2026-06-02 7 min read
There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion and extension. Torsion springs sit above your door and twist to lift the weight. Extension springs run along the sides and stretch to assist. Most modern homes use torsion because they're safer and last longer. A snapped spring means your door won't open without a service call.
Your garage door weighs between 300 and 500 pounds depending on size and material. That weight doesn't lift itself. Springs do the heavy lifting by storing and releasing energy each time you open or close the door. Without them, your opener motor would burn out in weeks, and you'd have a door you couldn't budge by hand.
Springs are engineered steel coils under extreme tension. When compressed or stretched, they hold thousands of pounds of force. That's why a snapped spring is dangerous. The sudden release of energy can cause injury or damage. Never attempt a DIY repair on springs. Call a professional instead.
Most residential springs last between 7 and 9 years with regular use. Some claim 10,000 to 15,000 cycles per spring. That's roughly one spring per decade for an average household opening the door four times daily. If you're getting more use, springs wear faster.
Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door opening. They twist and unwind as the door moves. This type provides smoother, more controlled operation. Most new installations in Dunstable and surrounding areas use torsion systems. They're the modern standard because they're safer and more reliable.
Extension springs hang vertically along both sides of the door track. They stretch when the door closes and contract as it opens. Older homes often have this setup. Extension springs require safety cables to catch the spring if it breaks, reducing injury risk. However, torsion springs eliminate this hazard altogether.
Which type do you have? Look at your garage door opening. If you see a long spring running horizontally above the door, you have torsion. If springs run along the side tracks near the hinges, you have extension. Not sure? Our team can identify your system and explain what you're working with. Learn more about when to repair versus replace your springs in Dunstable.
**Need garage door springs in Dunstable today?** Call (978) 338-7441. We cover same-day service across the area and surrounding towns.
Springs break from normal wear and tear. The metal fatigues over time. Rust accelerates failure, especially in New England where salt air and winter moisture are constant. Improper door balance causes uneven stress on springs. A misaligned track forces springs to compensate, shortening their lifespan.
Temperature swings matter too. Winter in Massachusetts can snap a weakened spring when metal contracts. One cold morning and you hear that loud bang from the garage. That's a spring giving out. It happens fast.
Cheap springs fail faster than quality ones. If your last repair cost less than expected, you may have gotten lower-grade parts. Quality torsion springs from reputable manufacturers hold up better and carry longer warranties. When we quote an estimate for spring replacement, we always specify the grade and expected lifespan.
Stop using your door immediately. A broken spring throws extra stress on your opener and tracks. Keep the door closed until it's repaired. Don't try to open it manually. The unbalanced weight is dangerous and can cause injury.
Call a garage door specialist right away. Same-day service is possible for spring replacement in most cases. The repair takes one to two hours depending on whether you need one spring or both replaced. Most homeowners replace both springs at the same time, even if only one broke. The second spring is usually close behind, ready to fail within months.
Wondering about the cost? Spring replacement typically ranges from $200 to $400 per spring, depending on quality and your door's size. Get a free same-day estimate by calling our team at (978) 338-7441. We'll discuss your options and timeline before any work begins.
Have your springs inspected annually. A technician can spot early signs of rust or wear. Lubricate springs twice yearly with a silicone-based product. Never use WD-40 or general oil. These attract dirt and accelerate corrosion.
Keep your garage reasonably dry. Moisture is the enemy of metal springs. Ensure your garage door seals are intact. Check out our full safety guide for more preventive steps.
Proper door balance matters too. Your opener shouldn't strain when opening or closing. If the door feels heavy or slow, have it checked. Our services page lists the full range of spring maintenance and replacement work we offer.
Spring repair isn't a DIY project. The tension and energy stored in springs can cause serious injury. Springs can snap unexpectedly. Professional technicians have the right tools, training, and insurance. We see injuries from DIY spring work every year. Don't be one of them.
Dunstable Garage Doors has been handling spring replacements for over 15 years. We stock quality parts and keep inventory on hand for quick turnaround. Same-day service is our standard, not an exception.
Your garage door springs are critical safety components. When they fail, act quickly. Call (978) 338-7441 or schedule a free estimate online today.
How long do garage door springs typically last? Most springs last 7 to 9 years with regular residential use. Lifespan depends on quality, frequency of use, and maintenance. Professional-grade springs outperform budget alternatives significantly.
Can I replace just one spring? Technically yes, but both springs usually wear at similar rates. Replacing both together ensures balanced operation and prevents a second failure shortly after the first repair.
What does a broken spring sound like? A loud bang or crack from the garage. The door may feel heavy or won't open smoothly. Never ignore these signs. Stop using the door and call for service immediately.
Are torsion springs safer than extension springs? Yes. Torsion springs are contained above the door and pose less injury risk if they fail. Extension springs require safety cables. Modern code favors torsion systems for residential garages.
How much does spring replacement cost near me? Pricing ranges from $200 to $400 per spring based on quality and door size. Call (978) 338-7441 for a specific estimate tailored to your garage door and spring type.