Garage door springs play a critical role in the smooth, safe, and efficient operation of your garage door. While most homeowners never see these components in action, springs are responsible for lifting and lowering hundreds of pounds of door weight with ease. Understanding the two main types of garage door springs, torsion springs and extension springs, can help you make informed decisions about safety, performance, and maintenance.
We explain how each spring type works, their differences, and why choosing the right system matters for your garage door.
What are Garage Door Springs and Why Do They Matter?
Garage door springs counterbalance the weight of the door, making it possible for both manual and automatic systems to function properly. Without springs, garage doors would be extremely difficult, and dangerous, to lift. Over time, springs wear out due to constant tension, temperature changes, and repeated use.
Whatever spring system you choose directly affects:
- Garage door safety
- Door balance and smooth operation
- Opener lifespan
- Long-term maintenance costs
Torsion Springs: How They Work
Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door opening, attached to a metal shaft. When the door closes, the springs twist and store energy. As the door opens, that stored energy unwinds, lifting the door smoothly.
Benefits of Torsion Springs
- Enhanced Safety: Mounted securely on a shaft, reducing the risk of flying parts if a spring breaks
- Smoother Operation: Provides consistent, balanced lifting
- Longer Lifespan: Typically rated for more open-and-close cycles than extension springs
- Better Door Control: Ideal for heavier or wider garage doors
Drawbacks
- Higher upfront installation cost
- Requires professional installation and adjustment
Torsion springs are the preferred choice for most modern garage doors due to their reliability and safety advantages.
Extension Springs: How They Work
Extension springs are mounted along the sides of the garage door, running parallel to the horizontal tracks. These springs stretch and contract as the door opens and closes, using tension to lift the door.
Benefits of Extension Springs
- Lower initial cost
- Suitable for smaller or lighter garage doors
- Can fit garages with limited headroom
Drawbacks
- Shorter lifespan compared to torsion springs
- Less smooth operation
- Increased safety risk if safety cables are not installed
Because extension springs stretch under tension, a broken spring can snap and cause damage or injury if not properly restrained.
Torsion vs. Extension Springs: Key Differences
| Feature | Torsion Springs | Extension Springs |
| Location | Above the Door | Alongside the Door |
| Operation | Twisting Motion | Stretching Motion |
| Safety | Higher | Lower with Safety Cables |
| Lifespan | Longer | Shorter |
| Cost | Higher Upfront | Lower Upfront |
| Performance | Smooth and Balanced | Less Consistent |
Why the Difference Matters for Safety and Performance
The type of garage door spring system you choose impacts more than just cost. Safety is a major factor, as torsion springs are far less likely to cause injury if they fail. Performance also varies, as torsion springs provide better balance, reducing strain on your garage door opener and extending the life of the entire system.
For homeowners using their garage door multiple times per day, investing in torsion springs often results in fewer repairs and better long-term value.
Garage Door Services Near Me
If you’re located in or near Vancouver, WA, Pioneer Overhead Door Company offers professional garage door services, including spring replacement, system upgrades, and routine maintenance. Whether you’re dealing with a broken torsion spring or considering an upgrade from extension springs, working with a local expert ensures safe installation and reliable performance tailored to your specific garage door.
Choosing the Right Garage Door Spring System
Knowing the difference between torsion and extension garage door springs empowers homeowners to make safer, smarter decisions. While both systems serve the same purpose, torsion springs generally provide superior safety, smoother operation, and longer lifespan. Extension springs may still be suitable for certain setups, but they require proper safety measures and more frequent replacement.
When it comes to garage door performance and safety, the right spring system and professional service makes all the difference!
