The garage door springs, torsion or extension, provide tension to raise and lower the door on demand. They essentially do all the heavy lifting to prevent straining the garage door opener’s motor. A good indication that one or, if applicable, both springs have broken is if the door does not open. Broken garage door springs always require professional repair, ideally in pairs, since tension makes them incredibly dangerous.
Spring Identification
Extension springs are mounted two to a door, on either side of its horizontal track.
Torsion springs are installed directly above the opening and, depending on its weight, one or two to a door.
Cycle Depletion
The single biggest reason for broken springs is cycle depletion. Most springs are manufactured with a standard cycle count of ten thousand, and while that may seem like a lot, one cycle is depleted with one full operation of the door. That means, if you open and close the door four times per day, the springs’ life expectancy is about seven years. However, depending on your daily use, they can last anywhere from seven to fourteen years.
If you frequently deal with broken garage door springs, you may want to consider investing in high-cycle torsion springs, typically rated for 20,000 cycles.
Once the springs have exhausted their cycle count, they may break, rendering the door non-operational until repairs can be made. The only viable option for broken springs is a professional replacement. Repair professionals possess the skills and equipment necessary to safely and reliably replace the springs. Depending on the specifics of your door – size, weight, etc. – two springs may be required and should be simultaneously replaced.
Professional Replacement of Garage Door Springs
Sun Devil Garage Door offers installation, maintenance, repair, and replacement services for all makes and models of garage doors and garage door openers. We also provide new garage doors in a variety of materials, designs, and optional features.
We are further committed to using durable replacement products from trusted manufacturers, like LiftMaster®, and keeping our services trucks stocked to better assist you with repairing your door or opener. To schedule an appointment, please contact us at (480) 838-9397.
