equiped with torsion springs. But after reading about, how to repair, it on the internet. I tried it for the first time today. And I must say, it isn't as hard as most people say it is. I did it less than an hour of my time.
Posted 16 Oct 2007 at 8:32pm #
My torsion spring broke after being on for just 2 years. I called one place and they quoted about $250. Seems very high.
Posted 18 Mar 2008 at 1:54pm #
Just paid $185 to have both springs replaced. The spring breaks about every 4 years. We open and close our garage a lot because of teens driving and my wife and I both work from the house.
I thought it was a high price, but called another local place and they wanted $195.
Posted 20 Mar 2008 at 11:26am #
I live in MD. I called a local place to replace a broken (left-side)torsion spring, the quote is $108 for service call and $98 for the spring. I called another place and was told to buy a torsion spring on internet myself and he will install it for me for $100. Are these the typical costs? Thanks for any information.
Posted 23 Mar 2008 at 11:36am #
Lou said on March 20, 2008:
I live in Michigan. I got a quote to replace bot the torsion springs for $150 (I think the break down is $50 or $60 for parts + $90 or $100 for labor). I gave the go ahead on this part of the repair.
However, the gears in my garage door opener are shreedded and not working. I got a quote of $125 for parts and labor for replacing the gear assembly (drive gear, worm gear, etc). The technician suggested me to replace the garage door itself ($285 parts and labor) since it is 9 years old.
I have to decide between replacing the garage door opener or just the gear assembly in the current one. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Regards
Raavango
Posted 28 Mar 2008 at 2:24pm #
I just replaced both torsion springs on my garage door. The door is 50 years old so I had to have custom springs fabricated with crawford ends.
Any competent do-it-yourselfer can complete this project.
IMHO, there is too much fear in general in our society. What ever happened to the fundamental American ideal of self sufficiency.
Posted 15 Apr 2008 at 10:07pm #
Raavango, don't fall for th e oldest trick in the book. Bait'n switch.
They quote you a low price, then add parts you probably don't need, finaly th e whole door. Buyer beware.
Posted 20 Apr 2008 at 2:52pm #
I am just in the middle of installing new tension springs on my garage door. The job if very simple if you look on the web for tips and tricks. The hardest part for me is going to be finding the springs. Being in canada i would love to be able to order off the internet but the shipping would cost more the the springs. But it's not a difficult job the hardest part is taking the tension off of the springs.
Posted 20 May 2008 at 9:25pm #
Just remember, if you do the job incorrectly, i.e. wrong size spring, not enough tension, timing of cables, stripped set screws on the drums,etc., can end up costing you a homeowner's claim when the door falls on your car. I see that and bloody garages regularly. Good luck though, see you in the ER.
Posted 04 Jun 2008 at 2:26pm #
I ordered my spring last week. Received it last evening. Replaced it last night-about 1.5 hrs. No problems. My garage door is a single car, steel door (weighs about 100lbs). Used the Engineer's site to calculate my spring's dimensions (the previous spring was undersized-leading to premature failure), and number of turns to preload the spring. For my size door, the spring tension was not anywhere close to frightening. It's definintely a DIY job. Got my spring from prodoorsupply.com.
BTW, I live in California. Spring cost=19.00, Shipping=13.00.
Good luck on your projects.
H
Posted 07 Jun 2008 at 8:55am #
To Henry, The spring you replaced successfully is an extension spring if your door weighs 100 lbs and costs $19. The torsion springs on doors that weigh between 325-1000lbs are much more serious to attempt. Congrats on your project.
Posted 09 Jun 2008 at 1:21pm #
Now I really feel terrible... Same thing (about the loud noise) happened to my husband and I on Friday evening. We looked everywhere and the only thing we could find was metal shavings on the back of my dark green car. Next morning I used my old car that's parked on the street to run errands. Got home at 12:00 noon and found out that my husband could not open the garage door to get his vehicle out. He called 6 places before he could get someone to come out on a Saturday to replace the springs. One place that's 1 hour away quoted him $1,000 to replace the springs - it's a two-car garage with only one door, so I really don't know for sure but it looks like 2 springs to me. He did get someone who was much closer. It took the guy 20 minutes and we were charged $450! Oh well - after contemplating all the scenarios (door falling on someone, or my pets, or the cars themselves) plus having it done so quickly - I guess it was worth the money. We both work - so having it done during the week (which probably would have been cheaper) was not an option. Live and learn - I NEVER heard of this happening. WOW is all I can say.
Posted 09 Jun 2008 at 10:24pm #
To Liz, Normal business ours jobs should cost between $189 for one spring and $295 for two. Sundays and holidays will cost a premium because of having to do a call out. As far as the time that it took, it's impossible to do the job in 20 mins. 45 to one hour is the average start to finish including guaging the spring and replacement. Be careful of the big adds in the yellow pages. The bigger the ad the more you will pay. Good Luck!
Posted 12 Jun 2008 at 12:25pm #
My spring broke. When we lifted the door to get my car out, a couple of the wheels came off the track and the cable is all messed up. The quote I just got is for $645.57 including- tune up 25, labor 150, lifetime spring 150, wheels 160, cables 100, bearing 30 and tax. How do I know if I need all of this?
Posted 14 Jun 2008 at 5:59pm #
Yeah, I work for a company that has been fixing garage doors for 70 yrs, I've been there for 16 and there is no such thing as a "lifetime warranty" on any type of spring. The game in this industry played by the ripoff artist is promising a lifetime warranty to justify there high pricing. And guess what they are no longer in business for the consumer to take advantage of the lifetime warranty or the change their name to hide from the responsibility.There is not a garage door repair I could offer someone that would cost $600.( Residentially and not custom) We call that a new garage door. Get the word out about the big truck adds in the yellow advertising books that feature companies that are not local. Do business with companies that have an office that you can go to and speak with the GM. Good Luck!
Posted 16 Mar 2009 at 9:54pm #
All you guys think your saving money by doing it yourself, and bragging about the springs only costing 50 dollars, well let me tell you, I only pay between 6 and 9 dollars per spring, and most garage door guys only pay that too. As far as whoever is saying 600 is too much to pay for this type of work, really needs to go back to McDonalds and work there if he is bragging on how little he charges, what an idiot. You win the prize....... you did it for the lowest prize. Why dont you get out of this business, your the type of scumbag who ruins businesses. Please dont reproduce and make babies because your a loser. This must be NG
Terrance
Posted 14 Jun 2008 at 6:03pm #
RH, Get a second opinion on your door. Most companies offer rebuild kits for your door that range from 300-400 depending on the size which includes all of those parts. Unless they are going to do this work after hours or on a holiday you are getting ripped. Good Luck, use the Better Business Bureau in your area is the safest bet.
Posted 27 Jul 2008 at 4:07pm #
I work 2nd shift so I arrived home about midnight last Friday night and attempted to open the garage....it would only go up about 6" only to come right back down. What's going on??? I was curious as @#ll and immediately went into the garage to invistigate only to learn one of the torsion springs broke. I usually attempt to fix anything that breaks myself but I've heard of so many horror stories on the dangers of working with these springs. I consider myself very frugale but when it comes to torsion springs.....leave it to the more experienced. Paying someone else to do it as apposed to risking injury is a no brainer. Now remember...I said I was frugale, so I get estimates! I just started doing that and so far I've had one quote for $155.00 for 1 spring replacement. I will be getting at least 5 more estimates before I decide who to go with. I will post a added comment to this post with the final cost I incured for this. This is probably one of a half dozen projects I would NOT attempt to do due to safety concerns.
Posted 11 Sep 2008 at 9:54am #
My Garage Guy (Lake County Door in Waukegan, IL) is outside as we speak, and I am having two springs replaced (Only one is actually broken). They are well over 15 years old!
He quoted me 165.00 for one spring, and 210.00 for both. He said it would take about an hour.
After reading everyone's experiences, it seemed pretty fair to me.
Also, I would like to add, that the repair man called and showed up exactly when he promised. This company did work for me in February; replaced cables, bottom fixtures, and rollers, and then replaced a large gear in the opener and at that time charged me 250.00.
As a 50+ year old Women, I think the money is well worth it.
Posted 27 Sep 2008 at 12:45pm #
Our garage door spring broke this morning. (We live in Jacksonville, FL) I called several companies to see who could come out today and quote a reasonable price for the repair. America's Choice quoted me $139 for one spring, which covered the part, labor and service visit. When the repair man arrived, less than an hour after I called, he suggested I replace both springs since the unbroken one was sagging. He said it probably wouldn't last much longer. Since the springs are almost ten years old, I agreed. He charged me $239 to replace both springs. I thought an additional $100 for the second spring was steep. But since he was already here I didn't want to haggle.
