Over time, the heavy-duty springs that lift your garage door start to weaken as they accumulate thousands of open-close cycles. This can make the door increasingly difficult to manually open and close. While full spring replacement is an option, installing additional “helper” springs is a lower-cost way to reinvigorate an aging system without as much hassle. With care taken due to the springs’ torque strength, adding helpers is a feasible DIY project for most homeowners.

Check Existing Springs

First, examine the existing torsion springs mounted above the rails on each side. Look for signs of rust, broken coils, or uneven gaps that indicate weakness. You’ll need at least one usable spring still functioning to support the added weight of helpers. If primary springs cannot be safely used, it’s best to call in a technician from Garage Door Spring Repair in Mechanicsville for a complete overhaul.

Purchase Helper Springs

Helper springs need to match the specifications of the originals, so bring measurements to a home improvement store. Look for options rated slightly below the door’s weight to complement existing springs, not replace them. Securely boxed kits containing pre-wound helpers and mounting brackets are easiest to install.

Mount Helper Brackets

Safety cannot be overemphasized when working with springs under high tension. Only attempt work if comfortable, using appropriate safety gear like glasses. Mount each helper bracket securely to the header wall near an original spring using lag screws long enough to anchor deeply into structural framing members.

Attach Helper Springs

Loop one end of each new spring through its mounting bracket. Attach the other end to its corresponding coil on the existing garage door spring using a short u-bolt and nuts. Gradually crank down nuts in small increments to wind springs as they are installed. This spreads torque between springs evenly.

Adjust Spring Tension

Test the door for balance by manually operating it smoothly up and down. Springs may need their winding position adjusted slightly for perfect counterbalance. Loosen helper nuts slightly and reposition winding as needed, but do not over-tighten spring attachments.

Secure Safety Covers

Refit end brackets and other covers to fully enclose active spring areas once adjusted. Helpers will distribute lifting force and extend the service life of the whole system, solving sagging issues without an expensive call to a company like Garage Door Spring Repair in Mechanicsville. Just be very careful working near springs!