Some of the most vital elements in overhead door systems are the garage door springs. Springs are the “arms” of your garage, raising and lowering the door safely and efficiently. Every garage uses one of two spring types: torsion or extension. Here’s are the differences, benefits, and maintenance tasks required for each type.

Extension Springs

These are the more traditional garage door springs that are still preferred in garages with low headroom. The springs work by fully expanding and contracting to operate the pulley system that raises and lowers the door. They do require more maintenance, as more weight and momentum are placed on the springs. This jerky motion can also knock off the door alignment, which is a sign it’s time to replace the springs. Other indications include visible wear and tear on the springs, as well as a gap in the coils. The springs should last about 10,000 cycles each.

Torsion Springs

The word torsion means “to turn” in Latin, and that’s the type of work it does at your house. This newer spring system raises and lowers your garage door by rotating large springs mounted to a tube or bar on the inside header of the door. This motion allows for faster speeds and steadier control, which means your garage door springs will last twice as long as extension springs — approximately 15,000-20,000 cycles. You know it’s time to replace the springs when you manually lift your door to the top or mid-level and it sinks even a little.

How to Tell Which Springs Your Garage Door Uses

Even if you aren’t an expert, discovering which springs are in your garage system isn’t hard. Torsion springs are often larger, connected to metal tubes, and mounted above the garage door. Extension springs are the exact opposite: they are smaller, connected to pulleys, and are mounted along the side of the door.

If you’ve noticed more wear and tear on your garage door springs, less efficient movement, or any other signs that concern you, call the experts at C & C Garage Door and Services, LLC, in Middletown, OH. Their team has been providing everything from roof repair to window replacement to the tri-state area for over 20 years. To learn more about their services, visit their website or call (513) 423-6205.