Posted 28 Sep 2008 at 9:43pm #
I first noticed the symptom described by Mike above a couple of days back. My wife heard the loud metallic sound (like something hit the door), but only today did I realize that it was because of the broken spring.
The strangest thing is that the garage door will still open fully if I press and hold the door open button on the inside. But if I use the remote, it opens for a few inches and stops (doesn't fall back).
Replacing them seems simple but potentially dangerous. I'm going to ask around for a quote before deciding on whether to do it myself.
Do any retail stores carry these springs?
Posted 01 Oct 2008 at 6:25pm #
ummm i have a old garage were i have to pull it up and i want to know how do u tightin it up im trying to find diffrent website and this is the only one that has the most information im only 15 sooo
can you help me out??? 
Posted 01 Oct 2008 at 11:29pm #
In my 30-year career servicing garage doors I have probably replaced over 15,000 residential and industrial garage door springs.
Some of these torsion springs still scare me because the cone holes have inconsistent sizes and the winding bars often slip out, causing the spring to unwind without warning. Do-it-yourselfers are frequently injured when this happens.
At our web site I show pictures of which cones are dangerous, and I also outline safe procedures for replacing springs so that if the winding bars do slip out of the cone, the diy-er will be less likely to get injured.
If you're thinking about replacing your own garage door torsion springs, get the facts. I am as happy when a potential customers tells me he called a professional to fix his garage door just to be safe, as I am when a customer e-mails us telling us how easy it was and how quickly he replaced his springs.
Posted 20 Oct 2008 at 2:14pm #
hi, I had this fixed recently and cost $ 325....I think it's way too high when I read thses postings.
Labor was $ 80, for the parts he charged $ 220, service call $ 25. I fell shocked that some of you did it for $ 140 to $ 150. I am in Atlanta, feel like these peopl are ripping us.
Posted 20 Oct 2008 at 9:34pm #
Always remember that Torsion spring's are very dangerous and regardless of whatever any armchair quarterback here say's, you can get hurt badly and property can get damaged. Call your local BBB for good companies in your area and understand the differences in cost posted on this site are market driven. Spring's in L.A. will cost twice as much as Atlanta. Look out for the companies that are subcontracting work out. If someone arrives at your house in an unmarked vehicle, be very careful. They get paid according to how much they charge you. 20-30% of the total bill. Stick with established businesses with proven reputation's in your area. The cheapest price quoted over the phone will often cost you more in the long run.
Posted 20 Oct 2008 at 11:01pm #
I am new to message boards, and I wasn't sure if this one would automatically post our url.
Here is the web site where you can find detailed pictures and procedures for safely replacing garage door torsion springs. You'll also find all the parts and tools you'll need to fix your garage door.
http://ddmgaragedoors.com/residential/torsion-spring-replacement.cgi.
Posted 21 Oct 2008 at 8:44pm #
Probably not the best advise for the novice Dan. I've been to many a bloody garage because of sites like that one. Stick with a pro for safety.
Posted 23 Oct 2008 at 10:16am #
Tate said on October 20, 2008:
I wish I had read this sooner. I paid a repairman $895 this morning for a rebulid (2 car- 1 door). The cables and springs and wheels were replaced with a 5 yr warranty. He said a new door would cost $1800 so this seemed like a more reasonable choice at the time. Live and learn!
Posted 28 Oct 2008 at 7:51pm #
I just replace 2 spring, my cost 139 each spring, 100 per hour labor, $380.00
Posted 29 Oct 2008 at 11:06pm #
Tate said on October 21, 2008:
The warnings at http://ddmgaragedoors.com/residential/torsion-spring-replacement.cgi will scare away any novice; it's not an "anyone-can-do-it" site.
I think Tate would have to admit that there are many mechanically-inclined do-it-yourself-ers who can safely replace their own garage door torsion springs.
Also, just as there are safe ways to drive a car there are safe ways to replace garage door springs. But being safe at both can still land you in the hospital.
Accurate information is essential to safe torsion spring replacement.
Another good resource for additional information is Richard Kinch's page at http://www.truetex.com/garage.htm.
In my 30 years repairing garage doors I've only seen two doors with blood on them. At least one of the accidents would not have occurred if he had first read the instructions at DDM Garage Doors. I was not given the details of the other accident.
Posted 10 Nov 2008 at 2:12pm #
The thing about springs is this yes a do it yourselfer who is determined and has lots of time on his hands can change springs the question is what's your time and safety worth? As someone who has done 1000's of spring chances on all kinds of overhead doors let me tell you this, most of the information for these do it yourself spring change sites is incomplete. A real Pro knows from years of experience all the in and outs of not just springs but how the door works and how it should work. Not only does a pro have years of experience working with springs but they also know and have worked with every other part on a Garage Door. The important thing to remember is springs only work Garage Doors that have been installed properly. Over time floors crack and move, framing moves, doors sag, the hardware can get loose or break, bolts can come out and on and on you get the idea? When it comes to Garage Doors it is the real professional with years of experience and knowledge to know what to look for in order to evaluate the whole system so it can be repaired properly and safely.
Posted 02 Dec 2008 at 4:34am #
cracked spring after 15 years. used yellow pages. quoted over phone $150 for 1, $210 for both. dispatcher confirmed door won't open manually with a cracked spring. said tech would show within 4 hours. tech showed in 2 hours and even called first! spent 30 minutes replacing both, tightened bolts, greased rails, etc.. gave written warranty: 60 days labor, 2 years on springs. said springs should last 10,000 cycles (cycle=up and down). for an additional charge they offer a 30,000 cycle spring.
Posted 04 Dec 2008 at 2:32pm #
A guy is here right now replacing our two springs (one broke last night). It's $215, which seems reasonable as it's a big door (18') and it's 20 degrees outside. My husband noticed it this morning as he was leaving for work. Heard a noise last night, like something fell, but couldn't find anything. My rather handy husband was once replacing a spring when it shot by his head and made a hole in the wall behind him. We'll leave this to the professionals.
Posted 19 Dec 2008 at 1:30am #
I just removed my garage door myself. It was a LOT of work, and I probably wouldn't attempt it again without some help, but now I don't have to worry about garage door springs. I got a silent intruder alarm and a shotgun so no worries for me. Hardest part of the job was replacing the buckshot with rock salt. If anyone thinks they can steal my lawnmower just because I don't have a garage door, well, they are going to find out what it I found out the hard way when I tried stealing watermelons from the not so friendly farmer near our home when I was a teenager. OUCH!!
Posted 06 Jan 2009 at 10:37pm #
We are paying $400 to replace 2 garage-door springs after we complained that the original price of $460 was too high.
Big Lesson: Be sure you get a bid on this job before the repairman shows up. Once they show up they'll quote you a high price and then want to charge you a "service call" fee for looking at the broken spring.
Posted 08 Jan 2009 at 8:59pm #
Mike, you seem to have a very negative attitude. Do you try to put down other trades, or just the garage door trade? Maybe you should check around, because, all door companies aren't irresponsible, and most, have integrity! Maybe more than you! I, for one, have enough referred business that I don't have to be too agressive to keep busy.
A person with no experience should NEVER take on a spring repair by himself. They ARE dangerous! Garage door springs have different wire gauges, and different inside diameters. If they don't get the right size, they can have drastic consequences. The door can be too hot, or can't pick the door off the floor. It can run out of power before the door is all the way up, and to push it the rest of the way can let a cable off the drum.
If I go to repair a door that the owner attempted, I have to tell them that it will take me longer, and it makes my job more difficult, than had they called me in the first place! Therefore, it will cost them more!
