2026-08-06
Here's what most homeowners don't realize about garage door springs: they're not all the same. Most homes in Westwood rely on either torsion or extension springs, and they work in completely different ways. I've spent 15 years replacing both types, and knowing which one you have could save you time, money, and a dangerous DIY mistake.
Torsion springs sit above your garage door, wound tightly around a metal shaft. When you open the door, these springs unwind slowly, counterbalancing the door's weight so your opener doesn't have to do all the heavy lifting. They're the quieter, more reliable option and typically last 7 to 9 years with normal use. See our guide on essential garage door safety tips.
The big advantage of torsion springs is their lifespan and smooth operation. One spring does the job of two, so there's less moving parts to wear out. The downside? They're harder to replace and require professional help. Never attempt this yourself. A snapped spring under tension can cause serious injury.
Extension springs hang on both sides of your door frame, stretching and contracting as the door moves. Older homes and budget installations often use these. They're cheaper upfront but wear out faster because each spring bears half the load independently. If one fails, the other has to compensate, leading to uneven door movement and faster failure of the second spring. Read about weather stripping & seals in westwood, ma: what most homeowners miss.
I see extension spring failures more frequently than torsion failures, especially in homes that haven't had maintenance in years. They're also louder and require safety cables running through them to prevent snapping debris from flying across your garage.
**Need garage door springs in Westwood today?** Call 17819922790 for same-day service and a free estimate.
Springs fail because they cycle thousands of times. Each open and close cycle creates stress. Temperature swings in New England make this worse, especially in winter when cold metal becomes brittle. Lack of lubrication accelerates wear too.
If you're wondering about cost, check out our honest breakdown of garage door pricing in Westwood for context on where spring replacement fits in your overall budget. Torsion spring replacement typically runs $200 to $400 per spring. Extension springs cost $150 to $250 each. Labor adds $100 to $200 depending on difficulty and your location within Westwood or nearby towns like Newton or Needham.
A snapped spring doesn't mean your door is broken forever. It means your door won't open without strain on the opener, and opening it manually becomes dangerous. Don't ignore this. A snapped garage door spring needs immediate professional attention, not a temporary fix.
Regular lubrication matters. A light silicone spray on springs, hinges, and rollers every six months reduces friction and extends spring life by a year or more. It's simple work that costs almost nothing but prevents expensive downtime.
Keep an eye on your door's balance too. If it drifts up or down when you release it halfway, springs are weakening. That's your signal to call for an estimate before a complete failure leaves you stranded. We offer same-day service across Westwood and surrounding areas, so catching this early is smart.
If your door feels heavier than usual, moves slower, or makes creaking sounds, springs are likely wearing out. If you hear a loud bang and the door won't open, a spring has snapped. Both situations require professional repair.
Our team at Westwood Garage Doors handles spring replacement on residential and commercial doors. We offer a full range of services and can schedule a free quote in as little as 24 hours. Most replacements take 1 to 2 hours once we arrive.
Don't wait for a complete failure. Springs that are dying cost the same to replace as springs that have snapped, but catching them early prevents damage to your opener and keeps your door operating safely. Call us at 17819922790 or book your free estimate online today.
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion springs typically last 7 to 9 years. Extension springs may last 5 to 7 years. Lifespan depends on usage frequency, climate, and maintenance. More open and close cycles wear springs faster.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself? No. Springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury or death if they snap during removal. Always hire a licensed professional for spring replacement.
Why is my garage door so heavy to lift? A weakening or broken spring can't counterbalance the door's weight, putting all load on your opener and your muscles. This indicates imminent spring failure and requires professional service.
What's the difference between torsion and extension springs? Torsion springs sit above the door on a shaft and are more durable. Extension springs hang on both sides and wear faster. Torsion springs are quieter and more reliable but cost slightly more to replace.
Do I need to replace both springs at once? Yes. If one spring fails, the other is near the end of its life too. Replacing both prevents a second failure within weeks and keeps your door balanced and safe.