Garage door springs act as a counterbalance to the weight of all
garage doors, making them easier to open and close. Garage springs are under an extreme amount of tension and either stretch or torque, providing enough force to help you move the door.
There are several types of garage door springs to consider when replacing them.
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Extension springs:
Garage door extension springs stretch to provide lifting power for the door. These springs are typically made of steel and mounted above the horizontal track of the garage door. A safety cable should run through your extension springs to prevent possible injuries or property damage. Extension springs are the most common type of garage door spring for residential use and can break after excessive usage.
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Torsion springs: Mounted horizontally above the opening,
garage door torsion springs are twisted as the door goes down, storing energy in the process. When the spring unwinds, the energy is released, causing the door to rise. Torsion springs are the most common type of springs found in garages and can lift more weight than extension springs.
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EZ-Set torsion springs: Using the same technology as traditional torsion springs, EZ-Set torsion springs don’t need to be hand wound, making them easier to install.
When to Replace Garage Door Springs
Changing your garage springs isn’t typically a DIY project and usually requires a professional. But it’s good to know when it’s time to find garage door spring replacements. To test your springs, disable your garage door opener if you have one, then raise the door manually. If it doesn’t stay in place on its own, it’s time to replace your garage springs.
Another way to test your springs is to see if your garage door is perfectly aligned. If one side raises more than the other, this could be as sign the spring has weakened on one side.