I AM a professional! You are NOT! Warren
Posted 14 Jan 2009 at 6:06pm #
My husband is a garage door installer with 15 years of experience. In his experience he has seen installers injured by garage door springs. This mostly happens in commercial work but it does happen in residential situations also. He has seen people who try to do it themselves get hurt. I'm sure there are some handy people who can figure it out if you take the time to learn what you are doing . But if you're not that handy and you haven't done your homework first Stay Away From The Springs. And Please use the Right Tools for Safety Reasons, DO NOT try to use screw drivers in place of winding bars!!! We are in Portland, OR and my husband charges 140 for a single spring change and 195 for a double. Extension springs are less. My husband is nice and doesn't charge people extra if it is Saturday or late at night, unless it's past ten or eleven and would only charge extra for Sundays or Holidays (sometimes he doesn't even then, but he's nicer than most companies). He can change a spring in 20-30 min. If one of your springs broke and you have two change them both, the other one WILL break in a few days to a couple months and then you have to pay for someone to come out again. Regular springs are 10,000 cycle, you can open and close the door 10,000 times (about 7-15 years depending how often you open your door). If you don't want to worry about your springs breaking again ask about 50,000 or 100,000 cycle springs, they will last the life of your door. Make sure your door is balanced when the installer is done. Disconnect the opener and open the door to different heights, the door should stay stationary at any position, if your door wants to open or close the door is not balanced and your spring will not last as long as it should. If your spring broke after only a couple years and you don't open and close your door ten times a day, chances are the installer of the springs used the wrong size spring to save himself money and to get a service call out of you a couple years sooner. Don't use the same company to change your spring! Torsion springs will most likely break in the fully closed position or close to it when the spring is under the most pressure, so always make sure nothing is under the door while closing it. And when they break they stay on he torsion tube they won't fly through the garage like extension springs. Here is something Really Important if you don't have torsion springs and you have extension springs, springs that extend toward the back of your garage, MAKE SURE THEY HAVE SAFETY CABLES, these are cables that run through the center of the spring. That way when an extension spring breaks it stays on the cable and will not be a potentially deadly projectile in the garage. My husband has seen many walls and cars badly damaged because the extension spring shot like a bullet through the garage (Imagine if there had been a child or pet in the garage). If you have any questions about Garage Doors please feel free to email, my husband is always happy to answer peoples questions about garage doors lovethecanada@hotmail.com
Posted 15 Jan 2009 at 6:43am #
Sounds like we/re getting the word out. Don't go to the yellow pages or the internet to find a company. Get advise from your local Better Business Bureau to assure you won't get taken advantage of, especially in this economy. The individuals in that group are held to a certain professional standard and code of ethics. Good Luck!!!!!!!!!!
Posted 08 Feb 2009 at 12:47pm #
This forum has been very useful. I am very handy but after reading all the safety instructions and diy pages, I agree that if you can find a reasonable service provider locally, better get the professionals and be safe than sorry.
The challenge I face is finding a "reasonable" GD springs repair professional in the bay area. Any help from local bay area forum users is appreciated.
Posted 08 Feb 2009 at 8:12pm #
I have an older torsion setup, with the springs mounted over by the rails at each end of a very long door.
A cable snapped, and I do not have winding cones. I'm wondering how to re-tension these springs? I have never seen this setup before in my life.
Posted 09 Feb 2009 at 12:22am #
If your door has torsion springs, there has to be a way to wind them. Some of the older, I mean, MUCH older doors were anchored on a bracket that covered the cable drum. They still had winding cones on them. I've seen a lot of different systems, even cables and pulleys with concrete weights, even rocks, in the wall. Some of the newer systems have concealed springs, or mechanical winding devices, and you can't wind them with winding bars.
There are so many things I read in this site, it scares me, that some of you will attempt this task. I agree, some of you are up to it. More of you are not! Tell me, what do you do if someone has tightned the set screws so tight on the torsion bar that you can't remove the springs, or the drums? I've been there, and had to replace the torsion tube. How many of you diy's will tighten the screws that tight? How many will not tighten them enough? Do you know what will happen if the tension on the lift cables are not equal? Who are you going to call when the cable won't stay on the drum, and you think you followed the directions to the letter? When you think you measured the old springs perfectly, get them installed, and can't get the door to balance, too hot off the floor, have to take a couple of winds off them, then you run out of lift, opening the door, and the cable comes off! Who do you call then? How much are you willing to pay to have someone who knows how, to come fix it then?
I agree, you should get more than one price, unless you know someone, or are friends with someone who does know someone! Just because you aren't aware of prices, because, how often do you have to deal with this? Reputable door companys won't take advantage of you, just because you don't know. After hours, most will charge a reasonable fee for calling someone out after regular hours. They have to pay the help extra!
Don't let someone tell you sagging springs are a sign of worn out springs. Springs don't wear out! the metal in them fatigues from the movement in them winding up and down. They are just as strong from the time they set in, till the day they give up! There is no way to know when a spring will break. We just know that if you have a pair of springs, the same size, one breaks, the other will usually break soon after. That is because they have both had the same movement, winding, and unwinding!
A "professional" garage door repair man will check things other than the springs for excessive wear, and most will not use grease on the track. A garage door lube, which is basicly a dry lube, is adequate, and isn't messy if you come in contact with it. You can usually purchase a can from your service man, and periodically lube the rollers and hinges yourself. You don't have to lube the track.
A professional can certify as to the system's safety! Peace of mind!
One last thing, It isn't true that you shouldn't call someone who has a website. I have evaded this for all these years. Now, with the economy as it is, I developed a website. I wish to have my share of the market, and to do that, I have to be visible to a larger market! I still ask you to ask for estimates, and asure yourself that it won't change after the job is done.
Posted 09 Feb 2009 at 11:15am #
iunderstand where you are coming from above there. I say the same thing to people taking big trees down on their property. Call a pro, its dangerous.
I've done some doors before, but with this one I'm tellin' you, there is no winding cone. If I knew how to insert a image here I would. The springs are not on a long shaft. They are individually mounted way over at each side of the door on their own bracket. I'm guessing the house was built in the 30's, and its a 900lb solid wood 2 1/2 car wide door.
PS: I called a couple guys. 2 came out to look at it, and none have called back, come to repair it, or return my calls =) They must be thinking the same thing as me "how the heck do I wond that sucker"
Posted 09 Feb 2009 at 11:09pm #
Michael, I'm convinced you have extension springs. They should hang by the side of the horizontal track with a ring or "S" hook attaching it to the rear track hanger bracket, and a cable/pully system from the front of it, over a sheave, (pulley) to the bottom of the door. It must have the pulley system incorporated because the spring won't stretch enough to let the door to the floor. Make sure whoever replaces the springs for you include a containment cable. It could save your life!
Posted 10 Feb 2009 at 7:01am #
Actually, they are probably extension springs, but look like torsion springs. On a door made in the 1930's, they mounted torsion springs either vertically on the sides of the track, or horizontally near the ceiling. No winding cones, just u-hooks. We won;t see these often at all. Doubt the door weighs 900 lbs though. Probably around 300-400.
Posted 22 Feb 2009 at 10:22pm #
My husband is a true do it yourselfer. After an entire saturday of listening to him complain as he tried to repair our garage door, I called a residential door company. It was pricy, but well worth every penny. Not listening to hubby complain: PRICELESS!
Posted 05 Mar 2009 at 12:15am #
I only watch the first segment, after seeing this guy touch the spring with his hand that was enough for me. There is another video with a professional installer. He an older gentlemen, he used vise grips to hold the Torsion tube as a safety precaution. Not once did the installer touch the springs during the installation process.
If you are not confident using hand tools, hire someone. It took me approximately 45mins to install both sides.
Posted 05 Mar 2009 at 1:24am #
To Fireballs, The gentleman you watched used the visegrips to HOLD the torsion tube, so the cables would remain taught, and not flip off the drums while winding the springs. It was not a safety procedure. Just one of the steps we PROFFESSIONALS take to make our job EASIER, and makes us more efficient!
I don't know where "Tate" got his information, but I remembered he said it was impossible to replace a pair of springs in 20 minutes. It doesn't happen on all spring replacements, because sometimes the tube is distorted from over tightening the set screws on the springs, or cable drums, and they won't let close fits slide over these distortions without a battle, but today was one of those times everything went perfectly, and 12 minutes after I backed in his driveway, I was putting my tools away, and while he wrote the check for $150. 00, I lubed the rollers and hinges. (Something I always do) and I don't charge a service charge on top of the price of the repair! (The gentleman was watching the time because he had to leave to drive school bus as soon as I finished.)
The professional is usually the best bet for garage door repair, because Most of us have learned how to be efficient, and safe!
Loosening all the set screws and sliding the torsion tube one way, then the other, is the quickest and usually the easiest way to remove and replace the springs.
Posted 05 Mar 2009 at 7:34am #
Warren, I was merely stating that doing the job safely and thoroughly ,you couldn't do the job in 20 minutes. Yeah, if I was "RACING" to get the job done any Pro could. I like to give my customers value for their dollar by checking the complete system and adjusting to proper safety specs. Good job though, you're fast.
Posted 05 Mar 2009 at 1:22pm #
I agree with you, Tate, on being thorough. I wasn't racing, and everything just clicked! The installer did a good job by not over tightening the set screws. That made it come apart, and go together MUCH easier. I checked the up and down sensitivity, and when I adjusted the down pressure, I noticed the chain was slack, and that there was residue around the sprocket. I went back today and replaced the sprocket assy in the opener. The owner didn't have time yesterday!
