How To Select Garage Door Springs

How to Select Garage Door Springs (Without Losing Your Mind)

Hey there, fellow garage door enthusiasts! Let’s talk about something we’ve all faced at least once: the dreaded broken spring. You know the sound—that heart-stopping BANG that makes you wonder if your garage just transformed into a scene from a disaster movie. But fear not! We’re here to break down everything you need to know about selecting the right garage door springs. And hey, if you’re in Hamilton, Burlington, or Brantford, we’ve got a little local secret to share (spoiler: it’s Brigs Garage Doors).

Why Garage Door Springs Matter More Than You Think

Let’s start with the basics. Garage door springs are the unsung heroes of your garage. They do the heavy lifting—literally. Without them, your door would either slam shut like a guillotine or refuse to budge, leaving you stranded in the driveway. There are two main types of springs you’ll encounter:

1. Torsion Springs: Mounted horizontally above the door, these bad boys use torque (twisting force) to lift the door. They’re durable, quiet, and ideal for heavier doors.
2. Extension Springs: These run vertically along the tracks and stretch to provide lifting power. They’re cheaper but louder and better suited for lighter doors.

Pro Tip: If your door sounds like it’s auditioning for a heavy metal band every time it moves, you might need a spring adjustment—or a replacement.

Choosing the Right Spring: A Crash Course

Step 1: Know Your Door’s Weight

Garage doors aren’t one-size-fits-all. A single-car door might weigh 130–180 lbs, while a double-car door can tip the scales at 350+ lbs. Springs are rated by “cycle life” (how many times they can open/close before retiring). For most homeowners, a 10,000-cycle spring works fine. But for heavy use (like a busy family or a commercial garage door repair situation), opt for 25,000+ cycles.

Step 2: Torsion vs. Extension—The Showdown

Let’s settle this once and for all with a quick comparison:

Hot Take: We’re team torsion springs all the way. Sure, they cost more, but would you rather save $50 now or dodge a flying spring later?

Step 3: DIY or Call a Pro?

Replacing springs isn’t for the faint of heart. Torsion springs, in particular, are under insane tension. One wrong move and… well, let’s just say you don’t want to become a DIY horror story. If you’re in Hamilton and feeling unsure, Brigs Garage Doors handles garage door torsion spring replacements daily. Their team’s faster than a caffeinated squirrel—and way safer.

When to Wave the White Flag and Call a Pro

Look, we get it. You’ve watched 17 YouTube tutorials and own a toolbox that would make Bob Vila proud. But garage door springs are like relationships: sometimes, you need to admit it’s time to call in reinforcements. Here’s when to pick up the phone:

• The Door Won’t Budge (At All): If adjusting the springs doesn’t help, you might need a full garage door spring replacement.
• Cables Are Frayed or Snapped: Springs and cables work together. If one fails, the other isn’t far behind. Garage door cable repair is a job for pros.
• The Tracks Look Crooked: Misaligned tracks strain the springs. Garage door track alignment requires precision tools—and patience.

FYI: Brigs Garage Doors doesn’t just fix springs. They handle automatic garage door installation, garage door opener repair, and even garage door replacement if your current setup’s beyond saving. And their pricing? Transparent. No “mystery fees” here.

4 Burning Questions About Garage Door Springs (Answered)

1. “How much does spring replacement cost?”
   Prices vary, but torsion springs typically run $200–$400 (including labor). Extension springs are cheaper ($100–$200). Pro tip: Get quotes from local experts like Brigs.

2. “Can I replace just one spring?”
   If you have dual springs, replace both. Otherwise, the new spring will overcompensate and die young. Trust us—it’s not worth the risk.

3. “Why is my garage door suddenly so noisy?”
   Springs might need lubrication or adjustment. If that doesn’t work, call a garage door contractor to check for deeper issues.

4. “How long do springs last?”
   Torsion springs: 7–12 years. Extension springs: 4–8 years. Heavy use or harsh winters (looking at you, Burlington) can shorten that lifespan.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Your Garage Door Win

Selecting the right springs doesn’t have to feel like defusing a bomb. Whether you’re tackling a garage door spring adjustment or need a full automatic garage door opener installation, the key is knowing your limits. And if you’re near Hamilton, Brigs Garage Doors is just a call away. They’ve rescued countless locals from garage door disasters—and they’ll do it with a smile (and zero judgment).

So next time your door starts screeching like a banshee, remember: springs are replaceable. Your sanity? Priceless. 😉

Need Help? Contact Brigs Garage Doors for garage door repair in Hamilton, Burlington, or Brantford. They’re the experts your garage deserves.