2026-06-29 7 min read
Garage door springs come in two main types: torsion and extension. Torsion springs wind above your door and handle the heavy lifting; extension springs run along the sides and stretch under load. Most homes in Richmond use torsion springs because they're safer and last longer, typically 7 to 9 years with proper maintenance. If your door feels heavier than usual or won't open smoothly, a failing spring is almost certainly the culprit.
I've seen homeowners attempt spring repairs themselves. It never ends well. A snapped spring stores enough tension to cause serious injury or death. These aren't theatrical warnings. Springs hold 200 to 300 pounds of force. When they break, that energy releases instantly.
Torsion springs fail because the metal fatigues over time. Each cycle (open and close) weakens the coil slightly. Extension springs snap when the pulleys wear out or the cable frays. In Richmond's climate, temperature swings in winter and humidity in summer accelerate wear. A spring rated for 10,000 cycles might only last 7,000 in harsh conditions.
The safest move: call a technician at the first sign of trouble. If your door drops suddenly, makes loud noises, or feels unbalanced, stop using it and schedule a free quote with Richmond Garage Doors today.
Torsion springs mount horizontally above the door opening. They twist to lift and lower the door. Because the load distributes evenly across the coil, they handle the weight smoothly. They're the industry standard for residential doors. Torsion springs cost more upfront but outlast extension springs by years.
Extension springs stretch and contract on either side of the door. They're cheaper initially, which is why some budget doors use them. However, they wear faster and require safety cables to contain them if they snap. One spring failure can't stop the door cleanly; you risk the door slamming or tilting.
If you're not sure which type you have, look above the door opening. See a thick coil running left to right? That's torsion. See springs running parallel to the horizontal tracks? Those are extension springs.
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A single torsion spring replacement costs between $200 and $400 for parts and labor in Richmond. Extension spring repairs run $150 to $300. If both springs fail simultaneously (common), expect to pay for two replacements. Most homeowners overlook this: springs work in pairs. When one breaks, the other is usually weeks away from failure.
Richmond Garage Doors recommends replacing both springs at the same time, even if only one has snapped. Mismatched springs create uneven tension and accelerate wear on the door and opener. Same-day service is possible if you call before 2 PM on weekdays.
For a detailed breakdown of what affects your final bill, read our guide to garage door cost estimates. Labor rates, spring gauge, and door weight all factor into pricing.
Your garage door speaks. Listen to it. A loud bang or crack means a spring just failed. The door won't open past a few inches, or it opens unevenly (one side higher than the other). The door feels heavier when you manually try to lift it. The opener runs but the door doesn't move.
These are red flags. Don't ignore them hoping they'll improve. Springs that are failing will fail completely, often without warning. If your door is currently stuck or behaving erratically, review our emergency response guide for immediate steps.
Springs last longer with basic care. Lubricate the springs every six months using a garage door lubricant (not WD-40). Check the cable for fraying or kinks. Keep the tracks clean and aligned. A well-maintained door can stretch spring life to 10 years or beyond.
Regular maintenance also catches problems early. A technician inspecting your door during routine service can spot a weak spring before it snaps. This prevents the sudden failure that leaves you stranded or worse.
Visit our maintenance guide for the full checklist. Most homeowners can handle lubrication; everything else is best left to professionals.
Stop here. Do not attempt spring repair yourself. Not even if you've watched videos online. Not even if you're handy with cars or tools. Springs are different. The risk is severe injury.
Call Richmond Garage Doors if your spring is broken, cracked, or making unusual noises. We'll diagnose the problem, provide a written estimate, and schedule replacement at your convenience. Get in touch to book same-day service or find a time that works for your schedule.
Springs fail. That's normal. Handling them safely is what matters.
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion springs typically last 7 to 9 years with average use (4 to 8 cycles daily). Extension springs fail sooner, usually 5 to 7 years. Lifespan depends on maintenance, climate, and door weight. Harsh winter weather shortens lifespan.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself? No. Spring replacement requires specialized tools and training. The tension stored in a spring can cause serious injury or death if released improperly. Always hire a licensed technician for spring work.
What's the difference between torsion and extension springs? Torsion springs twist above the door opening and distribute weight evenly. Extension springs stretch on the sides and are cheaper but wear faster. Torsion is safer and lasts longer, making it the better long-term choice.
How much does a spring replacement cost in Richmond? A single torsion spring costs $200 to $400 installed. Extension springs run $150 to $300. Many technicians recommend replacing both springs simultaneously, doubling the cost but preventing premature failure of the second spring.
What does a snapped spring sound like? A snapped spring makes a loud bang or crack, like a gunshot. The door may drop suddenly or refuse to open. Stop using the door immediately and call a technician. Continuing to operate it risks further damage to the opener and door.