Posted 06 Mar 2009 at 3:48pm #
Tate...charging $289 to replace two broken springs? Seems very high to me!!! Listen everybody...No one should be paying more than $210 to have both springs replaced on a standard two car garage..If Tate charges $289....I suggest you look elsewhere
Posted 06 Mar 2009 at 5:24pm #
We do spring changes every day in Denver area a standard 2 car 16x7 wood or steel door for $195 includes two 15,000 cycle galvanized springs. Comes with a 3 year parts and labor warranty. Includes lube, tune and opener ajustment. We never replace one spring if one is broken the other is shot too. I've seen other companies charging as much as $600 for the same service. If you know what your doing and we do. Spring changes just take a few minutes in most cases. No matter what anyone says on this site or others this is a job best left to professionals. It's really not a do it yourself job.The guy telling you it is a do it yourself job is trying to sell you springs! I watched the guy on UTUBE do a spring change it scared the hell out of me. That fool was lucky he didn't kill himself. It looked to me like when he was done his door wasn't balanced right anyway. Best advice hire a pro.
Posted 06 Mar 2009 at 9:51pm #
To Ownerofcoconutsinsouthpadre, wow that's a mouth full, antway pricing is relevant to the market you are in. Atlanta is a huge Metro and the marketplace merits that price.All of my pricing is via competition surveys in this market. Yours could differ. Also, warraties from company to company differ. A 3-5 year warranty is normal. Anyone offering a lifetime warranty are feeding you a load of it. They won't be in business for you to collect on that warranty. Good Luck!
Posted 16 Mar 2009 at 10:16pm #
you fools are all giving your labor away and trying to brag about how low you charge, like the guy who says listen it shouldnt cost more then 210.00 how the hell does he know what it should cost, just wait until you get sick and cant work, and have no money because you never charged anyone for your work you idiot. Your all trailer trash people talking on here it sounds like, I get almost 800.00 dollars for 2 springs, and 500.00 for 1, I dont care what type of spring it is, if my expertise and experience is at there house, doing this shitty type of work, they are gonna pay me good. What do you think this is burger king, have it your way. I also charge 1300 for a garage door opener too, and I am so busy I work late every night, even weekends. Get a life and charge before you find yourself standing in a bread line. It shows how your mentallity is buy what you charge, customers dont really care, most of them always act surprized but dont really care, they have the same reaction when I charge 100 dollars for something as 800, and they all still pay the bill with a smile.
Mr T
Posted 17 Mar 2009 at 8:36am #
What city and state do you work in?
As I mentioned in my post above I was charged $239 to replace both springs. I've lived in 11 states and we've had 12 different houses. (My husband is transferred a lot.) I've had the springs replaced on our garage door in most of those houses over the years. The most I have ever been charged was $350.
If someone tried to charge me $800 I would not only report them to the Better Business Bureau, I would make sure they were added to our neighborhood list of shiesters. AND I would warn all my friends. If you make our neighborhood shiester list, the guard won't even let you in the front gate.
The man who replaced my springs not only enjoyed his work, talking to me while he worked about exactly what he was doing, but he was pleasant and helpful in all respects, checking everything else on the door while he was here. If I have to replace the whole door, or have any more repairs done on this door, I won't hesitate to call him and recommend him to my friends and neighbors.
Posted 17 Mar 2009 at 10:53am #
No one is paying $800 for a spring change unless they are stupid. $1300 for a Garage Door Opener is insane. People you need shop around only criminals charge prices like that. Trailer Trash I wonder who's the trash? Just goes to show you ripp-offs abound.
Posted 17 Mar 2009 at 12:32pm #
A.H. (rectom) I believe you are not even in the garage door business! Your remarks, and language, reflect on your mentality! You appear to just be a smart allec trying to be funny! You are not! Anyone who would pay that much for your services probably doesn't have the intelligence to earn the kind of money it takes to pay your fees, or they make so much that they don't get a second opinion.
I don't know where you get your springs for 8 or 9 dollars. At that price, I wouldn't trust them to even be wound, let alone operate a door. Even extension springs cost dealers more than that!
You probably should get a job, and quit harrassing people trying to earn an honest living!
Posted 19 Mar 2009 at 2:36am #
Could anyone tell me if I got totally ripped off or just a little ripped off? Not ripped off at all??
Called a company to repair my garage door yesterday and he charged me a "package" deal of $599 plus $85 for labor. It took him over an hour. Replaced the pole that holds the springs, the the middle bracket, two springs, the cables, 2 torque force drums (?) and sealed bearings. Sprayed lube.
It is rolling single door for a 2 car garage and both springs were broken. Probably about 15-20 years old. He said he didn't have springs that fit the pole thing so he had to replace the pole thing. He was very professional and came out the same day within 30 minutes of the 2 hour window. Looks and sounds like he did alot and at the time I thought the cost was higher than anything I imagined, but was happy to pay it as it was a dangerous situation. But what would I know, I wish I did a little research before now reading all the deals people got...
Posted 19 Mar 2009 at 3:38pm #
Leslie, I would never put $600 in an old door. I don't know what part of the country you’re in but $600 in a 20 year old door sounds like a scam to me. We install new un-insulated 16x7 steel doors for around $800. That includes removing your old door and installing the new door with all new hardware, track and springs. The parts you bought only cost about $75.00 max. Next time shop around chances are good you didn't need most of the parts you paid for. We never replace parts unless they are visibly broken.
It’s a well known scam for the rip-off artists to do what they call a door rebuild. They put a few inexpensive parts into and old worn out door and charge $600 to $800. When they’re done you still have an old unsightly and potently dangerous gargae door.
Posted 19 Mar 2009 at 3:02pm #
Hi all,
I have been in the door business for over 30 years, my wife worked in the industry for over 12 years, my father was in the business and my brother is also in the business.
Bottom line on replacing springs on garage doors.
Cost to hire it out, Total cost. Labor & Material
Replace one torsion $100.00 - $150.00.
Replace two torsion $150.00 - $250.00.
Replace two extension on a one car door, $100.00 - $150.00
Replace two extension on a two car door, $150.00 - $200.00 but as much as $500.00 ( older, heavy two car extension spring door can have very large springs )
These prices are TOTAL labor and material. And are approximate.
All spring jobs should include lube and adjustment of both the door and opener + a safety inspection. INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF THE SPRING REPLACEMENT. Any additional work should be billed time and material and quoted before the work is done. There are many things that can break and or wear out on a garage door or opener.
Torsion springs are bought and sold by weight. There are several major spring manufactures in the country, and they all are very close in price. A dealer in Florida is paying pretty much the same as a dealer in Oregon. Same for all door hardware and opener parts and controls, not bought by weight, but priced the same throughout the country.
There are many different sized springs, the factors involved are: Inside diameter, wire diameter and length. All of these effect the overall weight of a spring. A average torsion spring on a two car residential door should cost the end user approximately $50.00. This price is effected buy the price of metal at the time the spring was made and shipping costs to the dealer. Over the past year the raw costs involved in manufacturing springs have varied greatly from month to month and shipping costs have also varied greatly. The $50.00 price mentioned above is a rough average and does not include labor to install or any other charges, just the cost of one average torsion spring.
Extension springs should cost the end user approximately $20.00 - $50.00 for one spring for a one car door and $20.00 - $100.00 for one extension spring for a two car door. The more the door weighs, the more the spring will cost. Again, springs on older, heavy doors can cost over $100.00 ea.
These are the facts regarding spring costs.
When we talk about labor, we have to take into effect the area of the country, so therefore this can vary widely.
Lets say Indianapolis IN. Today's market.
Replace one torsion spring on a residential door, $50.00 - $150.00
Replace two torsion springs / residential door, $75.00 - $200.00
Replace extension springs, residential door, $50.00 - $150.00
This is LABOR, add the cost of the spring or springs to these numbers, and again all are approximate., but close to actual.
Full page adds in the yellow pages vs one line adds in the yellow pages.
Bigger companies have bigger overhead, they need to produce more revenue. They are also more apt to have fully insured employees that make decent wages and have benefits. Many of the bigger companies have several long term employees.
Some of these big companies are fair and honest some are not.
Smaller one man operations and small family ran garage door business. Less overhead, less revenue needed. Likely an installer or service person who has decided to break away from a bigger company and hang out their own shingle. You will find some very dedicated people in this group and you will also find some real scam artists.
There is no pat answer as to a bigger or smaller company is better than the other. Same goes for the size of the add in the phone book. A guy with a small add will tell you that all the folks that run full page adds are ripping you off, and the guy with the full page add will tell you to stay away from the " tailgater" with nothing to loose.
DO YOUR HOME WORK.
As to the talk about how long does this take.
