The garage door springs are perhaps the most essential part of your garage door system. And yet, many homeowners don’t understand the basic elements of springs, the different types, how they work, and the difference between torsion and extension springs. We’ve decided to compile a list of terminology related to garage door springs so that you can be a more informed consumer when making decisions surrounding your garage door systems, which replacement springs to purchase, and what springs work best for your garage.
Extension Spring
Extension springs are the first type of garage door spring found on residential garage doors. These are usually only found in older garages. Their design is less efficient, durable, or safe than newer options. Extension springs run parallel to the tracks and have a series of safety cables that help them provide balance. They are harder to balance, however, and they can be much more dangerous if they snap or break. Fortunately, if you need new extension springs and/or hardware, we’ve got a full selection to keep your garage in good working order.
Torsion Spring
Torsion springs are also found on residential garage doors. They are more common in newer construction and installations and have several unique features that make them work with all types of garage doors. These springs are mounted above the door opening on the wall and include cables wrapped around a drum that pull the door up. These springs come in several sizes to meet various weight requirements. Check out our selection of sizes available for all your garage door spring needs.
Garage Door Spring Cone
The garage door spring cone is responsible for helping to mount your garage door torsion springs and support opening and closing the door. There are winding and stationary models available, and the springs install directly onto them for maximum torque and performance.
Cycle
When discussing garage door springs and other mechanisms, people sometimes refer to the number of cycles instead of the years that a garage door will last. A single cycle is one whole opening and closing of the garage door. For example, leaving the garage in the morning for work and returning afterward is two cycles in one day. Some garage doors will last for 10,000 cycles, but some have a life expectancy of 20,000 cycles or more.
Torque
Torsion springs are under immense torque pressure. Torque refers to the power the springs are operating to open or close the door. Typically, the higher the torque, the more durable the garage door and its springs need to be. Torsion springs generally have a higher amount of torque than extension springs.
Call the Pros for Help with Garage Door Springs
No matter what type of springs you have on your garage door or what they need, it’s always better to leave repairing and replacing these dangerous parts to the professionals. The higher the torque, the higher possibility that if a spring breaks or gets damaged, it could become a powerful projectile that causes damage or injury. It’s helpful to know what’s going on with your garage door system, including your extension springs and torsion springs. It’s also important to know when to call in the pros. If your garage door springs need attention, get in contact with a garage door repair specialist today.