When your garage door isn’t functioning properly, the culprit is often a worn-out or broken spring. Replacing or upgrading the spring system isn’t just a minor tweak—it’s a crucial repair that affects the safety, performance, and longevity of your door. If you're looking for the best garage door spring repair in Garden City, MI, you need to understand the key differences between torsion and extension springs so you can make the right decision for your home.
In this guide, you’ll learn how both spring types function, the pros and cons of each, when a replacement is necessary, and why having a trusted repair specialist matters. For homeowners in Garden City, expert support is available from Brothers Garage Door Service of Garden City, your reliable partner for quality and safety.
Understanding Garage Door Springs: The Basics
Garage door springs serve one essential function: counterbalancing the weight of the door so it can open and close smoothly. Without them, your opener would be working against gravity alone.
There are two main types of garage door springs:
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Torsion Springs: Mounted above the garage door opening and wound tightly to store mechanical energy.
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Extension Springs: Located on either side of the door, stretching and contracting to generate force.
Choosing the right type depends on several factors: the weight of your garage door, ceiling clearance, frequency of use, budget, and long-term maintenance goals.
Torsion Springs: Strength and Durability
How Torsion Springs Work
Torsion springs use torque (rotational force) to lift the garage door. When the door closes, the springs wind up, storing energy. When it opens, the stored energy is released in a controlled manner through cables and drums, helping lift the door.
Benefits of Torsion Springs
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Longevity: Typically last 15,000 to 20,000 cycles (a cycle = one open and close), making them ideal for homeowners who use the garage door frequently.
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Smoother Operation: Provides balanced, quieter, and more controlled movement.
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Enhanced Safety: Less likely to snap or fly off dangerously when damaged, thanks to the shaft and drum mechanism.
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Better for Heavier Doors: Handles large, insulated, or wooden garage doors with ease.
When to Choose Torsion Springs
Choose torsion springs if:
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You want a longer-lasting spring system.
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You use your garage door multiple times a day.
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You need reliable performance for a heavy or double-door setup.
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You're looking to reduce the noise and vibration during operation.
Extension Springs: Budget-Friendly and Effective
How Extension Springs Work
Extension springs stretch and contract as the door moves. When the door closes, they extend and build tension. When it opens, the tension releases, helping to lift the door.
Benefits of Extension Springs
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Lower Upfront Cost: More affordable to install compared to torsion systems.
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Simple Installation: Can be fitted in garages with limited overhead space.
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Functional for Light to Medium Doors: Perfect for lighter, single garage doors.
Limitations of Extension Springs
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Shorter Lifespan: Generally last 5,000 to 10,000 cycles.
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Increased Wear and Tear: More moving parts, which means more components that can fail.
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Safety Risks: If a spring snaps, it can cause damage unless a containment cable is installed.
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Less Smooth Operation: Can cause jerky movement and more noise.
When to Choose Extension Springs
Choose extension springs if:
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You’re working with a limited budget.
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Your door is lightweight and used occasionally.
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Your ceiling height doesn’t allow for a torsion setup.
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You need a fast fix or temporary solution.
Signs You Need a Spring Repair or Replacement
Recognizing early warning signs can prevent complete failure or serious injury:
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Door doesn’t open fully or closes too quickly.
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Loud bang or snap from inside the garage.
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Door feels heavy or unbalanced.
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Visible gaps in the spring coils.
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Cables appear slack or detached.
Never attempt to repair garage door springs yourself. These components are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury. For those in Garden City, prompt and professional assistance is available from experienced specialists in the area.
Safety First: Why Professional Installation Matters
Whether you’re replacing a broken spring or upgrading to a more efficient system, garage door spring repair is not a DIY job. Here's why expert service matters:
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Proper Diagnosis: Identifying whether you need a single or dual spring system based on door weight and size.
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Correct Tension Calibration: Ensuring the spring provides a balanced lifting force to prevent stress on the opener.
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Code Compliance: Professional installers ensure all parts meet local safety standards.
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Warranty Protection: Professional installation often comes with product and labor warranties.
When your home’s largest moving part is involved, cutting corners isn’t an option. A trusted garage door repair technician can help ensure a long-lasting and safe solution.
Torsion vs. Extension: Side-by-Side Comparison
While both spring systems serve the same basic function, they vary significantly in cost, performance, and safety. Here’s how to decide:
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Go with torsion springs if you want durability, safety, and smoother performance.
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Stick with extension springs if you’re on a budget and have a lightweight door that sees minimal use.
Ultimately, your choice should reflect your household’s needs, usage habits, and long-term goals for garage door performance.
Why Choose Brothers Garage Door Service of Garden City
Choosing the right spring is only part of the equation. You also need a local expert who understands your garage door system inside and out. That’s where Brothers Garage Door Service of Garden City comes in.
With years of hands-on experience, a reputation for transparent pricing, and a focus on safety and precision, their team offers some of the best garage door spring repair in Garden City, MI. Whether you're switching to torsion springs for better performance or need a fast extension spring replacement, their professionals will guide you through the process and get the job done right, the first time.
Final Thoughts
Torsion or extension? The answer depends on your specific door type, usage frequency, and budget. But no matter which you choose, expert installation ensures your garage door operates safely and reliably.
If you're in need of high-quality service, trust the local specialists at Brothers Garage Door Service of Garden City. For the best garage door spring repair in Garden City, MI, they’re the team you can count on for dependable repairs and long-term peace of mind.
Brothers Garage Door Service
29522 Wentworth St, Livonia, MI 48154, United States
+1 734-292-0971
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