When it comes to garage door springs, you’ll hear about two main types: torsion springs and extension springs. Both help lift and lower your garage door, but they work in different ways. Let’s break it down so you know which type your garage door has—or which one you might need!
Torsion Springs
- Mounted above the garage door
- Work by twisting (torsion) to store energy
- Provide smoother, more controlled door movement
- Last longer than extension springs
- Require professional installation and maintenance
Torsion springs are the more durable and reliable option. Because they distribute weight evenly, they help your door move smoother and safer. If you want a longer-lasting spring system, torsion springs are the way to go.
How Torsion Springs Work
Torsion springs operate on a simple yet highly effective mechanical principle. When the garage door closes, the spring coils tighten, storing energy in the process. When you open the door, the stored energy is gradually released, making the door feel much lighter than it actually is. This system is highly effective at maintaining balance and minimizing wear on other garage door components.
Torsion springs require fewer parts than extension springs, which means they often experience less overall wear and tear. Additionally, their placement above the door makes them safer because they are less likely to snap off and cause injury. The biggest advantage of torsion springs is their lifespan—they typically last 15,000 to 20,000 cycles, compared to extension springs, which average around 10,000 cycles.
Common Problems with Torsion Springs
Even though torsion springs last longer, they aren’t indestructible. Over time, they may wear out due to metal fatigue, rust, or poor maintenance. Some of the most common issues include:
- Spring breakage – After thousands of cycles, the spring may eventually snap.
- Uneven door movement – If one spring wears out faster than the other, the door may become unbalanced.
- Loud noises – Squeaking or grinding sounds could indicate a need for lubrication.
- Difficult operation – If the spring loses tension, the door may feel heavier than usual.
If you notice any of these problems, call a professional immediately to prevent further damage or safety hazards.
Extension Springs
- Installed on both sides of the garage door, above the tracks
- Stretch and contract to lift and lower the door
- More affordable but wear out faster
- Can cause sudden, uneven movements if they break
- Require safety cables to prevent accidents
Extension springs are a budget-friendly option but tend to wear out faster. Since they stretch and contract each time the door moves, they put more strain on the system over time. If one breaks, it can snap back with force, which is why safety cables are a must.
How Extension Springs Work
Unlike torsion springs, which twist, extension springs stretch out when the door is lowered and contract when the door is lifted. These springs are typically installed on either side of the door and work together to create balanced movement. Because of their location, they are more prone to sudden breakage, which can result in an unstable or jerky door operation.
One of the major concerns with extension springs is safety. If a spring breaks and there are no safety cables installed, the broken spring could fly across the garage at high speed, causing damage or injury. Safety cables run through the center of each extension spring to help contain any potential breakage.
Common Problems with Extension Springs
Although extension springs are widely used, they come with their own set of issues:
- Uneven door movement – If one spring wears out faster, the door may not lift evenly.
- Snapping sounds – This could indicate an issue with tension or an impending breakage.
- Sudden breakage – These springs are more prone to sudden failure than torsion springs.
- Difficulty in lifting – If the springs lose their stretch, the door may feel significantly heavier.
Since extension springs experience more stress and movement, they typically last between 7,000 and 10,000 cycles, depending on usage. Regular maintenance and timely replacement can help extend their lifespan.
Which One is Right for You?
- Looking for durability and safety? Choose torsion springs.
- On a budget and need a quick fix? Extension springs might work.
- Not sure? It’s always best to ask a professional!
When deciding between torsion and extension springs, consider factors like garage door size, weight, and frequency of use. For heavy or frequently used doors, torsion springs provide the best long-term investment. If your budget is a concern, extension springs may be a more affordable upfront choice, but they may require more frequent replacements.
Comparing Torsion and Extension Springs Side by Side
Feature | Torsion Springs | Extension Springs |
Location | Above the door | Alongside tracks |
Mechanism | Twists to store energy | Stretches to store energy |
Lifespan (cycles) | 15,000 – 20,000 | 7,000 – 10,000 |
Movement Control | Smooth and balanced | Can be jerky |
Cost | Higher upfront cost | Lower initial cost |
Safety | Safer due to contained mechanism | Requires safety cables to prevent accidents |
Maintenance | Less frequent | More frequent |
Maintenance Tips for Garage Door Springs
Regardless of which spring system you have, regular maintenance is essential to keep your garage door working properly. Here are a few tips to extend the lifespan of your springs:
- Lubricate regularly – Apply a silicone-based lubricant every few months.
- Check for wear and tear – Look for gaps, cracks, or rust on the springs.
- Test balance – Manually lift your garage door halfway. If it stays in place, your springs are in good shape.
- Inspect safety cables – If you have extension springs, make sure safety cables are intact.
Schedule professional inspections – A trained technician can spot potential issues before they turn into major problems.
What type of garage door spring is best?
Torsion springs are generally the best choice due to their durability, smooth operation, and longer lifespan compared to extension springs.
What is the difference between torsion springs and extension springs?
Torsion springs twist to store energy and provide balanced movement, while extension springs stretch and contract, which can lead to jerky motion and faster wear.
What are the disadvantages of torsion springs?
Torsion springs have a higher upfront cost and require professional installation, but they last longer and provide better performance overall.
Which is better, extension spring or torsion spring?
Torsion springs are better for long-term reliability and smoother operation, while extension springs are more budget-friendly but require more frequent maintenance and replacements.
Need Garage Door Spring Repair? Call Now!
Broken springs can be dangerous. Whether you need a repair or a full replacement, our team at Rainier Garage Door is here to help. Contact us today at (425) 454-3250! Our experts will ensure your garage door operates safely and efficiently.
