2026-09-08 7 min read
Let's cut through the confusion about garage door springs. Most homeowners in Hanson don't know whether they have torsion or extension springs until one breaks. That gap in knowledge costs you time, money, and peace of mind. Here's what you actually need to know: torsion springs sit above your garage door opening and twist to lift the weight. Extension springs run along the sides of your door and stretch to do the same job. One is safer, more durable, and more common in modern homes. The other is cheaper upfront but riskier when it fails.
Your garage door weighs 300 to 500 pounds. Springs counterbalance that load so your opener doesn't burn out in months. Without springs, your opener would be working against pure dead weight every single time.
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs mount horizontally above the door opening on a metal shaft. When the door closes, the springs wind up like a clock spring. When you hit the opener button, they unwind and lift the door. Most newer homes and all commercial setups use torsion springs. They're centered, balanced, and distribute force evenly across the door.
Torsion springs last 7 to 9 years with normal use. They're built tough and fail predictably. When they snap, the door stays put instead of crashing down.
Extension Springs
Extension springs hang vertically along each side of your door frame. They stretch as the door closes and contract as it opens. Older homes and budget installations often use these. They're cheaper to install but come with real safety risks.
When an extension spring snaps, there's nothing stopping the door from falling. That's why most building codes now require safety cables running through them. If you have extension springs without cables, call us immediately.
The type of spring you have directly affects repair expenses, safety, and how long you'll go between service calls.
Torsion spring replacement typically costs more than extension because they require precision installation and balance. But they last longer and rarely cause injuries. Extension springs are cheaper to replace but fail sooner and present a genuine hazard to kids and pets.
If you're unsure which type you have, look above your door. See a thick horizontal spring? That's torsion. See two smaller springs running up the sides? That's extension. Don't try to touch or adjust either one yourself. Spring tension is invisible and lethal.
**Need garage door springs in Hanson today?** Call 17816784076. We cover same-day service across Hanson and Plymouth County.
A snapped spring is not a DIY fix. The door won't open, the tension is unpredictable, and improper reinstallation can damage your opener or injure you. We've seen too many DIY attempts go wrong.
If your door feels heavier than usual, opens slowly, or makes grinding noises, your springs are wearing out. Read our guide on 5 warning signs before disaster strikes to catch problems early.
The cost of a preventive inspection is nothing compared to emergency repair fees or emergency room visits. We offer free estimates and can schedule same-day service if you call before noon.
Springs don't fail overnight. They weaken gradually over thousands of cycles. Lubricating your door hardware, keeping the track clean, and balancing the door reduces strain on springs by 20 to 30 percent.
If you haven't had your door serviced in over a year, it's time. A professional tune-up and inspection catches worn springs before they snap. That's the difference between a $300 repair and a $600 emergency call.
For a full breakdown of what spring replacement actually costs in your area, check our detailed cost guide for spring replacement.
Don't guess about your springs. Call Hanson Garage Doors at 17816784076 or schedule a free quote and we'll inspect your door, identify your spring type, and give you an honest estimate with no pressure. We serve Hanson, Rockland, and surrounding towns with same-day availability most days.
Springs fail fast once they start. The sooner you know what you have and when it's wearing out, the safer your home and the lighter your wallet.
How long do garage door springs typically last? Torsion springs last 7 to 9 years under normal use (about 10,000 cycles). Extension springs fail sooner, around 5 to 7 years. Frequency of use, climate, and maintenance all affect lifespan. Regular lubrication can extend the life by a year or two.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself? No. Springs hold dangerous tension even when the door is closed. Improper removal or installation can cause serious injury or death. Always hire a licensed technician. It's not worth the risk or the liability.
What's the difference in cost between torsion and extension spring replacement? Torsion springs typically cost $200 to $400 per spring plus labor. Extension springs run $150 to $300 per pair plus labor. Torsion is pricier but lasts longer and is safer. Most homeowners break even within 5 years.
How do I know if my spring is about to break? Listen for creaking or grinding sounds. The door may feel heavier or rise unevenly. You might notice it closing faster than it opens. Any of these signs mean call a pro before the spring snaps completely.
Is it cheaper to replace both springs or just the broken one? If both springs are the same age, replace both. When one fails, the other is usually close behind. Replacing both at once costs less in labor and prevents a second emergency call in weeks.