2025-12-28 5 min read
# Garage Door Spring Types Explained: Torsion vs Extension
Springs are the unsung heroes of your garage door system, bearing the door's weight and making it possible to open with minimal effort. Understanding the two main types helps you make informed decisions about repairs and know what to expect from your system.
Your garage door can weigh 150-400+ pounds, yet you can lift it with one hand thanks to springs. They store energy when the door closes and release it when opening, counterbalancing the door's weight.
Torsion springs mount horizontally above the garage door opening. When the door closes, cables attached to the bottom corners wind the spring, storing energy. Opening the door releases this stored energy.
- Longer lifespan: Typically 15,000-20,000 cycles vs. 10,000 for extension springs - Smoother operation: More controlled, balanced movement - Better balance: Less wear on opener and hardware - Safer: Contained design means less risk if they break
- Higher initial cost: More expensive springs and installation - Complex repair: Always requires professional service
Extension springs mount on either side of the door, parallel to the horizontal tracks. They stretch (extend) when the door closes and contract when it opens.
- Lower initial cost: Less expensive springs and simpler installation - Easier to find parts: More common in older systems - DIY-friendly inspection: Easier to visually check condition
- Shorter lifespan: More cycles means more frequent replacement - Safety concerns: Can fly if they break (safety cables are essential) - More parts to wear: Additional components like pulleys and cables
Never attempt spring repairs yourself. Both spring types are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury or death if mishandled. Always call a professional for any spring-related work.
Even if not broken, consider replacing springs that have reached their cycle limit or show significant wear.
Whether your door uses torsion or extension springs, understanding how they work helps you maintain your system and communicate effectively with technicians. At Garage Door Masonville, our experts can assess your springs and recommend the best solutions for your situation.
Schedule a safety inspection today.don't wait for a spring to break!
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