7 min read
Your garage door springs are working right now, holding up several hundred pounds with quiet precision. But most homeowners can't tell a torsion spring from an extension spring, and that gap in knowledge costs them time, money, and frustration. Let me clear that up for you. The two types work on completely different principles, require different replacement approaches, and cost different amounts to fix.
A torsion spring sits horizontally above your garage door opening, mounted on a metal shaft. It's wound tight like a clock spring. As your door opens, the spring unwinds. As it closes, it rewinds. This twisting action is where the name comes from.
Torsion springs are the professional choice. They're found on most residential garage doors in Onalaska and across the Pacific Northwest. They balance your door smoothly, last longer (typically 7 to 9 years with normal use), and wear more evenly over time.
The catch: they're under enormous tension. A snapped torsion spring means your door won't open without serious effort from the opener, and closing becomes a safety risk. If you hear a loud bang from above your door, that's usually a snapped torsion spring releasing its tension all at once.
Extension springs mount on either side of your door, running horizontally along the tracks. They stretch and contract as your door moves. When the door opens, they extend. When it closes, they retract back to their original length.
Extension springs are common on older systems and lighter doors. They're cheaper to buy initially, but they don't last as long as torsion springs. They typically give you 5 to Experienced Local Team.
Because they're positioned along the tracks, a snapped extension spring is usually less dramatic than a torsion failure. Your door might still operate, but sluggishly. You'll notice the uneven movement right away.
**Need garage door springs in Onalaska today?** Call 360-469-5039. we cover same-day service across the area.
Walk into your garage and close the door. Look directly above the door opening at the center. Do you see a tightly wound coil running left to right on a metal shaft? That's a torsion spring.
Now look along both sides of the door where it meets the tracks. See springs that run the length of the tracks? Those are extension springs.
Never attempt to adjust, repair, or replace springs yourself. The tension in either type is lethal. A slip, a miscalculation, or a tool catching the wrong edge can result in serious injury.
A torsion spring replacement typically costs more than an extension spring replacement, but the investment pays for itself over time through longer lifespan and better performance.
When one spring fails, the other isn't far behind. Springs age together. If you have a snapped spring, I recommend replacing both at the same time. Otherwise, you'll be calling for another repair six months from now.
Garage Door Onalaska handles both types and can schedule a free quote to assess which springs you have and what replacement will cost. We'll also let you know if your door's balance has been thrown off by the failure, which affects opener strain and overall safety.
For more on keeping your entire system safe, check out our guide on garage door photo eye safety in Onalaska and broader safety information every homeowner should understand.
If you see visible rust or pitting on the shaft where a torsion spring is mounted, the spring is weakening and failure is coming. If you hear creaking or squeaking from above the door, it's a sign the spring is losing its smooth operation.
A snapped spring is an emergency. Don't force the door open or closed. Contact us for emergency garage door service in Onalaska and we'll respond the same day. Your safety and your door's integrity depend on fast, professional help.
The best time to replace springs is before they fail. We can inspect yours and give you a timeline and estimate so there are no surprises.
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion springs typically last 7 to 9 years with normal use. Extension springs last 5 to 7 years. Lifespan depends on door cycles, climate (humidity in our area can speed rust), and maintenance habits.
Can I replace just one spring? Technically yes, but it's not recommended. Springs wear together. Replacing both ensures balanced operation and prevents a second failure within months.
What does a snapped spring sound like? A loud, sudden bang or crack from above the door. It's unmistakable. The door may not respond normally to the opener after that sound.
How much does spring replacement cost? Torsion springs cost more to replace than extension springs, typically $200 to $400 per spring plus labor. Get a free estimate by calling 360-469-5039.
Should I lubricate my springs? Never apply lubricant directly to springs. It collects dust and grit, actually accelerating wear. Proper annual maintenance of other door components helps springs last longer.