One of the most critical components in a garage door assembly is the spring system, which includes either torsion or extension springs, along with cables and pulleys. This system provides counterbalancing force to safely and efficiently open and close the door each time the opener is activated.
Two Types of Garage Door Springs
Most residential garage doors have one of two types of springs: torsion or extension.
Torsion springs
Torsion springs are heavy-duty springs mounted to a metal rod that runs parallel to the door directly above the door opening. These springs are tensioned; they twist and coil whenever force is applied. They require the use of cables and pulleys. Standard torsion springs generally have a 10,000-cycle lifespan.
Extension springs
Extension springs are lighter-weight springs that run perpendicular to the door and are mounted above the horizontal portions of the door tracks. These springs are tensioned by extending out. Like torsion springs, extension springs also require cables and pulleys, as well as safety cables. These springs should last between 5,000 and 10,000 cycles.
Average Life Expectancy
A cycle represents opening and closing the door one time. For example: The average household opens and closes the garage door four times daily, which gives a standard 10,000-cycle torsion spring a lifespan of approximately seven years; high-cycle springs can double this number. The more the door is used, the sooner the springs will fail, necessitating replacement. Here is a good guide to go by.
- 2 times daily = 14 years (approx)
- 4 times daily = 7 years (approx)
- 6 times daily = 5 years (approx)
- 8 times daily = 3 years (approx)
Contact the Best Garage Door and Repair Company in Orlando and Kissimmee for a free estimate or call us at: (321) 430-7117