A good door man can run 8 - 10 service calls in an 8 to 10 hour day. Not all service calls are broken springs mind you. Typical replacement of two torsion springs takes 45min to 1 hour, of on the job time.
Same job for a first timer should take about 2-3 hours after studying up on the subject and taking the time needed to do it safely.
Do it your self:
Yes, it can be done, is it dangerous, yes it is. But so is using a circular saw, a drill, lawn mower, cleaning your gutters or crossing the street for that matter.
Just as you should do your homework choosing a " professional " to repair your door, if you choose to repair it yourself, you must also do your homework.
In the times we currently live in there will be more of a need for many people to become more self sufficient. Garage door repair is only one of the many things that we will all start looking at as a means to save money.
Steve
Posted 19 Mar 2009 at 3:12pm #
Leslie. I don't know your geographical location, but where I live, I would say you REALLY were taken advantage of! I haven't seen your "pole" torsion tube, but it probably didn't need to be replaced, as well as the cable "torsion" drums. They don't wear out! As for the cables, they can get frayed, an need to be replaced. Seldom!
It doesn't hurt to replace rollers and cables if they warant it.Even the bearings on the torsion tube. If the tube has been ruined from overtightening springs and drums, then the tube should be replaced. Whenever someone wants to do that extensive a service, ALWAYS ask to see the old parts, and watch them remove them so you can see that they aren't old parts from someone elses door! Have the tech show you the difference between the old and the new, BEFORE he installs them. Also, VERY unusual to have BOTH springs break at the same time.
I can't stand a liar or a thief. Sounds like your tech was both! Gullibility is no excuse for ripping people off! WD
Posted 19 Mar 2009 at 6:06pm #
Leslie, looks about $150.00 more than you could have paid. One thing to remember, the job is done and you're happy. I'll second the info. Warren supplied, and only add call your local BBB before you have any contractor/company come out to your house. Their code of ethics is the best around. Documentation on the business complaint history is provided at no charge. Good Luck!!!
Posted 19 Mar 2009 at 9:03pm #
Tate, we should conclude that after you find that someone has taken advantage of you, and you have found out about it, call the BBB and report them. It may save someone else the same experience!
WD
Posted 19 Mar 2009 at 9:49pm #
Kirby, while 6-800 dollars is obtuse, replacing a 30 year old Crawford or OHD oak frame door with a non insulated POS is just as obtuse. Now if you want to go with any type of sandwich steel, I see your point. Putting springs, cables, rollers, drums( and yes they do wear out, the set screw holes strip out and crack) and headplates with bearings, is an excellent repair to one of those types of doors. The older solid wood doors ( not pine)are 10 times better. So I would conclude, give your customer options and let them decide whats best for them. Good Luck Everyone!!!!
Posted 20 Mar 2009 at 2:03am #
Thanks for your comments everyone. By the way I am in Northern California, SF Bay area. Both springs did not break at the same time. The first one broke and was pointed out to me probably a few years ago, but I didn't know what that meant, the door was opening fine as far as I knew. This door is on my parents house, where I do not live. Oh also he said we had old cables that were actually fine but the "law" was that the cables they install now for that type of door should be a thicker heavier type. I feel a little better, Tate that I think you're saying that he replaced what he should have. Also, the door itself looks to be in excellent condition, and I think it is pretty heavy too. Although most are saying that I surely did get overcharged, I'm ok with it because the reason it was such an emergency (not that this detail is important!) was not because we needed to get a car out of the garage to get to work or it was in danger of falling on someone, but my 85 year old father who has dementia was climbing ladders and trying to take apart the thing saying he could fix it, because he built it (not true) therefore endangering himself. I needed it fixed and I got it fixed. I should let it go now or I will drive myself crazy!! Thanks again all.
Posted 26 Mar 2009 at 9:14am #
My wife tried to open the garage door this a.m. and it went up about six inches. After investigating in the garage, I looked up to discover the torsion spring was broken. I have heard horror stories abour these things from my neighbors, so I called a pro located not too far from me. He came out and talked to me about it and said that you should replace both springs, since the other one will break soon. I didn't want to be around when that happened!! He quoted me a price of $195.00. I live in Dearborn, MI and this is a local company with a good rep. so I said go ahead. He's out there right now and said it should take about an 1/2 to one hour. It seems like a small price to pay for a project that I don't want anything to do with.
Posted 26 Mar 2009 at 11:09pm #
Smart move and the right price.
Posted 06 Apr 2009 at 7:39pm #
I got both springs replaced including everything for $165. The guy finished the job in 40 minutes. I live in San Francisco bay area.
Posted 08 Apr 2009 at 6:51pm #
This is the second time in 22 years torsion springs broke. This time I started educating myself before I started calling for professional installation.
To be equipped with information prior to calling makes getting quotes more accurate and cheaper:
-size of the door
-if wooden, how many panels
-length of each spring (add the lengths of the two portions of the broken spring)
-look for the first three numbers written on the spring (representing the size of the wire used in making the spring, my example was 262)
-replacing just one spring is about $40.00 cheaper than both at one time (not worth it, as the other is going to snap in 1-2 months later)
-the gentleman came, confirmed the measurements and is expected to come back tomorrow to install
-price quoted $160.00 for both springs (in Gwinnett County, outside Atlanta)
-when finished and if satisfied, I'll post his name and phone after job done
Posted 11 Apr 2009 at 4:49pm #
Mr Pashi, for someone to have to come out to your house, measure and then come back the next day sounds like they do this part time. Any true Door company will have the necessary parts to do the job the first trip out, and not waste your valuable time. I would be interested in who you used because I live in the same county as yourself. There are several companies in your area that could provide better service than that. Good Luck!!!!
Posted 12 Apr 2009 at 10:19am #
Yes, the young gentleman (Jeremy 678-591-14420, in an Atlanta suburb) came the next day and installed the springs. I guess because this man is a small outfit, I got a more personal, cheap and satisfactory job. I didn't mind him coming back the next day ("wasting my valuable time", as Tate says in his above response) with the right spring size.
Being that Tate brought up the aspect of "Any true Door company" would have done the job right on the first trip: I have to mention that I called all those top names (with catchy "Garage door specialists") first, and got intimidated with their scared tactics that they were the only ones who know how this should be done properly, but with loafty prices. A few would not even quote an approx. price. But when I contacted this young man, who had only a one line address in the yellow pages, he not only quoted me a price from the gross dimensions I gave, came out to on his way to another job to verify. He also did not charge extra for the heavier gauge spring required.
The net is full of examples of how unsuspecting and naive people have been ripped of simple repairs. I thought of using this forum to benefit others. Thanks.
Posted 12 Apr 2009 at 6:56pm #
Mr. Pashi, sounds like you got a great job at a fair price. Glad to hear it. Just sounded like you had a part timer on your hands. Agreed, companies that won't quote you a price over the phone for a simple spring job, have something to hide. You can also go to the better business bureau for a listing of good companies. Just beware of the smaller company warranties and limits of liability. They sometimes don't have the insurance to cover the mistakes that can be made from time to time!!! Have seen and heard about some crazy ones!!! Good Luck, you found a needle in a haystack!!!
Posted 12 Apr 2009 at 11:15am #
rj1627 is the typical customer, he even says that he thought its was such a small fee for something like that. Why dont all you scum bag garage door companies go work for a company or Mc donalds for that matter, and make french fries. You people are losers who dont know how to run a business, your more concerned with showing or proving to people you can do a spring change, whippie doo, you better start thinking of your future, before you get old and sick, you wont have a pot to piss in to pay your bills then and will regret what your writing and charging today. Ok you win the prize on how low you can charge, now go out and start experience charging people before its too late, and Im not talking about five more dollars either, Im talking 5 to 7 hundred for springs, use your damn head that god has giving you and charge you idiots. I know your probably gonna say knowone pays that for springs, well I have been doing this for more then 24 yrs. and I had more probem customers when I charged low prices, trust me it works, and thats what they expect to pay, your just giving away you labor you saps.
Posted 12 Apr 2009 at 1:22pm #
A.H, Rectom, Mr. T, or whatever your name is; If you are so busy installing, repairing, and replacing springs at such an exorbitant fee, and making them "like it," how do you find the time to try to be funny on the p.c?
WD
Posted 12 Apr 2009 at 1:58pm #
In my city you would be run out of town if you tried charging 5 to 7 hundred for a spring change that others charge $195.00 for. Ripping people off is bad bussiness any way you look at it. When the customer figures out he has been had, you will be the one who suffers Mr. Rectom. Please people shop and compare.
