Understanding the Role of Torsion Springs for Garage Doors
Garage doors rely on several components working together to operate effectively. Torsion springs play a vital role in the safe operation of garage doors. Made of tightly wound metal coils that store and release energy to help lift and lower a garage door, these springs work with the garage door opener to make smooth operation possible.
Without torsion springs, manually opening a garage door would be nearly impossible due to the extreme weight of the door. In this article, we’ll share important information about torsion springs that every homeowner should know.
Types of Torsion Springs
- Standard Torsion Springs
- High-Cycle Torsion Springs
- Low-Headroom Torsion Springs
- Torque-Master Torsion Springs
- Commercial Heavy-Duty Torsion Springs
Warning Signs of Torsion Spring Issues
Garage door springs can last anywhere from seven to twelve years. Their lifespan depends on the quality of the spring, proper installation, frequency of daily use, and ongoing maintenance. Numerous garage door malfunctions point to problems with your torsion springs. Be on the lookout for the following warning signs that your springs are wearing down or have completely broken:
- Excessive Noise During Operation
- Imbalanced or Lopsided Door
- Slow or Jerky Door Movement
- Difficulty Opening or Closing Garage Door
- Broken or Frayed Garage Door Cables
- Gaps in the Spring Coils
- Door Falls or Slams Shut Suddenly
- Stuck or Crooked Garage Door
- Visible Spring Damage – Rust & Corrosion
- Sagging or Loose Garage Door Cables
Torsion Spring Maintenance
During a regular garage door maintenance tune-up, a trained technician will pay careful attention to the upkeep of your garage door’s torsion springs. They will inspect the springs for corrosion or other damage. Each garage door requires specific amounts of tension to ensure the springs are operating effectively, and the technician will make adjustments to achieve the optimal balance and tension necessary. They will also lubricate the springs to minimize friction and increase longevity. These measures reduce the risk of sudden breakage and improve the spring’s overall performance.
Essential Safety Tips for Dealing with Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs help garage doors open and close smoothly and evenly at a safe speed. Over time, they experience a significant amount of wear and tear due to the weight they carry each time the door is in operation. Garage door spring replacement and repair is best left to professional technicians who have extensive experience handling garage door parts. The tension these springs hold makes them a dangerous garage door component to manage without proper training.
One way you can help keep yourself and your family safe is to inspect your springs every month visually. Look and listen for changes in your door over time. If you notice any warning signs of damage discussed earlier in this article, contact your local garage door company immediately for help.
It’s also important to educate children about garage door safety. Have a family discussion about how to operate the garage door safely and its potential dangers. Show them how to open and close the door and keep a safe distance from it and its moving parts. Point out the garage door springs and describe what they should look like, reminding them to tell a parent or guardian immediately if they notice rust or damage on the coils.
Upgrading Garage Door Springs for Optimal Performance
Standard springs last approximately 10,000 cycles, with opening and closing the garage door considered one cycle. Residential high-cycle torsion springs far surpass this number, lasting up to 50,000 cycles. With the added lifespan and enhanced durability of these springs, homeowners who use their garage doors frequently will greatly benefit from upgrading from standard to high-cycle torsion springs!
If you’re interested in upgrading your springs, consult with a local garage door technician who will consider the size and weight of your garage door along with total usage to determine if high-cycle springs are right for you.
Torsion vs. Extension Springs
Unlike torsion springs that are mounted above the garage door and run parallel to the door’s horizontal tracks, extension springs are mounted on either side of the garage door above the horizontal tracks. Extension springs are commonly used in older homes, while torsion springs offer smoother operation and are a popular choice for modern homes. While torsion springs are more expensive, homeowners love the benefits they offer.
Benefits of Torsion Springs Compared to Extension Springs:
- Better performance and controlled operation
- Greater balance and a longer lifespan
- Less frequent maintenance requirements
- Lower risk of injury because springs are enclosed in a metal shaft
- Less vertical and horizontal space required
- Compatible with heavier and larger garage doors
Trust the Professionals With Replacements and Repairs
A local garage door company will have trained garage door professionals readily available to complete any needed spring repair, replacement, or upgrade. For homeowners residing near Chesapeake, VA, Garage Door Enterprises is here to help. Contact us for a FREE estimate or to schedule an appointment.
