How Torsion Springs work
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 and sadly many people fail to properly maintain their springs.
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. Be on the lookout for the following warning signs:
- 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 and corrosion
- Sagging or loose garage door cables
Torsion Spring Maintenance
During a regular garage door maintenance tune-up, a trained technician will inspect the springs for corrosion or other damage, make adjustments to achieve the optimal balance and tension, and lubricate the springs to minimize friction and increase longevity.
Torsion Spring Maintenance
During a regular garage door maintenance tune-up, a trained technician will inspect the springs for corrosion or other damage, make adjustments to achieve the optimal balance and tension, and lubricate the springs to minimize friction and increase longevity.
Garage Door Spring Safety Tips
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, contact your local garage door company immediately.
Upgrading Garage Door Springs
Standard springs last approximately 10,000 cycles. Residential high-cycle torsion springs far surpass this number, lasting up to 50,000 cycles. Homeowners who use their garage doors frequently will greatly benefit from upgrading from standard to high-cycle torsion springs.
Torsion vs. Extension Springs
Unlike torsion springs that are mounted above the garage door, 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 popular for modern homes.
Benefits of torsion springs over 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
- Compatible with heavier and larger garage doors
For homeowners near Chesapeake, VA, Garage Door Enterprises is here to help. Contact us for a free estimate.
