Garage Door Torsion Springs – What to Know
Understanding how torsion springs function and their impact on a garage door system is essential for proper maintenance and replacement decisions.
Torsion springs are a crucial part of a garage door system, playing a key role every time the door opens or closes. Understanding how they function and their impact on a garage door system is essential for proper maintenance and replacement decisions.
What Exactly Is a Torsion Spring?
As the name suggests, torsion springs operate based on the principle of torsion or twisting. Energy is stored in the spring’s coils relative to the degree of twisting applied. Imagine holding one edge of a sponge and gently twisting the other edge—the sponge curls around itself. Once released, it uncoils and returns to its original shape due to the stored energy within the material.
A torsion spring works in a similar manner. When a twisting force is applied, energy is stored in proportion to the level of twisting. Upon release, the spring converts the stored energy into an opposite force, allowing it to uncoil. Most garage door torsion springs are made from helical-shaped metal rods or wires arranged to twist tightly when force is applied.
How Torsion Springs Work in a Garage Door System
A torsion spring mechanism consists of at least one steel spring coiled around a steel shaft or rod, installed above the garage door. Bearing plates support the mechanism at each end and the center, while cable drums are positioned at both edges of the steel shaft. Counterbalance cables, connected to the door, wind and unwind around the drums, helping lift or lower the door with controlled force.
Tension Ratings and Lifecycle of Garage Door Torsion Springs
A garage door is one of the most frequently used features in any home, causing the steel in the springs to weaken over time. As springs deteriorate, they lose the ability to support the door’s weight, reducing efficiency and eventually leading to breakage. Additionally, rust can develop, hindering the door’s ability to open and close properly.
Despite these factors, torsion springs are designed for durability, typically lasting five to seven years or approximately 10,000 cycles. With an average of three uses per day, a high-quality spring can provide reliable performance for several years before requiring replacement.
Considerations When Purchasing Torsion Springs
Replacing One or Both Torsion Springs
If a garage door was originally installed with a single torsion spring, replacing only that spring is generally acceptable. However, if two torsion springs are in place and one fails, replacing both is highly recommended. This approach saves money and prevents the inconvenience of another unexpected failure in the near future.
Both springs have the same cycle life. If one fails, the second is likely to break soon as well. If left unchanged, a sudden failure could result in a garage door that won’t open, potentially leaving a vehicle trapped inside. While the exact timing of the second spring's failure is unpredictable, replacement ensures continued reliability.
Some doors are equipped with two springs of different dimensions. In these cases, the broken spring may have a shorter cycle life than the other. If the remaining spring still has several thousand cycles left, replacing only the failed spring is an option. However, for optimal longevity, replacing both at the same time is recommended. When purchasing replacements, selecting springs with identical wire size, inside diameter, and length ensures proper functionality.
Is Having Two Torsion Springs Better Than One?
Two torsion springs offer a longer cycle life and a backup in case one fails. If one spring breaks, the remaining spring can still allow the door to be manually opened. However, the cost of purchasing and installing two springs is higher than using a single spring.
Some garage doors require two torsion springs due to heavier materials, larger sizes, or specific manufacturer specifications. A two-spring setup distributes the load more effectively, preventing the need for an oversized single spring. Additionally, doors with added weight from reinforcements or insulation may benefit from the extra support of dual springs.
Additional Tips for Buying Garage Door Torsion Springs
When purchasing torsion springs, opting for high-quality springs from reputable manufacturers is essential. A well-made spring ensures smooth garage door operation despite the door’s weight.
Before making a purchase, measuring the spring’s length and inside diameter helps avoid installation issues. Additionally, verifying the wire size and winding direction ensures compatibility with the garage door system. If uncertain about the correct spring size, choosing one identical to the previously installed spring simplifies the selection process.
Finally, replacing garage door springs can be hazardous due to the extreme tension they hold. Without the right tools and expertise, serious injuries may occur. For safety and proper installation, hiring an experienced garage door service professional is the best course of action.
