When you look at a garage door, you might not immediately notice the springs, but they are the critical component doing all the heavy lifting. These powerful springs counterbalance the immense weight of the door, allowing it to open and close smoothly. There are two main types of spring systems used for residential garage doors: torsion springs and extension springs. While both serve the same basic purpose, they operate differently and have distinct advantages and disadvantages.
Understanding the difference can help you know what kind of system you have, what to look for when it needs maintenance, and what to choose if you're installing a new door. Let's break down the key characteristics of each.
The Two Main Types of Springs
Torsion Springs
This is the modern standard for garage door systems. A torsion spring is a large, heavy-duty spring mounted horizontally on a metal shaft directly above the garage door opening.
- Mechanism: They work by twisting (or "torsion"). As the door closes, cables attached to the bottom of the door wind around drums on the shaft, which twists and energizes the spring. When the door opens, the spring unwinds, using its stored energy to lift the door.
- Safety: Torsion springs are generally safer. When one breaks, the spring itself is contained on the metal shaft and is less likely to fly off and cause injury or damage.
- Durability & Performance: They provide better balance, leading to smoother, more controlled door movement. This reduces wear and tear on the door and opener. They also tend to last longer than extension springs.
Extension Springs
This is an older system, often found on older homes or in garages with low headroom where a torsion system won't fit. They run parallel to the horizontal tracks on each side of the door.
- Mechanism: They work by stretching and contracting. As the door lowers, these springs stretch out, storing energy. When the door is opened, the springs contract, pulling the door up.
- Safety: Extension springs can be more dangerous. When one breaks, it can snap violently and fly across the garage. This is why they should always have a safety cable running through the center to contain the spring in case of failure.
- Durability & Performance: They can cause a jerkier, less stable movement since each side is pulled independently. This can lead to more wear on door components over time.
Which System is Better?
For the vast majority of homeowners, torsion springs are the superior choice. They are safer, more durable, and provide a more reliable and balanced operation for your garage door. While they may have a slightly higher upfront cost, their longer lifespan and the reduced wear on other parts of your system make them a better long-term investment.
If you have an older home with extension springs, especially if they don't have safety cables, we highly recommend an inspection and considering a conversion to a torsion spring system for improved safety and performance. Whatever system you have, remember that spring repair and replacement is a job for trained professionals. Never attempt to adjust or remove high-tension springs yourself.
