The Differences Between Torsion and Extension Springs
When springs fail, the door can become extremely heavy, unbalanced, or unsafe to operate.
Garage door springs are one of the most critical parts of your garage door system — and they’re also one of the most misunderstood. Though springs are out of sight and often overlooked, they handle the bulk of the work every time your door opens and closes. Understanding the differences between torsion and extension springs helps you make better decisions about performance, safety, maintenance, and longevity.
Garage door springs are under extreme tension. They carry most of the door’s weight and help your opener function smoothly. When springs fail, the door can become extremely heavy, unbalanced, or unsafe to operate. Choosing the right spring type — and maintaining it properly — makes your garage safer, quieter, and more reliable. Below, we break down how torsion springs and extension springs differ, how each type performs, and what those differences mean for homeowners.
What Garage Door Springs Do
Before diving into the types, it helps to understand the purpose of springs. Garage doors can weigh several hundred pounds. Without springs, that weight would fall entirely on the opener motor or on your muscles if you tried lifting manually. Springs counterbalance the door’s weight so it moves up and down with minimal effort and without putting unnecessary strain on other components.
Springs work by storing mechanical energy — when the door is lowered, they stretch or twist under tension, and as the door rises, they release that stored energy to assist with lifting. Over time, this cycle wears out, and eventually, they need repair or replacement. How springs are mounted and how they operate define the two main systems: torsion springs and extension springs.
Torsion Springs: Performance, Precision, and Control
Torsion springs are the most common spring type on residential garage doors today due to their strength, reliability, and smoother operation. These springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door opening on a solid shaft. Inside, they twist under tension as the door closes and release that tension as the door opens.
This twist mechanism allows torsion springs to provide a high degree of control and balance during movement. The stored energy applies a consistent force across the door’s travel, which contributes to smoother motion and quieter operation. Because torsion springs are mounted above the door, they also take up less space and reduce stress on the opener motor. Torsion systems typically use one large spring or a pair of matched springs that divide the load for greater stability.
Another advantage of torsion springs is that they generally last longer. They’re engineered to endure a higher number of cycles (one cycle equals one open + close) before needing replacement. Their balance and tension adjustments can also be fine-tuned more precisely, which makes them less likely to cause binding or uneven movement.
However, torsion springs — like all springs — are under intense tension. Adjusting or replacing them requires professional tools and training, and doing it yourself can be dangerous if you’re not experienced.
Extension Springs: Simple Design, Strong Support
Extension springs are the older and more traditional spring type. Unlike torsion springs, they are mounted alongside the door tracks — one on each side — and stretch or “extend” as the garage door closes. As the door opens, the springs contract back to their original length, literally pulling the door upward.
Because of their position, extension springs distribute the load along both sides of the door. When they operate correctly, they provide reliable support and help offset the door’s weight. Their design is simpler and often more affordable up front than torsion systems, which is why many older garage doors still use them.
That said, extension springs tend to be noisier than torsion springs because their movement creates vibration along the tracks. They also operate under greater dynamic motion, which can lead to shorter life cycles and earlier replacement compared to properly configured torsion systems.
Another consideration is safety: extension springs are frequently paired with safety cables that prevent them from flying out if they break. Without these cables, a snapped extension spring can shoot outward dangerously because of the tension it releases. This makes safety cables essential for extension spring setups.
Key Differences Between Torsion and Extension Springs
Understanding these differences helps you make an informed choice when repairing or upgrading your garage door system:
Location and Operation
Torsion springs are mounted above the door and twist on a shaft to provide lift.
Extension springs run along the tracks and stretch/contract to lift the door.
Performance and Smoothness
Torsion springs generally operate more smoothly and quietly.
Extension springs tend to be louder and can cause more vibration.
Durability and Life Span
Torsion springs typically offer longer service life and greater cycle ratings.
Extension springs usually require replacement sooner.
Adjustability and Stability
Torsion systems allow for fine-tuned tension adjustments, improving door balance.
Extension systems have a simpler tension profile but less precise control.
Space and Aesthetics
Torsion springs are compact above the door and unobtrusive.
Extension springs stretch down beside the tracks, which can be more visible.
Cost Considerations
Torsion systems often cost more upfront but pay off in longer life and smoother performance.
Extension systems are usually less expensive initially but may cost more over time in maintenance.
How to Know If Your Springs Need Repair or Replacement
Whether you have torsion or extension springs, they wear out eventually. A typical residential spring may be rated for a certain number of cycles, and heavy usage shortens that lifespan. Signs of wear include:
Loud noises like snapping, popping, or creaking
The door feels heavy or hard to lift manually
Uneven door movement or imbalance
Visible gaps or separations in spring coils
Excess vibration or rattling during operation
Obvious wear, rust, or corrosion on springs
If you notice any of these, don’t delay. Spring issues often worsen over time, and a broken spring leaves the door unbalanced and unsafe to operate. Because these components are under high tension, professional repair or replacement is strongly recommended.
Why Professional Spring Services Matter
Springs are deceptively powerful and deceptively dangerous. They store large amounts of energy that can cause injury or property damage if released improperly. Professionals have specialized tools and training for:
Safely releasing and winding spring tension
Matching springs to your specific door weight and size
Balancing the door for smooth, safe operation
Installing safety cables and proper hardware
Identifying related issues like worn cables or misaligned tracks
Attempting DIY spring repair is risky and often leads to additional damage or unsafe conditions. A qualified technician ensures the job is done right and the door operates reliably afterward.
Which Spring Type Is Right for You?
The answer depends on your door size, usage frequency, noise concerns, and long-term value goals:
Torsion springs are often the best choice for heavier doors, frequent use, quieter operation, and longer life.
Extension springs can be suitable for lighter doors, budget-focused upgrades, or doors that don’t get heavy daily use.
If you’re unsure which system you currently have or which one best fits your home, a professional inspection helps clarify options. Technicians can assess your door’s weight, usage patterns, opener compatibility, and safety needs before recommending the right spring solution.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garage Door Springs
What’s the main difference between torsion and extension springs?
Torsion springs are mounted above the garage door and twist to counterbalance the door’s weight, while extension springs run along the tracks and stretch to assist with lifting.
Which type of garage door spring is more durable?
Torsion springs are generally more durable and provide a higher number of open and close cycles before needing replacement.
Why are torsion springs quieter?
Torsion springs operate more smoothly and transfer less vibration to the tracks and hardware, resulting in quieter door operation.
Are extension springs safe?
Yes. Extension springs are safe when they are properly installed with safety cables that prevent them from causing damage if they break.
Can garage door springs be replaced individually?
Yes. Individual springs can be replaced, but professionals often recommend replacing both springs at the same time to maintain balanced and reliable performance.
Phoenician Garage Door & Repair specializes in efficiently accomplishing all garage door jobs, from garage door drum replacement and garage door spring replacement to garage door cable repair and replacement. We offer easy online scheduling. Call (602) 610-0112.
