Choose the right type of garage door springs for your home, and you'll enjoy years of smooth, reliable operation. But what's the difference between extension and torsion springs? How can you choose the best spring for your needs?
Compare the Two Types
Extension Springs
Extension springs are the most common type of garage door spring used in residential homes. They are typically located above the horizontal tracks along both sides of the garage door opening and stretch when the door is opened, counterbalancing its weight so that it can be opened or closed with minimal effort.
While extension springs are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, they do come with some drawbacks. First, they must be handled with extreme caution to avoid injury or damage because they are under tension when in use. Second, due to their design, they only provide a limited amount of lifting power. So if you have a particularly heavy garage door, an extension spring may not be powerful enough to lift it properly.
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs work differently than extension springs in that they provide power by twisting instead of stretching and contracting. They are mounted atop the garage door header (the horizontal area above the doorway) and can provide significantly more lifting power than extension springs — making them ideal for heavier doors. However, torsion springs require specialised tools and knowledge to install correctly, so they tend to cost more upfront than extension springs.
The good news is that properly installed torsion springs should last much longer than their counterparts. So if you have a heavier door or just want something that will last longer than an extension spring system, torsion springs could be a great option for you.
How Should You Proceed?
If you are thinking about installing a brand-new garage door opening system in your home, you can certainly choose between extension and torsion springs. However, these are only two options when it comes to the broad array of garage doors (and operating systems) in the market today. Don't forget much will depend on the configuration of your garage and the available space. After all, you may not be able to fit overhead door systems and may need to look at something which is simpler to operate and requires less space. In every situation, it's best to work with experts in the field. So, if you're ready to install a new garage door, get in touch with a contractor for their advice.