2026-06-27 7 min read
A customer called last Tuesday asking why her garage door felt different after the technician left. Turns out, she didn't realize she had a snapped spring until we arrived. Once we explained the difference between her torsion spring and what an extension spring does, everything clicked. Most homeowners in Halsey don't know which type they own, and that's okay. But understanding the difference could save you money, time, and headaches down the road.
Torsion springs mount horizontally above your garage door opening. They wind up like a clock spring, storing energy as they twist. When you open the door, that stored tension releases smoothly, lifting the weight evenly. Extension springs hang vertically on both sides of the door. They stretch and contract like rubber bands, pulling the door up as it opens.
The real difference? Torsion springs are the gold standard. They last longer (typically 7 to 9 years with normal use), balance the door better, and fail more predictably. Extension springs wear faster and can snap suddenly, sometimes with enough force to cause injury. If you have extension springs, safety cables run alongside them to catch a snapped spring before it falls.
Look above your garage door. If you see a spring wound around a horizontal metal shaft, you've got torsion. The shaft runs the full width of your opening, and the spring sits in the middle. If instead you see springs hanging down on each side of the door tracks, those are extension springs.
Torsion springs are heavier duty and more expensive to replace, but they're worth it. Extension springs are cheaper upfront but require more frequent maintenance and carry higher safety risks. We've seen too many DIY disasters with extension springs in the Willamette Valley, where moisture and temperature swings accelerate wear.
**Need garage door springs in Halsey today?** Call 1-541-625-1471. we cover same-day service across the area.
A snapped spring doesn't just stop your door from opening. It puts stress on your garage door opener, which can burn out the motor trying to lift dead weight. That repair costs way more than a spring replacement. If you have extension springs, a broken one can drop the door partially, pinching fingers or worse.
The cost difference is real. Torsion spring replacement runs $200 to $400 per spring in most cases, while extension springs might be $100 to $200. But torsion springs last nearly twice as long, so the per-year cost evens out. Want a clearer picture of what you'll actually pay? Get a same-day estimate from our team and we'll break down exact numbers for your door type.
Garage door springs are under extreme tension. A torsion spring can store enough energy to cause serious injury or death if it's mishandled. We've heard stories from techs across Salem and Eugene about DIY attempts gone wrong. Even if you're handy, this isn't the time to save money. Our garage door spring repair guide explains when to call a pro, and springs are always a pro job.
If you're already planning a replacement, check out our spring replacement cost breakdown to budget properly.
Both spring types last longer with basic maintenance. Keep tracks clean and lubricated. Listen for squeaking or grinding sounds. If your door jerks or moves unevenly, springs may be wearing unevenly. Early detection prevents a snapped spring emergency.
We offer full spring service including inspection, lubrication, and replacement. Most homeowners benefit from a check every 2 to 3 years, especially in our damp climate.
If you're not sure what springs you have, or if you've noticed your door acting sluggish or uneven, call us. A quick inspection costs nothing, and knowing your spring type puts you in control of maintenance decisions. Halsey Garage Doors has been on these calls for 15 years. We've seen every failure pattern, every DIY mistake, and every money-saving opportunity.
Don't wait for a snapped spring to leave you locked out. Schedule a free quote today and we'll tell you exactly what you're working with and what it'll cost to fix it right.
How long do garage door springs typically last? Torsion springs last 7 to 9 years under normal use with about 10,000 cycles. Extension springs wear faster, often failing around 5 to 7 years. Maintenance and climate affect lifespan significantly.
Can I replace just one spring if the other is fine? For torsion springs, we recommend replacing both at the same time. They wear together, and replacing one creates imbalance. Extension springs can be replaced individually, but the other is likely to fail soon after.
What does a snapped spring sound like? A loud bang or crack from your garage area. The door may drop partway or feel extremely heavy. Don't try to open it. Call for service immediately.
How much does spring replacement cost near me? Torsion springs run $200 to $400 each. Extension springs cost $100 to $200 each. Labor and door size affect the final bill. Call 1-541-625-1471 for a precise estimate.
Are torsion springs always better than extension springs? Yes, for safety, longevity, and balance. If your home has extension springs, upgrading to torsion is a smart investment that pays back over time.