2026-08-15
Your garage door relies on springs to lift a weight that can exceed 400 pounds. In our years serving Burbank, we've seen homeowners guess wrong about which type they have, leading to expensive service calls or unsafe DIY attempts. This post explains torsion and extension springs so you understand exactly what you're dealing with.
Garage doors in Burbank use one of two spring systems. Torsion springs mount horizontally above the door opening and twist to store and release energy. Extension springs run along the sides of the door track and stretch to do the same job. Each design has trade-offs in cost, lifespan, and repair complexity.
Torsion springs are the more common choice for residential doors because they're smoother, safer, and last longer. They typically handle 7 to 9 years of normal use. Extension springs are cheaper upfront but wear faster, often needing replacement after 5 to 7 years. The key difference: a snapped torsion spring usually means the door stays balanced. A snapped extension spring can let the door drop suddenly.
Choosing the wrong spring type during repair wastes money and creates safety risks. If you order extension springs for a torsion system (or vice versa), they won't fit, and you'll pay for a second service call. Worse, installing the wrong type can damage your garage door opener and track alignment.
Torsion springs cost more to replace (typically $200 to $400 per spring) but last longer and distribute wear evenly. Extension springs are cheaper upfront ($150 to $250), but you'll likely need them sooner. If your door is older, torsion is the smarter long-term investment, even if the initial estimate looks higher.
**Need garage door springs in Burbank today?** Call (509) 283-8247. we cover same-day service across the area.
A failing torsion spring will show wear gradually. Listen for a loud bang or crack when you open the door. The door may move unevenly or jerk to one side. Sometimes the opener won't lift the door at all, even though you hear the motor running.
Extension springs fail differently. You'll notice the door feels heavier to lift manually. It may not open fully or close smoothly. If an extension spring snaps, you'll hear a loud metallic twang, and the door may drop. Never attempt to open a door with a snapped spring. You risk serious injury.
If you've already experienced a snapped spring, our earlier post on snapped garage door springs in Burbank covers repair costs and replacement options in detail.
When a spring fails, waiting isn't an option. A broken spring makes your door a hazard and leaves your garage vulnerable. Burbank Garage Doors offers same-day estimates and emergency repair service. We'll identify which type you have, quote the cost upfront, and handle the replacement safely on your schedule.
Most homeowners don't realize they can schedule a free estimate for spring repair and maintenance without obligation. We'll assess the condition of both springs, check your opener, and recommend the best path forward. Many doors have one failing spring and a second one that's close behind, so we'll tell you if replacing both springs now saves you money later.
For a deeper look at repair costs and when replacement makes sense, check out our guide on garage door spring repair costs and replacement timing.
Springs last longer when your garage door system stays balanced and lubricated. Annual tune-ups catch problems early and keep springs from overworking. Dirt, rust, and lack of lubrication accelerate spring failure. A few dollars spent on maintenance saves hundreds in emergency repairs.
Regular garage door maintenance is often overlooked until something breaks. If you'd like to learn more about keeping your system running smoothly, our garage door maintenance guide explains how tune-ups save money and extend the life of all components, including springs.
Understanding whether you have torsion or extension springs helps you make informed decisions about repair and replacement. Torsion springs cost more upfront but last longer and perform better. Extension springs are cheaper initially but wear faster. Either way, ignoring a failing spring leads to safety hazards and bigger bills.
If you're hearing strange noises, noticing uneven door movement, or suspect a spring issue, don't wait. Call us at (509) 283-8247 for a same-day estimate, or contact Burbank Garage Doors online to book a service appointment. We'll handle the repair safely so your door works reliably again.
How long do garage door springs typically last? Torsion springs last 7 to 9 years under normal use. Extension springs wear faster, usually lasting 5 to 7 years. Lifespan depends on how often you use your door and whether you maintain lubrication and balance.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself? No. Spring replacement is dangerous and requires specialized tools and training. Stored energy in a compressed or extended spring can cause serious injury or death if released uncontrolled. Always hire a licensed technician.
What's the cost difference between torsion and extension spring replacement? Torsion springs typically cost $200 to $400 per spring. Extension springs cost $150 to $250. Labor adds $200 to $400 depending on complexity. Ask for an upfront estimate before work begins.
How do I know if my garage door spring is about to fail? Watch for jerky or uneven door movement, increased noise during operation, or the door feeling heavier when opened manually. A loud bang or metallic crack is a sign of immediate failure. Contact a technician right away.
Should I replace both springs at the same time? Yes, if one spring is failing, the other is usually close behind. Replacing both at once costs slightly more upfront but prevents a second emergency call weeks later and ensures balanced, even wear on your opener and tracks.