When we undertake a garage door repair project, we find two types of garage door springs: torsion and tension. Although these two types of springs perform the same function, they do not operate in the same manner. If you need a garage door spring replacement, but don’t know which one you have, we can inspect your garage door and make the necessary repairs. In the meantime, let’s explore torsion and extension springs and discover how they differ from one another.
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are a relatively new concept for garage doors. A spring bar/torsion tube mounted on the header on the inside of the garage door opening contains center brackets that hold it in place. Cables attach to the bracket on each side of the garage door. The cables travel up the side of the door. They wind around a drum as the door opens and unwind as the door closes.
The springs create the force to open and close the door while the cables and drums support the weight. Experts rate torsion springs according to how many open/close cycles they can sustain (example: 10,000, 20,000, or 30,000 cycles). While some garage door systems work well with just one spring, we recommend a two-spring system for added support and extended performance. The weight of the door will also determine how many springs we’ll need to install.
Extension Springs
Before torsion springs, extension springs were the only real standard for garage door systems. During a garage door installation, we mount the springs on both sides of the door. We attach them to the track supports at one end and to the tracks at the other end. Like the torsion springs, extension springs attach to the bottom bracket but pass through a series of pulleys before aligning with the track.
Adjustment clips keep the spring and door balanced. Since extension springs are difficult to balance, you should contact a professional garage door repair service like Garage Doors Plus, LLC to perform the work. All extension springs contain safety cables that hold the spring and stabilize the door to keep it from slamming down. If the cables break, you should call us immediately for a garage door spring replacement. We can take out the springs and put new springs in so that the door won’t break.
Complete Garage Door Spring Replacement
Garage Doors Plus, LLC specializes in garage door repair for homeowners in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota. Our certified technicians have the training and skill necessary to repair or replace full doors, door openers, garage door tracks, screens, and springs. We work on all types and brands of garage doors. To schedule a repair, contact us at 612-760-7551, or you can message us on our contact page.
Posted in Garage News