Posted 12 Apr 2009 at 2:11pm #
ewhhhhhhhhhh "please people shop and compare" like people are even reading this. Like you are a concerned person, you make me sick. The reason i am able to sit here and write this, Mr. Wade or whoever you are, is that I charge enough to hire people and not have to do the work myself. Your just a bum, who thinks people care about what your saying, get a life you idiot, knowone cares. Your probably an oaky from mascoaky, and think 150 dollars is all the money in the world, my minimum service charge is higher then your springchanges. I reset cabes for 389.00. You bums are spinning your wheels. Im retiring this yr. with over 4 million in the bank, I will be recieving approx 36 thousand in dividened each month on my money, and you poor bastards will still be doing frigging springchanges for nothing . Think of me floating in warm tropical water somewhere with my colorful drink in my hand with a little umbrella covering the drink and a orange slice, while your hands are all greasy, and you have to ring a strangers door bell and talk to them when really they dont want you anywhere near there house. ewhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. Im glad i made it through this business and now im out because you people today are real idiots.
Posted 12 Apr 2009 at 2:16pm #
Posted 12 Apr 2009 at 2:21pm #
you could get springs, gold,green, whites, yellow, any spring for about 8 to 10 dollars each, from wayne dalton and other places if you buy in quantity, but you are just a one man show and cant afford to buy them that way because your a bum and dont charge enough thats why these suppliers charge you the highest price, because they here what comes out of your mouth and know your a bum so they charge you more, I pay those prices and have for yrs. and everyone I know in the business does too. The only ones that get charged more are bums like you because thats the only way these companies will sell to you bums. hahahahahhhahahhahhaahhahaahaha
Posted 12 Apr 2009 at 2:38pm #
Wow, Mr Rectom you are so helpful! Wayne Dalton sells springs?
I'm so glad to hear that. Maybe Clopay, Raynor and Amarr sell springs too. I never would have thought of that. I just thought they sold Garage Doors.
Posted 12 Apr 2009 at 7:33pm #
hey mr big bob the loser, then why did you ask me where I got springs for 8-9 dollars, freak.
Posted 12 Apr 2009 at 8:24pm #
All you legit door companies! This A.H. is getting his jollies by trying to rile the rest of us. He don't get his springs for 8 or 9 dollars, unless they come from China. If he is legit, he gets them the same places as the rest of us. Either a door company, or Iowa spring, or one of the others. It may figure out to about 7 to 10 bucks, if you buy snakes and cone them. As for the prices he says he charges, -----Can't be real! He would have to be servicing people in his own community--- I don't have to tell you where these people are! Ignore him, and he will get tired and go away! (It would be my guess the door companies got tired of him and won't sell to him!)
Posted 12 Apr 2009 at 10:27pm #
Hey warren you freak, I buy my springs coned, and I by 2 or 3 hundred at a time. Thats what I pay and theres no way for me to prove to you what I charge because you would tell the customers they paid too much, thats the trailer trash mentality you have I could tell. I could care less about you freaks, all Im trying to say is you losers have ruined this industry and charge less then what my old boss charged in the 70s. Its time to get a life, i bet you do your own oil changes and tune ups on your car too right. I could smell a scumbag a mile away. Have fun going into debt, Im retiring in a few months you suckers. Waste your life doing it for nothing, it doesnt bother me anymore, I just wanted to tell you people that since I have heard this stuff so long it makes me sick. barffffffffff
Maybe I get these prices from the manufactures because I pay my bills with them on time, they tell my Im one of the only one that does, so as far as them not selling to me, WRONGGGGGGGGG, they love me.
Posted 18 Apr 2009 at 10:46am #
I just paid $198 for both springs (in Michigan) and it took the guy 40 minutes to install.
Posted 18 Apr 2009 at 9:33pm #
I just had my springs replaced today. They came out and quoted me about $350 for both. But I told them I called around and got a bid for $195 for both, so they came down to $200 complete for both springs. So they will negotiate on price so don't be afraid to try. And yes, the bigger the yellow page ad the higher the bid was. And don't let them try to talk longer warranty cost more. My last springs lasted 11 years and they were the lowest warranty and cheapest. And NEVER pay for trip fees for an estimate, that's just plain wrong!!!
Posted 25 Apr 2009 at 12:13pm #
An excellent site for checking out door companies is http://www.ripoffreport.com. Rectom, if you enter your company name there I think you'll discover what customers really think of your service.
Posted 25 Apr 2009 at 11:14pm #
I just came back from the "Rip Off Report" that Mr. Musick refered to. I was amazed at the prices some of these companies were able to charge, because people assumed they were legit because of the large ads. Then when presented the bill, went into shock! I noticed that most of these companies had the same name, but no one knew who the owners were. What are the bets Mr A.H. Rectom is involved?
Posted 26 Apr 2009 at 2:01pm #
You guys must be friendless losers to be sitting on here writing back and fourth. Mc Donalds are hiring if you have nothing to do. As for ripoff.com or whatever that your talking about, all my customers love me. And for the phrase that when customers found out they were shocked, your such a loser to say they werent legit,as if you guys are. They have webber bar b qs on sale why dont you go down there and pick one up you trailer trash people.
Posted 26 Apr 2009 at 3:18pm #
Yep, that site helps with the cartoon type yellow page ad companies you see in the phone book. They are all one company and don't have an office for you to go see them face to face. Do business with a company that you can go and complain to if there is an issue.
Posted 27 Apr 2009 at 11:46am #
innercore, A.H, rectom, or whatever you really are;
Talk about " the pot calling the kettle black," How do you find the time to make such ridiculous statements? You give mention to McDonalds so much, I figure you must be a manager of one, because you sure don't seem to know much about the garage door business!
Posted 11 May 2009 at 12:58pm #
I find the people funny who think $350 to $400 is too much. Keep getting the sub-$200 people to replace your springs....I saw every 4-7 years in some of these posts that that is what they last. You should get 20 years out of torsion springs...unless they are used, wrong size, or just cheap imports. I figure by the time you finally call me and I rack up the cost of all the parts you blew out with cheap springs it will be about $500 to $600 from me and another $1000 you wasted. Sorry but that is a fact. Last week I had to put up two springs, 2 drums, a gear kit for the opener and a center bearing for a guy who had spent $185 every 3 or 4 years for 12 years getting the same cheap single spring on a double door. Single springs on big doors wear the drums, his plastic bushing was trashed, and the crappy weak springs tore his opener gear out. He thought the $550 I charged was too much. I told him call the other guy...I am sure he will up his price with additional needed parts and he can call me back in another 3 years to fix the spring again. All told with my charge he spent $1295 on his door. When I was done with 2 springs, steel bearing, drums, gear, aligned the door (aligning doors correctly fixes a lot of problems), and correctly reset the springs I got the comments I usually get. "Wow! This door has never been this smooth. I can't believe it."
Buy a door for $600? Go ahead. Get that cheap crap. The builders buy the same door for $350. You get what you pay for. Sunday I had 2 houses...one 3 years old and the other a year and a half...I put a new door in the 3 year old one...cheap Clopay door...and rebuilt the spring system on the other. Why? Because as Americans you think price is not relevant. You want a McD burger you get a bad burger. Want a steak burger...go somewhere nice. Same goes for doors. When we quote doors we give options...but everyone gets the cheapest. Yes it is better than what they already have...cheap 26 gauge, single spring, .50 cent rollers, and plastic bushings is what we tear out...but for a really good door pay the extra $200 for a 24 gauge door with upgraded hardware.
I find it funny that people are willing to pay $800-$1600 for a front door that is 3ft. by 7.5 ft. but want to buy a 16ft. by 7ft. steel door for $500 that weighs almost 200lbs. and goes over your head!?
Fix the springs yourself please...I love that. After 14 years I have run into so many people who have destroyed their door worse than it was when it broke. And yes...I have seen blood on the floor when someone does something stupid. They may not kill you but I have seen enough stitches in people's faces and hands to know that they will hurt you.
Best comment from customer after $600 worth of work and 3 hours of replacing a ton of parts and undoing all the bad work done over 2 years. "Holy crap! You actually fixed my door!" She was stunned. She had never heard the opener run before because the door was so messed up. Some schmuck told her that she needed a new opener...she got a 3/4 chain drive for $450 installed. If she had called me first...she wouldn't have needed the opener replaced because the door was the problem.
You can pay what you think is right $200, $300, $400, $1000...doesn't matter to me. You will know the difference when I leave and you will not only be thoroughly pleased...you will tell your friends. It's not the money that matters...it is who does the work. And I do the same quality work no matter what the price but I too have overhead...gas, oil changes, parts, nuts and bolts, mortgage, and food for me and the family. I don't do it for free.
