Ultimate Guide to Commercial Doors Torsion Springs in 2024

All garage doors need torsion springs to work properly. The tightly wound metal coils provide the necessary counterforce to make it much easier to close and open the garage door. Broken torsion springs can render a door inoperable, so you’ll need to replace any broken springs ASAP.

To help you out, the team at Raynor Garage Doors put together this comprehensive guide on garage door torsion springs. We will talk about how torsion springs work, the different types of torsion springs, and when they need to be replaced. 

How Do Garage Door Torsion Springs Work?

Garage doors are heavy, and they need a good deal of force to pull and keep them open. Garage door torsion springs provide a counterbalancing force as they wind and unwind that counteracts the weight of the door, so the door is easier to open and close. 

Torsion vs Extension Springs

To compare and contrast torsion springs with extension springs, torsion springs sit over the top of the door perpendicular to the metal tracks, while extension springs sit parallel to the garage door tracks. Extension springs are the older option and are more common in older homes, while torsion springs are more common on modern garage doors. 

Torsion springs carry several benefits over older extension spring wires:

• Torsion springs are stronger and can produce a larger amount of force, allowing smoother door operation. 
• Since they are in the center of the garage door, torsion springs are easier to balance. 
• Most torsion springs come encased in a metal shaft, so they are less of an injury risk if they break or snap. 
• Torsion springs require less vertical and horizontal space, so they work very well for small garage doors. 
• At the same time, the increased force means double-torsion springs are good for heavier doors. 

Types of Torsion Springs

There are two main types of torsion springs that modern garage doors use. 

• Single torsion springs have a smaller wire size and are usually for single-car garage doors. 
• Double torsion springs are larger and are mostly for double-car and larger garage doors. 

Signs of Bad Torsion Springs

Like all garage components, garage door torsion springs will eventually wear down and will require replacement. Below are some of the most common signs of bad torsion springs we encounter while out on the job. 

• Loud scraping noises when the door opens and closes
• Slow, uneven door movements when opening or closing
• Large gaps in between spring coils
• Crooked or uneven garage door
• Visible rust and spring damage
• The door sags along the midline

Without torsion springs, you won’t be able to open your door without a lot of effort, so it’s in your best interest to replace them as quickly as possible to avoid unnecessary interruptions. 

Tips for Maintaining Torsion Springs

Homeowners can do a lot of things to take care of their torsion springs and ensure they last as long as possible. It’s best to have an expert garage door technician take a look at your setup to provide the best recommendation for new hardware, if needed, and to perform maintenance if any is required.

• Get in the habit of visually inspecting torsion springs at least once a month. Look for any cracks or gaps in the springs. 
• Try to minimize the number of times you open your garage door. The average person uses their garage door about three to five times a day, or about 1,500 times per year. 
• Lubricate your torsion springs at least once or twice a year. Most lubricant sprays are silicone or lithium-based. 
• Call an authorized Raynor Garage Door dealer for onsite support 

Torsion Spring FAQs

Below are some of the most common questions our team at Raynor Garage Doors receives. 

Can I Change Torsion Springs on My Own?

Torsion springs are under an extremely high amount of tension and if handled improperly, can recoil or snap, which could cause serious injury. It is in your best interest to hire an expert trained to remove and replace your springs safely. Call an authorized Raynor dealer to ensure the best possible outcome.

How Long Do Torsion Springs Last?

Most torsion springs will last between seven and 10 years, assuming regular cleaning and maintenance. Failing to clean and protect your springs can reduce their lifespan to less than five years. Most torsion springs are rated for 10,000 open/close cycles, so if you use your garage door more frequently, the coils will age faster. 

What Size Springs Do I Need?

Different doors need different-sized springs. If you get the wrong-sized springs, the door won’t work properly. The manufacturer should specify what size springs are necessary, but you can also hire an expert to size and replace the springs for you. 

Can You Repair Torsion Springs?

It may be possible to fix a broken or stretched spring, depending on the specific damage. However, repairing a broken spring is usually less ideal than just replacing the spring. 

How Long Does It Take to Replace Torsion Springs?

It will usually take about one to two hours for a professional to replace the springs on your garage door. Larger springs will take longer to replace. 

How Do You Adjust Torsion Springs?

A special tool is required to tighten or loosen torsion springs. Adjusting the amount of force the springs produce is an important part of balancing your garage door. 

Are Garage Door Springs Covered Under Home Warranty?

Typically, a home warranty does not cover garage door springs.

Can I Use My Garage Door With a Broken Spring?

Attempting to use your garage door with a broken spring could cause injury to you as well as damage to the automatic garage door opener. 

High-Quality Garage Door Products

Whether you need new commercial door torsion springs or want to replace your entire garage door, Raynor Garage Doors is here to help. We have over 75 years of experience providing industry-leading garage door systems and products. Attention to detail and expertise sets us apart from our competitors!