2026-09-14 7 min read
After 15 years on service calls, I've found most homeowners can't tell the difference between a torsion spring and an extension spring, and honestly, that confusion costs people money. Here's the straight answer: torsion springs sit above your garage door and twist to lift the weight; extension springs run along the sides and stretch to pull the door up. Knowing which you have matters because they fail differently, cost different amounts to replace, and require different safety approaches. This post cuts through the confusion so you can make an informed decision when spring trouble hits your Cohasset garage.
Let me start with what you'll actually see in your garage.
Torsion springs are mounted on a horizontal bar above the door opening. They look like thick coils wrapped around a rod. When you open the door, these springs twist (torque) to counterbalance the weight. Most modern homes built in the last 20 years use torsion springs. They're centered, compact, and safer because the springs stay contained on that bar.
Extension springs run along both sides of the door, parallel to the tracks. They look like long metal coils stretched out. When the door rises, these springs extend and pull. Older Cohasset homes often have extension springs. They take up more horizontal space but work just fine if maintained.
Why does this matter? When a torsion spring snaps, the entire door weight transfers instantly to your opener (and potentially drops). When an extension spring breaks, you might lose that side's lift, and the door can jam or bind. Both scenarios are dangerous and need professional attention.
Back when I started in the trade, extension springs were standard. Today, most new installations use torsion because they last longer, perform more smoothly, and spread stress more evenly across the door's width.
A torsion spring typically lasts 7 to 9 years with average use (opening and closing roughly 3 to 5 times per day). Extension springs often need replacement sooner, sometimes around 5 to 7 years, because each side bears half the load and wears unevenly.
Garage door springs in Cohasset sit in tough conditions. Coastal air, salt spray, temperature swings from ocean breezes, and humidity all accelerate corrosion. That's why regular lubrication and inspection matter more here than in inland regions. If you haven't checked your springs lately, now is a good time.
**Need garage door springs in Cohasset today?** Call (781) 390-4744. we cover same-day service across the area.
Walk into your garage and look up at the area directly above the door.
Do you see a thick metal rod with coils wrapped around it running left to right? That's torsion. Do you see springs running vertically along the left and right tracks? That's extension. It takes 30 seconds. Write it down.
Why? When you call for a repair or estimate, knowing your spring type speeds the process. The technician won't waste time diagnosing what you already know. Plus, understanding your spring configuration helps you spot wear early. If you've got extension springs and notice one side sagging, that's a red flag.
Here's where type makes a real difference in your wallet.
A snapped spring replacement in Cohasset runs between $250 and $400 for most residential jobs, but the exact cost depends on your spring type. Torsion springs often cost a bit more because they require precision winding and special tools. Extension springs are usually cheaper but you often need both sides replaced simultaneously for safety and balance. For a full breakdown, check our spring replacement cost guide.
Labor time varies too. Torsion replacement takes about an hour for an experienced technician. Extension replacement can take 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on track condition and rust.
Don't cheap out on this. A snapped spring isn't something to ignore. That door becomes a pinch hazard and your opener works twice as hard, wearing faster. Get a free estimate before the problem worsens.
Never, ever try to replace a garage door spring yourself. I mean that. Springs hold hundreds of pounds of tension. A slip costs fingers, hands, or worse. Commercial garage door applications involve even higher tensions and heavier doors requiring certified installation.
If your door feels heavy, makes noise, or moves unevenly, a spring is likely the culprit. Schedule a free quote at Cohasset Garage Doors by calling (781) 390-4744 or visiting our contact page to get a same-day estimate. We'll identify whether you need torsion or extension replacement and handle it safely.
The regional weather around Cohasset and nearby Manchester means your springs work harder than average. Salt air accelerates corrosion. Regular maintenance stretches spring life by months or even a year.
Don't wait until you're stuck with a broken door. A small inspection today prevents a big emergency tomorrow. Schedule a free quote with our team now.
Can I replace just one spring if I have two? No. If one breaks, the other is usually close behind. Replacing both at the same time ensures balanced lift and prevents immediate failure on the surviving spring. It's safer and more economical than a second service call in weeks.
How often should I lubricate my springs? Once or twice yearly. Use a garage door lubricant spray (not WD-40) on the coils and rod. This reduces rust and friction, extending spring life by 1 to 2 years, especially important in coastal Cohasset humidity.
What's the difference in noise between torsion and extension springs? Torsion springs make a winding sound when opening. Extension springs are quieter overall but rattle if not properly aligned. Both should operate smoothly without squeaking or grinding.
How much warning do you get before a spring snaps? Sometimes none. Springs fail without warning. Other times you'll notice the door feeling heavier or uneven for days. Regular maintenance catches wear early, so you schedule replacement on your terms, not an emergency.
Are torsion springs worth the extra cost? Yes. They last longer, operate more smoothly, and are safer. The extra $50 to $100 upfront saves you money over the door's lifetime and reduces emergency breakdowns.