Spring Comparison · April 2026
Torsion vs Extension Springs
The two main types of garage door springs differ significantly in cost, safety, and longevity. Here is a detailed comparison to help you understand what you have and what to choose.
Torsion Springs
$200-$300
Single spring, parts + labor
- Longer lifespan (15,000-20,000 cycles)
- Safer — stays on shaft if broken
- Smoother, quieter operation
- Better door balance
- Handles heavier doors
- Higher upfront cost
- Cannot DIY safely
- Needs professional tools
Extension Springs
$100-$200
Single spring, parts + labor
- Lower cost to replace
- Simpler mechanism
- Possible DIY for experienced homeowners
- Parts widely available
- Shorter lifespan
- Can fly off when broken (dangerous)
- Noisier operation
- Less even door balance
- Must have safety cables
Full Comparison Table
| Feature | Torsion | Extension |
|---|---|---|
| Mounting location | Above the door on a shaft | Along side tracks |
| Mechanism | Twisting (torque) | Stretching (tension) |
| Average replacement cost | $200–$350 | $100–$200 |
| Lifespan | 15,000–20,000 cycles | 10,000 cycles |
| Safety when broken | Stays on shaft (controlled) | Can fly off (dangerous) |
| Noise level | Quiet | Noisier |
| Door balance | Excellent, even force | Good, can be uneven |
| Weight capacity | Up to 500+ lbs | Up to ~300 lbs |
| DIY-friendly | No — high tension danger | Possible with caution |
| Requires safety cables | No | Yes (essential) |
Which Type Does Your Door Have?
Look at the area directly above your garage door, from inside the garage. If you see a thick metal spring (or two) wound tightly around a metal shaft running horizontally above the door, you have torsion springs.
If instead you see long, stretchy springs running along the horizontal tracks on either side of the door (parallel to the ceiling), you have extension springs. Extension springs should always have a safety cable threaded through the centre.
Can You Convert from Extension to Torsion?
Yes. Many homeowners choose to upgrade from extension to torsion springs during replacement. The conversion typically costs $50-$100 more than a standard torsion replacement because a new spring bracket and shaft may be needed. This is a worthwhile investment for most doors — you get a safer, quieter, longer-lasting system.
Important: Whether you have torsion or extension springs, always replace both springs at the same time. The second spring is the same age and will fail soon after the first.