Identifying Broke Torsion Springs on Your Commercial Doors
As a business owner, the proper functioning of your commercial doors is crucial for maintaining a safe and accessible environment for your customers and employees. One of the most critical components of your commercial doors are the torsion springs, which play a vital role in the smooth and effortless operation of your doors. Unfortunately, these springs can become damaged over time, leading to a host of issues that can disrupt your business operations. In this blog post, we’ll explore the signs and symptoms of damaged torsion springs, so you can identify the problem and take the necessary steps to address it.
Increased Effort to Open and Close the Doors
One of the most obvious signs of damaged torsion springs is the increased effort required to open and close your commercial doors. Torsion springs are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door, making it easy to operate. When these springs become damaged, the door will feel significantly heavier, requiring more force to move it. This can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous situation, as it can lead to injuries if employees or customers struggle to open or close the doors.
Uneven Door Movement
Another telltale sign of damaged torsion springs is uneven door movement. Healthy torsion springs should provide a smooth, consistent motion when opening and closing the door. However, if one or more of the springs are damaged, the door may move in a jerky or uneven manner, with one side of the door moving faster or slower than the other. This can be a safety hazard, as it increases the risk of the door becoming stuck or slamming shut unexpectedly.
Sagging or Unbalanced Doors
Damaged torsion springs can also cause your commercial doors to sag or become unbalanced. When the springs are functioning correctly, they should evenly distribute the weight of the door, keeping it level and balanced. If the springs are damaged, the door may start to tilt or sag, making it difficult to open and close properly. This can also lead to increased wear and tear on other door components, such as the hinges and rollers, ultimately shortening the lifespan of your commercial doors.
Unusual Noises
As torsion springs begin to wear down or become damaged, they may start to produce unusual noises when the door is operated. These noises can include squeaking, grinding, or popping sounds, which can be an early warning sign of a larger problem. If you notice any unusual noises coming from your commercial doors, it’s important to have them inspected by a professional as soon as possible to identify and address the underlying issue.
Visible Damage or Wear
In some cases, the damage to the torsion springs may be visible to the naked eye. Look for signs of rust, cracks, or other physical damage to the springs. Additionally, if the springs appear to be significantly stretched or deformed, it’s a clear indication that they need to be replaced. Ignoring visible damage to the torsion springs can lead to catastrophic failure, which can be both dangerous and costly to repair.
Addressing Damaged Torsion Springs
If you’ve identified any of the above signs of damaged torsion springs on your commercial doors, it’s important to take action quickly to address the issue. Attempting to repair or replace the springs yourself can be dangerous and may even void the warranty on your doors, so it’s best to contact a professional commercial door repair service.
A qualified technician will be able to properly diagnose the extent of the damage, provide a detailed assessment, and recommend the appropriate course of action. In some cases, the damaged springs may be able to be repaired, while in other instances, they may need to be replaced entirely. Regardless of the solution, it’s crucial to address the problem promptly to ensure the continued safe and reliable operation of your commercial doors.
In conclusion, being able to identify the signs of damaged torsion springs on your commercial doors is essential for maintaining a safe and functional business environment. By staying vigilant and addressing any issues as they arise, you can prolong the life of your doors, avoid costly repairs, and ensure the safety of your customers and employees. Remember, when it comes to the critical components of your commercial doors, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek the expertise of a professional.