The Basics of a Garage Door Spring

Garage door coils or springs come in varying shapes and sizes. But, they all serve the same purpose. They're used to counterbalance the door's heavy weight so it can be lifted and closed with ease and safety. Here's some general information about them that you should know. 

What Are Their Different Types?

Garage springs come in two types: torsion and extension. Each of them works in its own distinct way. Knowing how their mechanisms work is essential in recognizing signs of wear and tear.

·         Torsion – This type uses torque springs, which are tightly wound metals that generate the force needed to lift the door. Depending on its weight and size, a torsion system consists of either one or two coils.

      Torsions last twice as long as extension springs and can support heavy weight. Their overall balance is also more stable and enables easier operation of the garage door. They also have fewer exposed parts, which makes them safer to use. They tend to be more expensive, though.

·         Extension – They're a pair of stretched coils that run on both sides of the garage door, and it expands and contracts when operated. Extension springs work by using a counterbalance system of pulleys and cables.

Extensions are usually more economical. Since they cost less, they're commonly used for residential garages. Unlike torsions, they have more exposed parts. This makes them more vulnerable to breakage.

How Long Do Springs Last?

Most garage doors come from manufacturers with springs having a life span of about 10,000 cycles. This refers to each time you open and close one. If used more than twice a day, the coils will last for a shorter time. With average use, homeowners can expect them to last for 5 to 7 years.

What Happens When They Break?

Springs can break due to rust, poor maintenance, or wear and tear. Over time, they grow weaker, and once they break, the door won't be able to open or close. This may result in different issues such as a security breach or inability to access your garage. In some cases, a faulty coil leads to injuries because of the door suddenly falling.

As small as they are, coils play a significant part in operating your door. Once you notice something wrong with them, don't attempt to fix them yourself. This can be dangerous and requires professional work. Thankfully, a lot of companies offer garage spring replacement in Forsyth, IL.