Torsion springs sit on a metal bar above the garage door and twist to lift it. Extension springs run along the horizontal tracks on each side and stretch to lift it. Torsion systems lift more smoothly, put less strain on the door and opener, and are the standard on most newer homes. Extension springs are common on older homes, and both store enough energy to cause serious injury if handled without the right tools.
How to tell which springs you have
Stand inside the garage with the door closed and look at the wall above the door. If you see one or two large coiled springs on a metal shaft, you have torsion springs. If the springs run parallel to the ceiling tracks on the left and right sides, you have extension springs.
How each system works
- Torsion springs wind tighter as the door closes and unwind to help lift it. Cables run from drums on the shaft to the bottom corners of the door.
- Extension springs stretch as the door closes and pull it up as they contract. Pulleys and cables connect them to the door.
Which is better?
For most doors, torsion. The lift is more balanced, the door travels more smoothly, and the opener works less hard. Extension springs cost less up front, but they need safety cables threaded through them so a broken spring can't whip across the garage.
How long do springs last?
A standard spring of either type is rated for about 10,000 cycles. One cycle is the door going up or going down, so opening and closing twice a day is 4 cycles. That works out to roughly 7 years. Opening and closing four or five times a day (8 to 10 cycles) is closer to 3 years. High-cycle springs last longer and are worth it on a door used many times a day.
Converting from extension to torsion
Many homes in older Kansas City neighborhoods still have their original extension springs. Converting to a torsion system is one of the most common upgrades we do: it's quieter, safer and easier on the opener. We size the new springs to your door's weight so it balances correctly.
Don't adjust springs yourself
Winding a torsion spring or unhooking an extension spring takes the right bars and the right spring size. If a spring has broken, stop using the opener and call (816) 301-5209.
Need help with your door?
Call (816) 301-5209 for 24/7 emergency service, or request a free written estimate.