Posted 11 May 2009 at 6:08pm #
See theres another guy like me, the spring guy. Hes not afraid to charge, he sounds like me. All you other losers dont belong in the business, its about the money you idiots. You seem to think people care that you could wind a spring, they dont. Change you numbers, its a numbers game, and make some money. Watch how your life changes from trailer trash to a rich guy. You probably charge so low because you cant believe the customers using you in the first place. I understand if you feel your a loser and cant charge anyone. Im glad im retiring and dont have to deal with losers like you anymore, Im glad the spring guy confirmed my last emails and charges high too. I was beginning to think all garage door people were losers. Right on spring guy, maybe I know you.
Posted 11 May 2009 at 9:48pm #
I don't know where you buy your springs, but saying they should last twenty years is a stretch. You would have to put .306 wire on a door that took .262 to make them last twenty years. 10 years is the life expectancy for today's doors. As far as pricing, charge whatever you want. The marketplace will determine if you stay in business or not.
Posted 11 May 2009 at 10:32pm #
Ten years with AVERAGE usage! More accurately, roughly 10,000 cycles. I've changed standarad 10,000 cycle springs with hi-cycle springs because some people use their doors a dozen times or more a day. They will only last a couple of years with that much usage. Thats why no one guarantees how long a spring will last.
As far as wrong springs causing problems with the opener, that much is true! But, if the door "balances," the opener will only over work if the door needs attention in the area of rollers, bearings, or alignment, and I also, have been called to "fix" a door that someone had just repaired, and didn't operate properly. Occassionaly someone is in the field who hasn't been properly trained!
I still only charge a fair price for the work done. I don't try to make the weeks income off one job!
Posted 12 May 2009 at 1:56pm #
This warren guy is a fucking idiot, and for saying your price will determine if you stay in business, your scum, its the other way around, if you charge too low and you and you get sick or injured or business slows down you cant pay your bills, if you charge high you can weather the storms, havent you ever heard the saying save for a rainy day you idiot. Like I said before, go back to Mc Donalds and make french fries.
Posted 12 May 2009 at 2:37pm #
A.H. Rectom! The want- to- be door company! The French Fry cooker at McDonalds! Ha Ha Ha!
Posted 12 May 2009 at 3:52pm #
Gentlemen,
For some of us consumers, we're using the courtesy of Web to inquire/post their needs/experiences. Within the framework of decency, where different opinions are not only health, but expected, indecent verbage is uncalled for and only adds to distaste, not to participate.
From the repeated posts of Warren, Tate & Rectom, one can definitely see a conflict of interest that they have to "earn a living". But please understand gentlemen, its the consumer who pays for your "living", whether you you earned it or not. Let us victims use blogs like this, to ask and/or educate themselves; than get disgusted with your selfishness in trade or service, let alone using poor language to convince the other.
Posted 12 May 2009 at 6:53pm #
Joe, You are totally correct! I admit, my taking this guys slanderous remarks remarks personally, and that he has been attacking the whole industry has led me to get off course. I'll not feed his ego any longer, and I apologize to any and all I may have offended. Thank you, Joe, for your post. It made me more aware of what is going on here!
Posted 12 May 2009 at 8:10pm #
Yep, I'm outta here, this has turned into a soap opera!! Good Luck Everyone!!
Posted 13 May 2009 at 11:28am #
Warren and Tate are being very honorable to users of this blog. Thank you
This though should not mean that you both totally pull out and not let your civic duty help others with your skill.
Sometimes we all want to help without getting paid or receive acknowledgment. Thats what makes us Americans who we are (or ought-to-be)
Cheers
Posted 29 May 2009 at 2:26am #
I'm not sure if I overpaid today on my spring replacement. The total job cost me $370 + a $20 tip. I had Hope Depot install a new insulated garage door 2 years ago, according to my repairman they used the wrong springs for the job. The new springs he used were a lot heavier and thicker. The drums he replaced were bigger too. He showed me the cheap plastic brackets that Home Depot used and replace them with stronger metal ones. I bent the rail to my screw drive garage door opener by using it while the spring was broken. He reinforced my garage door opener for free. It took him about 1 1/2 hours to do the job.
Posted 29 May 2009 at 10:59am #
I can't say if you paid too much, as I don't know your locality, but as far as the springs being the wrong ones depends on if the door balanced properly before a spring broke. How much is your door used? If your door has normal, or average use, the springs should last approximately 10,000 cycles. If they broke pre maturely, probably were of foreign origin, or defective material. As far as the drums are concerned, were they a larger diameter, or width? With a larger diameter, you would need a heavier spring. Would also take fewer turns to balance the door. As for the plastic bracket, I can't figure what you are refering to. There is a nylon bushing that most garage door mfgr's use on the torsion tube/spring, nothing wrong with that! Home Depot, as well as other box stores, don't make, only sell, garage doors. They have no control over what is in the box it comes in. Consumers, who are usually mostly concerned about the price, have very little to no knowledge of how to install a garage door. They figure they can save money buying it themselves, and do-it-yourself, or hire a proffessional to install it. It usually costs more in the long run, than to buy it from a local garage door company, and have someone with knowledge of the product.
I take issue with the gdo. A lot of times the owner is not informed, or if self installed, don't realize how important it is to set the up and down sensitivity to where it takes very little effort to stop the movement of the door. The less sensitive it is set, the more chance your door or opener will be damaged if a spring breaks or something stops the movement of the door. Also, ALWAYS remove any lock attached to the door when you install an operator. The operator IS the lock. With most operators, the door can't be manually opened if the operator is properly installed, without releasing the trolley from the rail.
I believe you got what you paid for, if it truly needed everything he did. The consumer isn't expected to know what part is right for their door, and can only go by what the service man tells them. That is why it is important to check and find out if the company is legitimate, before you hire them. If they have been around a while, or no bad reports from the bbb, they are usually OK!
Posted 30 May 2009 at 1:40am #
I have been around a lot of years, and have been asked to repair a door system I have never seen before. I believe he will buy a new door, but this has aroused my curiosity. The door is made up of two 4' by 7' peices, an angle iron at the top and bottom, and a short bracket at 3 1/2' feet from the bottom. All hardware is mounted on the inside of the door. The two panels have about a 1/4 gap between, from top to bottom. There is a 3 1/2" iron drum with roller bearings, and bushings betweem shaft and bearing. This shaft is stationary, and the spring is attached to the drum and anchor bracket. The drum is situated in the center, top of the door and the cable lays in the afore mentioned grove, and attaches to the bottom of the door, and to the header. The one peice door pivots on side brackets similiar to other one piece doors. The spring is of a flat wire, rather than round, and is 1 inch, or maybe 1 1/4 diameter, and has a special bend in the end of it to attach to the drum, and anchor. I didn't measure it. I figure this door is from the late 30's or 40's. Can anyone tell me the manufacture of this hardware, or if any of it is available today?
Posted 25 Jun 2009 at 1:55pm #
15 years ago I replaced my garage door torsion spring. Without any knowleged of how to do it, just my handy man instinct. I was able to do the job, not after some miserable mistake that may have seriously injured may self or worse. Now after 15 years the same spring broke. With may experieced of doing it and learning more on the web I could have easily replaced safely. But my garage door need replacement anyway. The lowest it has been estimated including everything (opener etc.) on 2 door with 103 " x 80" size is $2400.00. Do not attempt to install the torsion spring if you don't have enough knowledge it's so scary what i have experienced. If you do, the web have enough instruction to be followed so you can do it safely. Good luck!
Posted 26 Jun 2009 at 4:51pm #
look at the way this last idiot spelled his words, talk about trailer trash. coyotet,, Im embarrassed to be affilliated with this business with people like this
Posted 27 Jun 2009 at 10:43am #
I was very happy to leave it to the professionals. They come out a half hour after we called (on a Saturday no less). Both springs were replaced in about 20 minutes. I have a three year warranty on parts and one year on labor. It cost me $225. In my mind, that's money very well spent.
Posted 28 Jun 2009 at 9:51pm #
Jules,
For an "after hours" call, I would say you did very well. Sounds like you found a "humanitarian" who does his job like it should be done, and is trying to establish, or maintain a customer base. These are the contractors you don't mind refering to your friends!
WD
Posted 28 Jun 2009 at 10:01pm #
Coyotet, Did you notice the critic about your spelling, doesn't capitalize, and double comma's where should be only one? Talk about "word perfect!"
This will be my last comment to Rectom. I refuse to lower myself to that level "again!"
