What Garage Door Springs Actually Do
Garage door springs counterbalance the weight of the door, making it possible to lift a heavy panel — often weighing 150 kg or more — with minimal effort. Without functioning springs, your garage door opener motor would strain to move the door at all, and manual operation would be nearly impossible.
Springs store mechanical energy when the door closes and release it when the door opens. This is why a broken spring often means a door that won't budge, or one that slams shut dangerously fast.
Torsion Springs vs. Extension Springs
Most modern residential garage doors use one of two spring systems:
- Torsion springs are mounted horizontally on a metal shaft directly above the door opening. They twist to store energy and are generally considered safer, longer-lasting, and smoother in operation. They're the standard choice for new installations today.
- Extension springs run along the horizontal tracks on either side of the door. They stretch to provide lifting force. These are more common on older doors and are typically less expensive, but they lack the safety containment of a torsion shaft system.
How Long Do Springs Last?
Garage door springs are rated in cycles — one cycle being a full open-and-close. Standard springs are often rated for around 10,000 cycles, which translates to roughly 7–10 years of typical use. High-cycle springs can last significantly longer. If your door sees heavy daily use, spring life shortens accordingly.
Signs of a Failing or Broken Spring
- A loud bang from the garage — often the sound of a spring snapping under tension.
- The door feels unusually heavy when you try to lift it manually.
- The door opens a few inches and then stops, or opens unevenly.
- A visible gap in the torsion spring coil above the door.
- Cables that appear loose or have come off the drum.
Why You Shouldn't DIY Spring Repair
Garage door springs are under extreme tension. A sudden release can cause serious injury. Torsion spring replacement requires specialised winding bars and precise calibration. Unless you have specific training and the right tools, this is a job best left to a qualified professional.
Choosing Replacement Springs
When springs do need replacing, it's wise to upgrade to high-cycle springs if your budget allows. Always replace both springs at the same time — if one has failed, the other is likely near the end of its life too. Matching spring specifications to your door's weight and dimensions is critical for safe, balanced operation.