Overhead Garage Door Repair — Wisconsin FAQ

Welcome to EZ Overhead Door’s FAQ. Below you’ll find the most commonly asked questions homeowners and businesses in Wisconsin have about garage door repair, maintenance, replacement, and safety.


How much does it cost to replace a garage door spring?

Residential spring replacement typically runs between $200 and $400 for a door that uses torsion springs. Exact cost depends on weight and size of the door, and whether other parts (cables, rollers) need replacement.

Can I replace a torsion spring myself?

No. Torsion springs store a lot of energy and can cause serious injury or death if handled improperly. Always hire a trained technician who carries insurance and the proper tools.

Why won’t my garage door open in cold weather?

Cold can thicken lubricants, stiffen rollers and seals, and cause the bottom seal to stick to icy floors. A pre-winter tune-up can reduce cold-weather failures.

How long do garage door springs last?

Typical springs last several years — often 7–14 years — but lifespan varies based on cycle count (how many times the door opens/closes), environmental exposure, and maintenance. Generally, springs are rated for 10,000 cycles.

Why is my garage door noisy (squeaks, grinding, rattling)?

Common causes include worn rollers, loose hardware, misaligned tracks, or lack of lubrication. A professional tune-up can usually pinpoint and fix the noise quickly.

Why does my garage door reverse when closing or won’t close completely?

This often indicates misaligned or blocked safety sensors, incorrect close-force settings, or issues with cables/tracks. It can also indicate a broken spring. It’s best to call for service to pinpoint the exact cause of the problem so it can be addressed appropriately.

How much does it cost to replace a garage door opener?

Opener replacement generally ranges from about $500 to $800+ depending on model (chain, belt, or screw drive), horsepower, smart features, and installation complexity.

How often should I schedule maintenance or a tune-up?

At minimum once a year; twice a year (spring and pre-winter) is recommended for Wisconsin’s climate and heavier seasonal strains.

If one spring is broken, should I replace both?

Yes — springs are installed and wear as a matched pair. Replacing both at the same time prevents repeat failure shortly after repair.

Will my garage door freeze to the ground and how do I prevent it?

Yes — doors can adhere to wet, frozen floors. Keep the threshold and bottom seal clear of snow/ice, install a quality bottom seal, and avoid forcing the opener when the door is frozen down.

How long does a typical repair take?

Most common repairs (spring, rollers, cables) take 1–2 hours on-site. More complex jobs or ordered parts will extend the timeline.

Why won’t my smart opener connect to Wi‑Fi?

Issues commonly stem from weak home Wi‑Fi signal in the garage, blocked router settings, or firmware mismatches. Check router placement and follow the manufacturer’s troubleshooting steps.

How do I test the safety reverse mechanism?

Place a 2×4 or similar solid object in the door’s path while closing. If the door does not reverse reliably, stop using the door and call a technician immediately.

How much does it cost to replace a single door panel?

Panel replacement costs vary widely by door style, material, and color match. For older or discontinued styles, full door replacement may be more cost-effective than panel repair.

Do I need a permit to replace my garage door in Wisconsin?

Simple like‑for‑like replacements often don’t require structural permits, but changes to headers, openings, or major electrical modifications can. Check your local city or county building department before starting structural work

What are common seasonal maintenance tips for Wisconsin winters?

Clean and inspect the bottom seal, use lubricant on rollers and springs, tighten loose hardware, test the safety reverse and sensors, and schedule a pre-winter professional tune-up.

Are insulated doors worth it in Wisconsin?

Yes — insulation improves temperature control in attached garages, reduces noise, and helps prevent warping or performance issues in extreme cold.