Garage door springs play a crucial role in the smooth operation of your garage door. They counterbalance the weight of the door, making it easy to open and close. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the different types of garage door springs, their functions, and why understanding them is essential for maintaining your garage door’s performance.
The Importance of Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs are under significant tension and bear the weight of the door. This tension allows the door to be raised and lowered with minimal effort. Without properly functioning springs, your garage door opener would struggle to lift the door, and manual operation would be extremely difficult.
Torsion Springs
What Are Torsion Springs?
Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door opening. They use torque to lift the door and are available in various sizes and lengths, depending on the weight and size of the door. Torsion springs are known for their durability and can last for many years with proper maintenance.
How Do Torsion Springs Work?
When the garage door closes, the torsion springs wind up, storing energy. As the door opens, the springs unwind, releasing the stored energy to lift the door. This mechanism ensures a smooth and balanced operation, reducing the strain on the garage door opener.
Extension Springs
What Are Extension Springs?
Extension springs are mounted on either side of the garage door track. They stretch and contract as the door opens and closes, counterbalancing the door’s weight. Extension springs are typically used for lighter garage doors and are a more affordable option compared to torsion springs.
How Do Extension Springs Work?
Extension springs stretch when the door is closed, storing energy. When the door is opened, the springs contract, releasing the stored energy to lift the door. While they are effective, extension springs can wear out faster than torsion springs and may require more frequent replacement.
Differences Between Torsion and Extension Springs
Durability and Lifespan
Torsion springs generally have a longer lifespan than extension springs. They can last up to 20,000 cycles, while extension springs typically last around 10,000 cycles. Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of both types of springs.
Safety and Performance
Torsion springs provide a smoother and more controlled operation, which reduces the risk of sudden movements and enhances safety. Extension springs, on the other hand, can produce a jerky motion and may require additional safety cables to prevent accidents if they break.
Cost and Installation
Extension springs are usually less expensive and easier to install than torsion springs. However, the initial cost savings may be offset by more frequent replacements and potential safety concerns.
Maintenance Tips for Garage Door Springs
Regular Inspections
Perform regular visual inspections of your garage door springs to check for signs of wear and tear. Look for gaps, rust, or any deformities in the springs.
Lubrication
Apply a high-quality lubricant to the springs every few months to reduce friction and prevent rust. This can help extend their lifespan and ensure smooth operation.
Professional Maintenance
While some maintenance tasks can be done by homeowners, it’s essential to have a professional technician inspect and maintain your garage door springs regularly. They have the expertise and tools to handle the high tension safely and effectively.
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of garage door springs and their functions is crucial for maintaining your garage door’s performance and safety. Whether you have torsion or extension springs, regular maintenance and professional inspections can help ensure they operate smoothly and last longer. If you notice any issues with your garage door springs, contact Springs and Openers for expert repair and replacement services.
