How Does a Garage Door Spring Work?

Layla M. • February 10, 2023

How Does a Garage Door Spring Work?

How Does a Garage Door Spring Work?

What are the different types of garage door springs, and how do they work

One of the most important parts of your garage door is the garage door spring. It is in charge of supporting the whole weight of your garage door. Your garage doors would be too heavy, if not impossible, to lift without it, even though your openers could start automatic operations without it. It is therefore better to hire a professional instead of risking injury by repairing a garage door spring.

The torsion spring and the extension spring are the two types of garage door springs.


Why do garage doors have springs? 

Your garage door has springs, whichever kind they are, to lift and lower your door. The springs tighten up as the garage door is lowered. When the garage door is raised, the spring helps lift it because the tension has been removed. 


How do garage door springs work? 

By applying torque to coils of heavy-gauge steel wire, torsion garage door springs balance the weight of garage doors. Garage doors can weigh anywhere between 250 and 600 pounds, depending on their size and style. Typically, torsion springs are mounted horizontally on torsion bars near to the garage opening, above the garage door.


The weight of your garage door is distributed evenly throughout the system by the torsion springs, resulting in a more stable functioning. This takes into account the garage door's modest trembling, which indicates instability every time it is opened. Torsion springs are more robust and last longer than extension springs.


Some garage doors have more than one torsion spring. The number depends mainly on the weight it carries and the number of doors you have. The more doors you possess, the more springs you need to maintain stability on your garage doors.


How Extension Springs Work

An older sort of spring system is one that uses extension springs. It is often present on both sides of the garage doors and is cable-attached at one end to the track support. Although they are effective at helping your door move against gravity, they do not have the same impact on your garage door's balance as torsion springs do.


Your garage door weighs a ton, therefore it is amazing that it can be so simply raised and lowered on the ground when it is opened or closed. The real lifting is done by the coils of your garage door spring, even though your garage door opener is in charge of your automatic functioning.


Torsion Springs vs. Extension Springs

Although they serve the same purpose, torsion and extension springs operate in distinct ways. When you open a door with a torsion spring, the springs unwind as the door raises. By rotating the shaft that turns the cable drums, the strain that has been stored lifts actual objects. The cables untie from the drums and the springs are wound back up to their full tension as the door is lowered to close.


Through a system of pulleys and counterweight cables that extend from the bottom corner brackets through the pulleys, extension springs lift your garage door. Your extension springs tighten when your garage door is opened, elevating the door when the strain is released.

No matter what type of garage door springs you have, it is essential always to have them in perfect condition, as it is critical to the smooth function of your garage doors. If you detect anything suspicious regarding how they move or sound, call Fix N Go Service immediately to check for problems. This will prevent avoidable accidents from occurring.


Fix N Go Service takes care of your garage door springs

Like any device used regularly, your garage door springs eventually suffer from wear and tear. This is why it is a must that it is inspected regularly and be subjected to regular maintenance. Garage door springs hold a tremendous amount of tension that, when released, may cause accidents or injuries.

Fix N Go Service provides this type of garage door care for you as well as their own trademarked springs, Midlife torsion springs. They conduct regular garage door inspections, tune-ups, and maintenance services that prevent you from any inconvenience caused by the sudden breaking of your springs. They also ensure they last as long as possible, saving you money from constant repairs such as garage door spring repair and replacement.

Fix N Go Service has been known to provide only the best service for your garage doors. For over a decade, they have proven themselves as the top garage door service provider in town, gaining thousands of satisfied customers. They have a team of experts ready to respond to your garage door concerns anytime with just one call.

Fix N Go Service also understands the need for security and an immediate game plan. This is why they provide 1-day garage door installation for those who need it, preventing your homes from unnecessary exposure for longer periods. They are also ready with the vast collection of garage door parts that have to make repairs any time of the day. 

