What’s the Difference Between Torsion Springs and Extension Springs?
You likely know that your springs are among the most important elements of your garage door system. If your garage door is not opening or closing correctly, it’s very often that a broken or worn out spring is the culprit.
If you’ve heard people talk about garage door springs before, you’ve most likely heard them called either torsion springs or extension springs. These are two different types of garage door springs — but what’s the difference, and which one is better?
Torsion Springs vs. Extension Springs
Torsion springs are large springs you will find in a shaft above your garage door. Extension springs are smaller springs attached to the sides of your garage door. Most doors will have one of these types of garage door springs— you would never have both types of spring on the same door, however, smaller garage doors (8×7 or 9×7) only have one spring.
When you open or close the door, if you have torsion springs, they wind or unwind to lift or lower your garage door. Extension springs fully expand or contract when opening or closing the door.
Learn More About Garage Door Spring Replacement
Which Are Better, Torsion Springs or Extension Springs?
In general, we prefer torsion springs to extension springs, for a number of reasons. One, even though torsion springs tend to be more expensive, they usually last twice as long, so you get a better value. Torsion springs tend to open and close your door in a more controlled motion as well. Extension springs usually operate with a jerky motion, and this puts more wear and tear on the springs with each use.
Extension springs also tend to require a bit more maintenance than torsion springs, as they have a more complicated apparatus, and it’s not as easy to get to all the areas you might need to lubricate. Additionally, if a torsion spring snaps, it can make a scary noise, but it usually stays on the shaft. If an extension spring snaps, it could fly off. This is why it’s important to have regular professional garage door maintenance to make sure your springs are in good shape.
Should I Choose Torsion Springs or Extension Springs?
So why would you use extension springs? They do have their advantages. In addition to being less expensive, extension springs are useful if you do not have a lot of overhead space in your garage for a torsion spring system. Extension springs will certainly do the job, and they are generally safe when you maintain them properly. If you’re not sure which type of springs you have or which kind you should get, ask your garage door professional.
For more information about torsion springs, extension springs, scheduling garage door maintenance or other garage door-related issues in the Spokane, Washington or Northern Idaho areas, please visit us today at Continental Door Company.
