Garage door springs are an extremely important part of owning a garage door. In fact, garage door spring repairs are one of the most frequent repairs that we deal with. This is because garage door springs will run for about 10,000 cycles—a cycle being one opening and closing. This usually lasts homeowners about 8-10 years. Once the springs start to wear out, they will break, leaving you with a broken garage door spring and a big mess. That’s why it’s important to choose a proper garage door spring so that you can get a garage door spring repaired quickly and efficiently. But what are these different types of springs?
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are the most common type of springs used in homeowners’ garage doors. They are extremely versatile and are the most durable type of garage door spring. These springs operate by rotating as they draw up the garage door. These springs often last even longer than 10,000 cycles. They keep a controlled, smooth motion that keeps the garage door steady. While these springs have more parts than TorqueMaster springs, they require less than extension springs. Not to mention that these springs are designed to break in a safe way when their time comes.
Pros
Cons
- Have a longer lifespan
- Easy to acquire
- Stable
- Usually breaks in a safe way
- Versatile
- More parts needed
- Easily seen
Extension Springs
Extension springs operate exactly as their name implies. They fully expand and contract in order to draw the garage door upwards. Extension springs will typically last the standard 10,000 cycles. They require a lot of parts though. Because of all these parts, these springs can result in jerky motions. The garage door may start to open slowly and then rush upwards quickly all of a sudden. When these springs break, they can prove dangerous as they have been known to fly out when they snap. On the plus side, they’re the least expensive option and take up the least amount of room. They’ve been around a long time and are known to be a reliable method.
Pros
Cons
- Least expensive
- Can be reliable
- Can be dangerous when broken
- Require lots of parts
TorqueMaster Springs
TorqueMaster springs are a trademarked spring exclusively made by Wayne Dalton manufacturers. This type of garage door spring is all about simplicity and a clean look. The idea behind these springs is to conceal the actual springs in a tube above the door. This provides a cleaner look while allowing for a bit more space. The TorqueMaster spring is also all one part, allowing for an easier installation.
There are some downsides to these springs, however. Because they are a trademarked brand, they come with quite a price. And they can only be installed by Wayne Dalton. In addition, because the springs are concealed, it might not be obvious when one breaks. This can burn out the motor if not detected soon. In addition, these springs can only be used with Wayne Dalton garage doors.
Pros
Cons
- Have a clean look
- Allows for more room overhead
- Good quality
- TorqueMaster is trademarked
- Can be difficult to tell if damaged,
- A pricier option than others
- Only used with Wayne Dalton doors
What’s the Best Option?
Here at DC Garage Door & Services, we recommend using Torsion springs for your garage door. Torsion springs are the most reliable as well as the safest option for your home. Our expert team of technicians know just how to install and maintain these springs so that you never have to worry about them.
Contact DC Garage Door & Services Today
It can be difficult to decide which type of garage door spring you need for your home. With so many options, the task can become a little daunting. If you find yourself needing a broken spring replacement in Lombard IL, give DC Garage Door & Services a call. Our representatives will help you get the right type of garage door spring for your home. Call us today for garage door spring services!