You might also like

Fix N Go Blog

How To Fix A Squeaky Automatic Garage Door?
By Rabia Tingat February 21, 2025
Stop your automatic garage door from squeaking with these quick and easy maintenance tips. Say goodbye to irritating noises today!
How Long Do Automatic Garage Door Openers Last?
By Rabia Tingat February 20, 2025
Automatic garage door openers have become a staple in modern homes, offering convenience, security, and efficiency. However, like any mechanical system, they do not last forever. If you are wondering, how long do automatic garage door openers last, the answer depends on various factors, including usage, maintenance, and the quality of the opener itself. In this article, we’ll explore the average lifespan of garage door openers, signs that indicate it’s time for a replacement, and tips to extend their longevity. Average Lifespan of an Automatic Garage Door Opener On average, an automatic garage door opener lasts between 10 to 15 years. However, with proper maintenance and minimal wear and tear, some openers can function efficiently for up to 20 years. The lifespan of a garage door opener depends on: Usage frequency – The more you use it, the quicker it wears out. Maintenance – Regular servicing can prolong its life. Quality of the opener – Higher-end models tend to last longer. Environmental factors – Harsh weather conditions can impact longevity. For homeowners who use their garage doors multiple times a day, the opener may wear out faster than the average lifespan. Factors That Affect the Lifespan of a Garage Door Opener 1. Frequency of Use Every garage door opener has a motor and internal gears that undergo stress each time the door opens and closes. If your garage is the primary entrance to your home, daily use can shorten its lifespan. A standard garage door opener is designed to last about 10,000 cycles (one cycle = opening and closing). If you open and close your garage door twice a day, it could last around 13–15 years. However, if you use it more frequently, the lifespan may be closer to 8–10 years. 2. Quality of the Opener Not all garage door openers are created equal. Cheaper models may last around 8–10 years, while premium brands with advanced technology and durable parts can last well beyond 15 years. 3. Maintenance and Repairs Routine garage door maintenance plays a significant role in longevity. Lubricating moving parts , tightening loose hardware, and ensuring the safety sensors are clean can prevent wear and tear. Without regular maintenance, components like springs, chains, and belts can wear out faster, forcing the motor to work harder—ultimately reducing its lifespan. 4. Weather and Environmental Conditions Extreme weather conditions, such as high humidity, freezing temperatures, or excessive heat, can impact the opener’s performance. Cold weather can cause metal components to contract, making the opener work harder. High humidity can lead to rust and corrosion, affecting internal parts. Extreme heat can damage the circuit board inside the opener. If you live in an area with harsh weather, investing in a weather-resistant garage door opener can help extend its lifespan. 5. Power Surges and Electrical Issues Frequent power surges or poor electrical wiring can damage the opener’s circuit board. Using a surge protector can help prevent unexpected failures due to voltage spikes. Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Garage Door Opener Even if your garage door opener is still working, certain signs indicate that it may need a replacement soon: 1. Slow or Noisy Operation: If your garage door moves slower than usual or starts making loud grinding or rattling noises, it could mean the motor or internal gears are wearing out. 2. Inconsistent Performance: Does your garage door opener sometimes refuse to respond? If you notice delays or frequent malfunctions, the circuit board or motor may be failing. 3. Outdated Safety Features: Older garage door openers lack modern safety features like rolling code technology, motion sensors, and smartphone integration. If your opener is more than 15 years old, consider upgrading to a newer, safer model. 4. Increased Maintenance Costs: If you find yourself constantly repairing the opener, it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a newer model rather than spending money on frequent repairs. 5. Random Opening and Closing: If your garage door opens or closes on its own, it could be due to a malfunctioning circuit board or interference from nearby signals. This can pose a security risk, so replacing it may be the best solution. How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Garage Door Opener Want to make your garage door opener last as long as possible? Follow these maintenance tips: 1. Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply garage door lubricant to the chains, rollers, and hinges every 6 months to reduce friction and wear. 2. Tighten Hardware Regularly: Over time, bolts and screws may loosen. Inspect and tighten them annually to ensure smooth operation. 3. Test the Safety Features: Ensure that the auto-reverse mechanism and photo-eye sensors are working properly. Place an object in the door’s path to see if it stops and reverses as it should. 4. Replace Worn-Out Parts Promptly: If you notice frayed belts, worn-out chains, or weak springs, replace them before they break completely. 5. Keep the Tracks Clean: Dirt and debris can cause misalignment. Clean the garage door tracks regularly to prevent operational issues. 6. Install a Surge Protector: A surge protector prevents damage from unexpected power surges, helping to protect the opener’s circuit board. Final Thoughts So, how long do automatic garage door openers last? The typical lifespan is 10 to 15 years, but with proper maintenance, some can last up to 20 years. If your opener is showing signs of wear, struggles to function properly, or lacks modern safety features, it may be time for an upgrade. By following preventative maintenance tips, you can extend its lifespan and avoid unexpected failures. Invest in a high-quality garage door opener, maintain it regularly, and enjoy years of hassle-free operation!
How Do Automatic Garage Doors Work?
By Rabia Tingat February 18, 2025
How do automatic garage doors operate? Explore the technology, from remote control signals to motorized lifting, and understand why they’re a must-have.
More Posts
Share by: