How quickly can you come for an emergency repair?

We offer 24/7 emergency garage door service throughout South San Francisco and the Bay Area. In most cases, we can have a certified technician at your location within 1-2 hours of your call. We understand that a broken garage door is a safety and security issue, which is why we prioritize emergency calls. Our fully-stocked service vehicles allow us to complete most repairs on the first visit, getting your door working again as quickly as possible.

How much does a garage door repair cost?

The cost of garage door repair varies depending on the type of repair needed. Simple repairs like sensor adjustments or track realignments typically start around $89-$150. Spring replacements generally range from $150-$350 depending on the spring type and size. More complex repairs involving the door itself or opener mechanisms may cost $200-$500+. We always provide a free, upfront estimate before any work begins, so you'll never be surprised by the bill. We also offer financing options for larger repairs or new door installations.

Do you offer warranties on your work?

Yes! We stand behind all our work with comprehensive warranties. Labor is covered for 1 year on all repairs. Springs come with a lifetime warranty on parts (based on manufacturer specifications). New garage door installations include a 5-year warranty on installation and the manufacturer's warranty on the door itself (typically 10-25 years depending on the brand). Opener installations include a 2-year labor warranty plus the manufacturer's warranty. We're confident in our workmanship and want you to have complete peace of mind.

What areas do you serve?

We proudly serve South San Francisco and the greater Bay Area including . Whether you need emergency repairs, a new garage door installation, or routine maintenance, our certified technicians are ready to help. We offer same-day service in most areas and 24/7 emergency response throughout our service territory.

How long does a garage door installation take?

A standard garage door installation typically takes 3-5 hours for a single door and 5-7 hours for a double door. This includes removing the old door, installing the new door and hardware, setting up the opener, and testing all safety features. We complete most installations in a single day, so you can start enjoying your new garage door right away. Complex installations or custom doors may take longer, and we'll provide a time estimate during your consultation.

Should I repair or replace my garage door?

This depends on several factors including the door's age, extent of damage, and your budget. Generally, we recommend repair when the issue is isolated (like a broken spring or sensor problem) and the door is less than 15 years old. Replacement makes more sense when there's significant structural damage, multiple components are failing, or the door lacks modern safety features. During our free inspection, we'll provide honest advice on whether repair or replacement is the better investment for your situation.

When to Replace Your Garage Door Springs: Warning Signs and Solutions

January 8, 2024 7 min read Dave Martinez

Garage door springs are the unsung heroes of your garage door system. These tightly wound metal coils bear the enormous weight of your door, often 200 to 400 pounds, making it possible to open and close with minimal effort. When they fail, however, the results can be dramatic and even dangerous.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs.

Torsion Springs mount horizontally above the garage door opening. They twist to store energy, providing smooth, controlled door movement. Most modern garage doors use torsion springs due to their superior lifespan and safety characteristics.

Extension Springs mount on either side of the door, stretching and contracting as the door moves. While common in older installations, they present more safety concerns if not properly maintained.

Warning Signs Your Springs Need Attention

Recognizing the early warning signs of spring failure can prevent inconvenient breakages and potential safety hazards:

Difficulty Opening the Door: If your door feels heavier than usual or your opener struggles, your springs may be weakening. A properly balanced door should stay in place when opened halfway manually.

Visible Wear and Damage: Look for rust, corrosion, or stretched coils. Any visible damage indicates the spring is nearing the end of its life.

Unusual Sounds: Squeaking, grinding, or popping noises when the door operates often indicate spring problems. While some noise is normal, new or worsening sounds warrant inspection.

Uneven Door Movement: If one side of your door rises faster than the other, you may have a spring imbalance. This puts additional stress on your opener and tracks.

Door Closes Too Fast: Springs provide controlled resistance during closing. If your door slams down, the springs are likely worn or broken.

The Lifespan of Garage Door Springs

Standard torsion springs are rated for approximately 10,000 cycles, one cycle being a complete open and close. For a typical household that opens the door 3-4 times daily, this translates to roughly 7-10 years.

High-cycle springs, rated for 25,000 or even 50,000 cycles, are available for busy households or commercial applications. While more expensive initially, they often prove more economical over time.

Why Professional Repair is Essential

Garage door springs operate under extreme tension, enough force to lift hundreds of pounds. Attempting DIY spring repair has resulted in serious injuries and even fatalities. The dangers include:

- Springs can unwind explosively if improperly handled, Improper installation can lead to door drops, Incorrect spring sizing causes premature failure, DIY repairs often void warranties

Our certified technicians have specialized tools and training to safely replace springs, ensuring proper tension and long service life.

Preventive Maintenance

While springs will eventually wear out, proper maintenance extends their life significantly:

- Regular lubrication (3-4 times yearly) - Visual inspections for rust and wear, Prompt attention to unusual sounds, Professional tune-ups annually

Don't wait for a spring emergency. Contact us to schedule a spring inspection and ensure your garage door operates safely and reliably.

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