2026-07-11 7 min read A2Z Garage Doors
Your garage door relies on one of two spring systems to lift a 300 to 400 pound door dozens of times each year. In our years serving Riverside, we've seen this problem again and again: homeowners confuse torsion and extension springs, don't know which type they have, and panic when one fails. This guide cuts through the confusion and explains both systems so you understand what's happening in your garage.
Springs counterbalance your door's weight. Without them, your garage door opener would burn out in weeks, and you'd struggle to lift the door by hand. The two main types work differently, fail differently, and cost different amounts to replace.
Torsion springs are wound steel coils that twist and unwind. They sit above the door on a horizontal rod and store energy by rotating. Extension springs stretch and contract like rubber bands. They hang on both sides of the door, usually near the pulleys, and work by extending under load.
Think of torsion springs as tightly coiled potential. Think of extension springs as stretched potential. Both do the same job. Only one belongs in your garage.
Torsion springs are the industry standard in Riverside and across California. They're centered over the door, balancing weight perfectly and distributing force evenly. This design makes them safer, more durable, and longer lasting.
A typical torsion spring lasts 7 to 9 years with normal use. They can handle 10,000 to 15,000 cycles (one cycle equals one open and one close). Torsion springs fail more predictably, too. When one snaps, the door stays balanced even though it won't open.
The tradeoff is cost. Torsion springs run higher in price than extension springs. But their lifespan and safety record justify the investment. If your door uses torsion springs now, you should replace them with the same type.
**Need garage door springs in Riverside today?** Call (951) 724-5612. we cover same-day service across the area.
Extension springs hang vertically on each side of the door frame. They're less expensive upfront, which is why older homes sometimes have them. Riverside properties built before 2000 are more likely to use extension springs.
The problem: when an extension spring snaps, the door loses support on one side and can drop unevenly. This jams the track, damages the opener, and creates a safety hazard. We've responded to calls where a snapped extension spring caused the door to crash down partially, trapping a car or worse.
Extension springs last 5 to 7 years under typical use. They handle 5,000 to 10,000 cycles before failure. If you hear a loud bang from your garage, and one side of the door hangs lower than the other, a snapped extension spring is the most likely culprit.
Most building codes now require safety cables on extension springs. These cables run through the spring coils and catch them if they break, preventing the door from falling. But cables don't stop the spring from breaking. They only contain the debris.
Look inside your garage with the door closed. Torsion springs sit horizontally above the door center, usually inside a metal tube. Extension springs hang vertically on the left and right sides near the track and pulleys.
If you're unsure, don't try to identify the spring type yourself. A professional inspection takes minutes and reveals the exact setup, age, and replacement cost. We offer free estimates for garage door springs in Riverside. One call answers every question.
Both spring types should be replaced before they snap. A preventive replacement costs less than emergency service and keeps your door working safely. If one spring breaks on a dual-spring system (common for heavier doors), replace both springs at the same time. They wear at similar rates, and replacing only one creates uneven tension.
The cost of replacing garage door springs varies based on spring type, door weight, and whether you need same-day service. Torsion springs typically run $200 to $400 per spring, plus labor. Extension springs are $100 to $200 per spring, but the lower initial cost isn't worth the safety risk on modern homes.
Spring replacement is not a DIY job. Garage door springs store enormous tension. A slip or miscalculation can cause serious injury. Professional technicians have the right tools, safety training, and experience to do this work correctly.
Watch for these warnings: the door opens slowly or unevenly, you hear creaking or squeaking from above the door, the opener struggles or shuts off mid-cycle, or you notice gaps between the door and frame. Any of these can signal weak or failing springs.
For more details on preventing spring failure altogether, read our garage door maintenance guide for Riverside homeowners. Regular inspection and lubrication extend spring life and catch problems early.
If you suspect spring trouble, don't operate the door. A broken spring can cause the door to fall suddenly. Schedule a free quote with Garage Door Riverside or call (951) 724-5612 for same-day inspection and repair. We serve Riverside and surrounding areas with transparent pricing and honest recommendations.
Your safety is the priority. Let professionals handle your springs.
How do I know if my garage door spring is broken? A snapped spring causes the door to open slowly, hang unevenly, or not open at all. You may hear a loud bang. The door may feel heavier than usual or sag on one side.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself? No. Springs store extreme tension and can cause serious injury or death if mishandled. Only licensed technicians should replace springs. The risk far outweighs any cost savings.
How much does a garage door spring cost? Torsion springs run $200 to $400 each. Extension springs cost $100 to $200 each. Labor, parts, and same-day service fees add to the total. Call for a specific estimate.
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion springs last 7 to 9 years. Extension springs last 5 to 7 years. Lifespan depends on use frequency, climate, and maintenance. Riverside's heat can shorten spring life slightly.
Should I replace both springs even if only one broke? Yes. If your door has two springs, replace both at the same time. Matching springs ensure balanced operation and prevent the second spring from failing soon after.