Springs do the heavy lifting on your garage door. A typical double door weighs well over 100 pounds; the springs counterbalance that weight so the door, or your opener, can lift it easily. There are two main types.
Torsion springs
Torsion springs sit on a metal shaft above the door opening. As the door closes, cables wound on drums at each end twist the springs, storing energy that lifts the door when it opens. Most newer homes in North Miami use them because they are balanced, smooth and long-lasting.
- Smoother, quieter and more controlled movement
- Usually last longer than extension springs
- Contained on the shaft, so a break is less dangerous
Extension springs
Extension springs run along the horizontal tracks on each side and stretch as the door closes. They are common on older and lighter doors. Because they stretch under tension, they should always have a safety cable running through the middle to contain the spring if it snaps.
- Lower upfront cost
- More wear on other parts and a less even lift
- Must have safety cables installed
How long do springs last?
Springs are rated in cycles; one cycle is the door opening and closing once. Standard springs are commonly rated around 10,000 cycles, which is roughly 7 to 10 years for a family that uses the door a few times a day. High-cycle springs last much longer. In South Florida, humidity and salt air add rust, which shortens spring life, so galvanized or coated springs are a smart upgrade near the coast.
Signs a spring is broken or failing
- A loud bang from the garage, like a gunshot
- A visible gap in a torsion spring
- The door feels extremely heavy or the opener strains and stops
- The door rises crooked or only a few inches
- Cables look loose or have come off the drums
Why spring repair is not a DIY job
Springs store enough energy to cause serious injury. Winding torsion springs takes proper winding bars, the right spring size for your door's weight and a careful balance test afterward. If you hear that bang, do not try to lift the door or run the opener. Book a spring replacement and we will match, install and balance the springs safely, usually the same day.
Tip: when one spring on a two-spring door breaks, replacing both is usually recommended, since they have the same age and wear.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is better, torsion or extension springs?
Torsion springs are usually the better choice: they lift more smoothly, last longer and are safer when they break. Many older doors with extension springs can be converted to torsion.
Should I replace both springs at once?
If your door has two springs, replacing both is usually recommended. They have the same age and wear, so the second spring often fails soon after the first.
Can I open my garage door with a broken spring?
It is not safe. The door is very heavy without the spring, and forcing it with the opener can damage the opener and other parts. Call a technician instead.
We serve North Miami and nearby cities including North Miami, North Miami Beach, Aventura, Miami Gardens, Miami Shores, Sunny Isles Beach, Biscayne Park, Bal Harbour and more.