Posted 30 Jun 2009 at 11:06pm #
I have been sitting here bored reading on this Peyton Place website. Warren, You and a few others offer a lot of good advice, where as Rectum just seems to be in his own little world. To claim he has 4 million in the bank and will retire in warm area sipping dark drinks only tells me he has ripped off a lot of little old ladies & guys and doesn't spend any money. I have been in business 14 years in little resort town in SW Florida enjoying the warm weather, living on the water and sipping dark drinks or white Russian in 1 hand, fishing pole in the other, with my gal next to me, watching the sun set over the beautiful waters of the Gulf of Mexico all without having to rip anyone off. Sure I don't have much money in the bank but all my bills are paid and I and enjoying life. My charge on 2 spring replacement is $155 for 1 and $190 for 2. If a couple rollers are worn out I will throw them in for free. The rollers I use are 11 ball bearing with nylon wheels which are nice and quiet and last a long time.
The companies that charge high dollars in this area are just a one time shot. They will get no more work from that person and will be blackballed by everyone that person will tell, believe me. I have seen many companies go out of business in very short time...People are not stupid like some of you guys think. I don't even have ad in phone book or a website, all word of mouth, which can make or break you...High pricing WILL break you unless you are dealing with a bunch of retards with the mind of an 8 year old....Ok let me say 3 year old, because my 8 year old knows better. I think they are just trying to make themselves look good because none of us know them and if we did they probably have part time job at Mickie D's or Walmart.
Good luck to all of you who charge fair prices and treat people right...It all pays in the end!!! Sure we may not get rich real fast but at least we sleep well at night.
God Bless!
Posted 01 Jul 2009 at 12:22pm #
first of all mr. doorguy, let me start off by telling you I have been in business almost 30 yrs, I was trained by the guy who invented the roll up sectional garage door, I spend almost 40 thousand a month on yellow page advertisement, I cant believe youi can sit here and compare yourself to what I do, your just a hippie freelacer or moonlighter who sits around hoping someone calls you. I have more repeat customers then new ones for you info,and they all love me. Knowone thinks they pay too high unless losers like you tell them. You can say that about any business if theres some idiot out there telling people they have been overcharged or ripped off then the customer will feel that way know matter how much you have charged them. You dont deserve a job at Mc donalds you better go to Arbys or fish and chips with the way you do business. Your a typical idiot and you just proved my point even more so.
Posted 01 Jul 2009 at 10:19pm #
Rectum
I'm sorry this is not me, Your way of expressing yourself brings out the worst of me and others, Fer sure dude! See Ya on the flip side, JERK 
! Oh by the way who invented the roll up sectional door, you seem to frigging know it all...It would just save me the time to look it up. I learned from a gentleman who started his company, in Tampa, in 1949. Done with YOU!
You got way too much time on your hands, Sport. To call me a loser.. You have to be a fool to spend $40,000 a month on yellow page ads, I have to ask myself, who here is the loser.I spend $39.00 a month on my yellow page ad and I am busy from 8am till 7pm...6 days a week, live on the water enjoying the hell out of my life. You on the other hand sit in front of your computer putting down everyone else just to make up for your total lack of character. Here in my neck of the woods a full page ad cost $1000. Don't know where you the hell you are but you have got to have a ton of guys working for you, overcharging every customer just to pay for your ads not to mention workers comp, health insurance, liability ins, truck payments, mortgage on building, parts, phones, electric and etc before you put any money in your pocket. You must really take us all for fools.
Furthermore to call me a hippie freelancer or moonlighter just goes to show that you must have some type of problem with other door companies that charge a decent price for a great job and still have everything they want in life...Of course I am speaking for myself, don't want to try and understand what others want in life like you have everything figured out.. You don't stay in business in a small town like mine charging your prices. People call all the time to get quotes over the phone and are shocked at my service rates, yours they would pass out. I have more repeat business than any of the large companies around here. 90% of my work is word of mouth. Omega Garage Doors is the largest around here, in business since 1968 and I do better than them...In fact they are my best customer. I am always getting referrals from them when people in my town need service.
And I for one, just like Warren said, am not going to stoop any further to your level and will not comment any more to the likes of you. Get a life. I thought this forum was to help others out with good advice. You have chosen it to vent your frustrations with your life. I think that if I was as miserable as you, stalking this website seeing who you can bring down to your level, I think I'd shoot myself in the head and put us all out of our misery!
Posted 02 Jul 2009 at 1:31am #
Please, folks. Leave Rectom alone! The more you scratch it, the more it itches!
Posted 02 Jul 2009 at 1:06pm #
Warren,
I'm done scratching..Said what I wanted to say...Done with him.
But if you go back to his very first letter he came on like a bandsaw cutting everyone down, calling us scumbags and that we shouldn't reproduce and go back to McDonalds. He has a problem and I will refuse to get a pissing contest with him. But mark my words, He is the kind of person who can't give up. He enjoys degrading others and I feel sorry for him. Don't know what makes him feel so bitter. Well done with lunch..Back to work.
Sorry Rectom...You started it all..Why so bitter?
Posted 02 Jul 2009 at 2:53pm #
you live in a small town and you work 6 days a week and are overloaded with a 39 dollar ad, give me a break, even if you got every call from your little 39 dollar ad, you wouldnt be busy,how many calls do you get, 1 or 2 a week, hahahahhahhahhahahhhahahhaa. Im not misrable at all I feel so good that Im not going to have to deal with people like you anymore because im getting out, Ta Ta freak
Posted 02 Jul 2009 at 2:55pm #
Another thing you mentioned all the expenses I must have if I spend 40 thousand a month, your exactly right, thats why I know what prices should be charged out there,and your just a bum who doesnt pay anything and drives around in a broken down truck, loser.
Posted 02 Jul 2009 at 4:29pm #
Door Guy
Yeah, I know how he came on, and I fed his ego myself, and I'm sorry for that. But now it's time to move on and TRY to forget there are people like that in our industry. Reminds me of the siding sales people back in the 60's and 70's, selling a job, get a down payment, and move on without doing the job. Made it hard for the legit contractors to get work. A lot had to do the job before getting any money. Even then, there were some who wouldn't pay for their materials, and the owner would find a lein against their property. I believe there are "hit and run" people in our trade also. Just do the best job you can, for a fair price, and you will do all right. Treat your customer right, he will remember you, and refer you! I can't tell you how many customers I have had that wouldn't call the installer back just because he was rude, unprofessional, or not knowledgeable of his product, or just didn't make his customer feel comfortable with him. I've been paid for service calls that the original installer should have made right, but the customer didn't feel comfortable with him. --- Didn't want him back on his place! WD
Posted 04 Jul 2009 at 1:00am #
Amen Warren, I've always do a good job, fair price and show up when I say verses many that keep customer waiting or don't even show up then proceed to charge them astronomical prices. I have heard horror stories what people have been charged. Some repairs I feel guilty charging but I have bills to pay and tried to tell them how to fix it over the phone but still want me to come out. I have several calls every week that I tell them how to fix the problem over the phone. Sure I don't make any money that way but referrals I get pays many times over. In this retirement town word gets around very fast, especially bad words. I never get money upfront to install doors...Makes customer feel better knowing that they gave someone money and may never see them again or spent money for other things. Many are on fixed incomes, need work done but can't pay. I will always work something out or pay me when they can...Again word gets around and have never been shafted.
I do apologize for getting in pissing contest with you know who. Sometimes I like to egg people on it takes away from the everyday boredom but to you and others, again I apologize. That is not me!! I'm always here to help.
FM
Posted 04 Jul 2009 at 1:41am #
Door Guy, I had the same problem, as did Tate. I guess we felt we had to defend ALL the ligitimate garage door people, inclding ourselves. Joe Pashi brought it to our attention that we were as bad as the other party, by feeding his ego. Just kept fueling the onslaught! I am ashamed to have been a party to it, but will continue to give good advice when I am able.
I wasn't taught by anyone. I saw a need to start a garage door company, observed, went to a couple of Martin's seminars while installing doors in buildings I built, and learned to solve problems myself because I had no one to call on to learn from. I moved to Portland, Or. and started a door company, and REALLY got an education! When you learn by doing, and solving your own problems, and most of them were "common sense" issues, you don't forget!
Most of my business comes from "word of mouth" and repeat costomers. I have a website, but have found that more people call from yellow pages than the website.
WD
Posted 04 Jul 2009 at 1:44pm #
Hey mr. FM, arent you the same guy who says you work from 6 am until 7 pm six days a week, then why would you have to get into pissing matches because it takes away from bordem. All you people really sit here and believe that anyone is listening to you, your all weirdos who are probably born again holly rollers and dont know how to deal with everyday living. And the other guy who says he worked or learned from Martin doors, barffffffffffff knowonder your the way you are, tell Ken Martin hes full of shit too, what a shitty product that Martin crap is. barfffffffffffffffffff again