Learn How To Measure Extension Springs

Measuring the extension garage door springs accurately is definitely vital. The smallest mistake might cause complications to the performance of the system since the springs will either fail to stretch properly or will be too loose. A small problem with a slight miscalculation might be solved by simply adjusting the hook of the cable in another hole, but the best thing is to have the exact spring for a specific door. This means that if the current ones do not have a tag or label on them stating their properties, you must measure them yourself and this is not always an easy task.

The best way to measure springs is to remove them first. It's safer and more comfortable, but it's not always easy. Instead of risking your life, you could measure them on the door. Though you must never forget that safety precautions must be taken to ensure that you won't be hurt in any way. You must wear gloves or avoid putting your fingers close to the coils, and you must also wear safety glasses and avoid too loose clothes.

The right measurement technique

The length of the garage door springs must be measured with the coils compressed. Consequently, the door must be open and the electric operator both unplugged and disconnected. For greater safety, put clamps in the tracks to ensure that the door will stay up. Measure the length starting from one end of the coils to the other and exclude the end parts. If the spring is broken, measure one part first and continue with the second.

Use a tape measure when you want to determine the inside diameter. You must measure the exact distance from one end of the inner coil to the other. It's also significant to measure the wire size and since this is a very difficult task but at the same time a crucial step in order to order the right overhead door springs, you should count twenty coils together and divide that number with the inches they measure. For example, if 20 coils make 5 inches, divide 5 with 20. The wire size is .250. You should also pay attention to the end parts of the spring and see if you need double closed or open hooks or clips. Of course, if you find all this procedure impossible, you can just order the new springs with the weight, height and width of the overhead door but you must also mention which end parts you use.