Your Ultimate Handbook to Understanding Garage Doors

Torsion spring lift mechanism

A torsion spring counterbalance system consists of one or two tightly wound-up springs on a steel shaft with cable drums at both ends. The apparatus mounts on the header wall above the garage door and has three supports: a center bearing plate with a steel or nylon bearing and two end bearing plates at both ends. The springs consist of a steel wire with a stationary cone at one end and a winding cone at the other. The stationary cone is attached to the center bearing plate. The winding cone consists of holes every 90 degrees for winding the springs and two set screws to secure the springs to the shaft. Steel counterbalance cables run from the roller brackets at the bottom corners of the door to a notch in the cable drums. When the door is raised, the springs unwind, and the stored tension lifts the door by turning the shaft, thus turning the cable drums and wrapping the cables around the grooves on the cable drums. When the door is lowered, the cables unwrap from the drums, and the springs are rewound to full tension.

Knowing Your Garage Door

Garage doors are an essential part of your home, providing security, convenience, and visual appeal. They come in various styles, including sectional doors, and are made from various materials such as wood, steel, and aluminum.

Different Garage Door Styles

• Sectional Doors: Composed of several panels that are connected with hinges. As the door opens and closes, wheels at the edge of each panel roll inside a vertical track on each side of the door opening.


• Rolling Steel Doors: These doors roll up into a single coil when lifted. They are typically used in commercial applications but are becoming more popular in residential settings due to their durability and compact operation.


• Side Sliding Doors: As the name suggests, these doors bend to one side of the garage and sit parallel to the wall, useful for garages with limited headroom.

Choosing the Right Material

Dealing with Garage Door Troubles

Prior to professional consultation, it’s helpful to diagnose common issues yourself. Here are some typical problems and simple fixes you can try:

• Loud Noises: Often this is due to loose hardware, lack of lubrication, or worn rollers. Tighten all nuts and bolts and lubricate moving parts with silicone-based lubricant.


• Door Won't Close: Check if there are obstructions in the track or misaligned sensors. Ensure sensors are clean and correctly aligned.


• Remote Control Issues: Replace the remote’s battery. If the issue persists, reprogram the remote or consult with a technician.

When to Call a Professional

While DIY website can be helpful, certain problems require professional attention. These include snapped cables, severe door damage, and complex mechanical failures. Professional garage door technicians have the tools, skills, and experience to safely and effectively resolve these issues.

Final Thoughts

Understanding your garage door’s operation and common issues can greatly contribute to your home’s safety and functionality. Regular maintenance checks and being aware of when to involve professionals will ensure your garage door remains in top condition, providing peace of mind and security for your family.