Garage Door Springs are something most people do not think much about. As long as the door opens, that is all that matters. Yet, garage door springs do not last forever.
I discovered this for myself when sitting at my desk, I heard a loud bang. I went to my garage and found the garage door no longer opens. Looking up, I saw the spring on my garage door had snapped!
🔩 What Are Garage Door Springs, Exactly?
There are two main types:
Torsion Springs: Mounted horizontally above the door, these are tightly wound and use torque to lift the door. Most modern systems use these. It is actually two springs working together
Extension Springs: Mounted along the horizontal tracks on either side, these stretch and contract to open and close the door. More common in older or budget setups. Again, this is two springs, one on each side.
Torsion springs are generally safer, more durable, and more balanced.
⏳ How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last?
Garage door springs are rated by “cycles”—each cycle being one full open and close.
Standard torsion springs are typically rated for 10,000 cycles
High-cycle springs may last 20,000–30,000 cycles
For the average homeowner using the garage 4 times a day, that’s 7–10 years of life on standard springs
If you have a busy household—kids going in and out, multiple cars, using the garage as the main entrance—springs can wear out even sooner.
🛠️ Signs Your Garage Door Spring May Be Failing:
The door suddenly feels very heavy
The opener strains or fails to lift it
You hear a loud “bang” from the garage (like I did!)
The door only opens a few inches and stops
You notice the spring is visibly broken or gapped
⚠️ Important Safety Tip
Garage door springs are not a DIY repair. They are under high tension and can cause serious injury if handled improperly. Always hire a trained garage door technician to replace or adjust springs.
Garage doors are similar to your car: They need regular maintenance and occasionally need new parts. Springs are much like tires on a car: They can last a long time, but they do need to eventually need to changed!
To book your home inspection, call 818-298-3405 or book online here.Â