2026-09-04 7 min read
If you've ever dealt with a stuck garage door, you know how frustrating it is. Most of the time, a snapped spring is the culprit. But here's what many Wellington homeowners don't realize: the type of spring matters. Torsion springs and extension springs fail differently, cost different amounts to replace, and require different safety precautions. Understanding which one you have can save you money and headaches.
Your garage door weighs 300 to 500 pounds. That's not lifting itself. Springs counterbalance that weight, making it possible for your opener to raise and lower the door without burning out. Without springs, your garage door opener would fail within weeks.
There are two main types: torsion springs and extension springs. Both do the same job but work in completely different ways. Torsion springs wind up like a clock spring, storing energy as they twist. Extension springs stretch and contract, like a rubber band. Most modern homes in Wellington use torsion springs because they're safer and last longer (typically 7 to 9 years with normal use).
Torsion springs mount horizontally above your garage door opening. They twist when the door closes, storing mechanical energy. When you open the door, that stored energy releases, helping your opener lift the weight.
Here's why they're better: torsion springs are enclosed in a metal shaft, so if they snap, the broken pieces stay contained. They also last longer and handle frequent cycles better than extension springs. Most newer installations use torsion springs for this reason.
The trade-off? They're more expensive to replace. A torsion spring replacement typically costs between $200 and $400 per spring, plus labor. But because they last 7 to 9 years instead of 5 to 7, you replace them less often. If you need a professional inspection or want an accurate estimate for your specific situation, Garage Door Wellington can assess your setup and provide a same-day estimate. Get a free spring replacement estimate to see exactly what you're looking at.
Extension springs mount vertically on both sides of your door opening. They stretch as the door closes and contract as it opens. You'll typically find two of them, one on each side.
Extension springs are cheaper to buy and install. A replacement might run $150 to $250 per spring, plus labor. But here's the catch: when an extension spring snaps, the broken pieces can fly across your garage with serious force. That's why safety cables are critical. These cables run through the center of the spring to catch the pieces if it breaks.
Older homes in Wellington and the surrounding Palm Beach County area commonly have extension springs. If yours are original to the house and you haven't replaced them in over 5 years, they're on borrowed time. Read more about why snapped springs happen and what to do if yours breaks today.
Stand in your garage and look above the door. If you see a long metal shaft with springs wound around it running horizontally, you have torsion springs. If you see two springs mounted vertically on either side of the door, one above the other, you have extension springs.
Not sure? That's fine. Garage Door Wellington technicians can identify your setup over the phone and give you a cost estimate without a service call charge.
**Need garage door springs in Wellington today?** Call (561) 530-2287. we cover same-day service across the area.
Here's what affects the total cost: spring type, number of springs, your door's weight, and whether your opener needs adjustment afterward. A single torsion spring replacement runs $250 to $450 installed. Extension springs run $200 to $350 installed.
Many homeowners are surprised that both springs usually fail around the same time, even if only one is currently broken. Springs experience the same wear cycles, so replacing both at once saves money on labor and prevents another emergency call weeks later. Check our detailed 2026 pricing breakdown for a clearer picture of what you'll actually pay.
Never attempt DIY spring replacement. Springs are under extreme tension. A slip or mistake can cause serious injury. Always hire a professional. Same-day service is available for most emergencies in Wellington.
Springs last longer when your door operates smoothly. Keep the tracks clean, apply lubricant to moving parts twice a year, and avoid forcing the door if it feels stuck. Heat and humidity in Wellington can accelerate wear, so regular maintenance is worth the small effort.
If your door feels heavy, jerky, or makes grinding noises, springs may be weakening. Don't wait for a complete failure. A quick inspection now prevents being locked out later.
Your garage door springs are the most critical safety component on your door. Whether you have torsion or extension springs, they deserve professional attention. Call (561) 530-2287 or schedule your spring inspection today.
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion springs typically last 7 to 9 years with normal use (about 10,000 cycles). Extension springs last 5 to 7 years. Frequent use or harsh weather shortens lifespan. Regular lubrication helps extend it.
Can I replace just one spring? Technically yes, but both springs experience identical wear. Replacing only one means the other will likely fail within weeks. Most professionals recommend replacing both at once to save labor costs and prevent repeat emergencies.
Is a snapped spring an emergency? Yes. A broken spring makes the door unsafe and impossible to operate safely. Don't attempt manual opening. Contact a technician immediately for same-day repair.
Why are torsion springs more expensive than extension springs? Torsion springs are more durable (longer lifespan), safer (enclosed design), and more complex to install. The higher upfront cost pays for itself over time through longer intervals between replacements and reduced injury risk.
Should I replace springs before they break? If springs are 7 to 9 years old (torsion) or 5 to 7 years old (extension), replacement during regular maintenance is smarter than waiting for failure. Preventive replacement costs less than emergency service.