2026-08-26 7 min read
If you've ever dealt with a stuck garage door or heard a loud bang from your garage, springs are probably what failed. Most homeowners in Dunstable don't think about their garage door springs until something goes wrong. But knowing which type you have matters when it's time for a repair or replacement, and it can save you real money on your estimate.
Your garage door uses one of two spring systems, and they work in completely different ways.
Torsion springs sit above your garage door opening, horizontally wound around a metal shaft. These are the heavy lifters. When you open your door, the spring twists (that's where "torsion" comes from) and releases energy to help lift the weight. Most residential doors in Massachusetts use torsion springs because they're more durable and quieter. They typically last 7 to 9 years with average use, maybe longer if you maintain them well.
Extension springs run along the sides of your garage door tracks. Instead of twisting, they stretch and contract as the door moves up and down. You'll often see them with safety cables running through the middle. Extension springs are cheaper upfront, but they don't last as long. They wear faster and can be noisier than their torsion cousins.
How do you know which one you have? Look above your door opening. If you see a horizontal spring wound around a shaft with pulleys on each end, that's torsion. If you see springs running along the tracks on both sides, those are extension springs.
Here's what I've learned in 15 years on trucks across Dunstable and surrounding towns: knowing your spring type before calling for help prevents confusion and wrong estimates.
Torsion springs cost more to replace because they're more complex to install. You need the right tools, knowledge of the tension, and experience working at height. That's why we always recommend calling a professional. A snapped spring isn't a DIY fix. Extension springs are cheaper to replace, but if one breaks, the other usually isn't far behind. When we come out for a same-day repair, we often recommend replacing both to avoid a second service call next month.
The good news? We've got the inventory to handle same-day repairs for both types. Schedule a free quote today and we'll identify exactly which springs you need.
**Need garage door springs in Dunstable today?** Call (978) 338-7441. we cover same-day service across the area.
Springs wear out from regular use. Every time your door opens and closes, the spring does work. Over thousands of cycles, the metal fatigues and eventually snaps. Winter in New England accelerates this. Cold temperatures make metal more brittle, which is why we see more spring failures January through March.
If your door is hard to open or feels heavier than usual, your springs are weakening. Don't ignore these signs. A failing spring puts extra strain on your garage door opener, which then fails prematurely. It's a domino effect. If you're noticing noise or struggle, read our guide on garage door spring noise to understand what you're hearing.
The cost of replacing both springs in a typical residential home ranges from $300 to $600, depending on spring type and your door's weight. A new garage door opener costs more, so catching spring problems early saves money.
Never try to remove or adjust garage door springs yourself. The tension in these springs is powerful enough to cause serious injury. I've seen injuries that could've been prevented by a simple phone call. Our team at Dunstable Garage Doors handles spring repair and replacement as a core service, and we've got the training and equipment to do it safely.
If your spring snaps, your door won't open or will fall. Don't force it. Call us for same-day emergency service if your garage door fails unexpectedly.
Your garage door springs need attention when they show signs of wear. Whether you have torsion or extension springs, the solution is the same: professional replacement. Call (978) 338-7441 to get a same-day estimate, or if you'd like to learn more about spring types and lifespan, check our detailed guide on how garage door springs work.
Don't wait until a spring snaps. Small maintenance costs far less than emergency repairs.
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion springs typically last 7 to 9 years. Extension springs wear faster, usually 5 to 7 years. Lifespan depends on climate, use, and maintenance. Cold winters speed up deterioration in New England.
Can I replace just one spring if the other is fine? Extension springs should be replaced in pairs, even if only one breaks. The second one is near the end of its life and will fail soon after. Torsion springs are single units, but replacement is more involved and costly.
What's the difference in price between torsion and extension spring replacement? Torsion springs cost more, usually $400 to $600 for both. Extension springs run $250 to $400. Price varies by door weight and local labor costs in Dunstable.
Is a broken garage door spring an emergency? Yes. A snapped spring means your door can't open safely. Don't attempt to force it or open it manually. Call for professional emergency service right away.
How do I know if my spring is about to fail? Listen and feel. Loud creaking, squeaking, or the door feeling heavy are warning signs. If your door drops quickly when closing or is hard to open, springs are weakening. Schedule an inspection before failure.