2026-07-12 7 min read
Garage door springs come in two main types: torsion and extension. Torsion springs sit above your door and twist to lift it; extension springs run along the sides and stretch. Most residential doors in Cohasset use torsion springs because they're smoother and safer. A snapped spring means your door won't open, and that's not a DIY fix. Springs last 7 to 9 years with normal use, then they fail.
Torsion springs are the workhorses of most garage doors. These heavy-duty coils wind up under tension and unwind slowly as your door rises. A standard residential door typically uses one or two torsion springs, depending on weight and size. Extension springs, by contrast, hang on either side of the opening and stretch as your door goes up. They're cheaper upfront but wear faster and create more noise.
The choice between them affects reliability and longevity. If you're upgrading an older system or dealing with a snapped spring, this matters. Torsion springs require professional installation because improper winding can cause serious injury. Extension springs are slightly easier to replace but still demand proper tools and expertise. At Cohasset Garage Doors, we always recommend torsion for long-term performance and safety, even if the initial cost runs slightly higher.
A snapped spring is unmistakable: your door becomes suddenly heavy, won't open, or opens only partway. But springs show warning signs before they fail. Listen for creaking or grinding sounds. Watch for the door rising unevenly or sagging on one side. If your door feels heavier than usual when opening manually, a spring is weakening.
Many homeowners in Cohasset and surrounding South Shore areas wait too long. A worn spring makes your garage door opener work harder, which can damage the motor. Regular inspection, part of basic garage door maintenance, catches these issues early. We recommend a technician check spring condition during your annual service. Learn more about keeping your entire system healthy with our complete guide to garage door lubrication and maintenance.
The cost to replace garage door springs varies based on spring type, door size, and whether one or both springs have failed. Torsion springs typically run $200 to $400 per spring, plus labor. Extension springs cost $100 to $200 each. If both springs fail simultaneously, expect $400 to $800 total, including professional installation.
**Need garage door springs in Cohasset today?** Call (781) 390-4744. we cover same-day service across the area.
Labor adds $150 to $300 depending on complexity and accessibility. We always provide a free estimate before starting work. Many homeowners ask about cost because they've seen DIY videos online, but a professional installation protects your safety and your warranty. A snapped spring under tension can cause serious injury; the repair isn't worth the risk. For detailed pricing insight, check our breakdown of garage door repair costs and estimates.
Installing garage door springs without proper tools and training is genuinely dangerous. Springs hold hundreds of pounds of tension. If a torsion spring unwinds unexpectedly, it can break bones or cause worse damage. Professional technicians use specialized winding bars, safety cables, and experience to do the job correctly.
When you call for same-day service, we arrive with the right equipment and backup springs on the truck. That means no waiting for parts or returning the next day. We test the door after installation to ensure smooth operation and proper balance. Our work comes backed by warranty, so you have peace of mind. Ready to schedule your spring replacement? Get a same-day estimate from our team.
Springs fail eventually. That's not a flaw; it's physics. But you can extend their life through proper maintenance. Regular lubrication reduces friction and wear. Keeping the door aligned prevents uneven stress on springs. Avoiding sudden temperature swings in your garage helps too (though that's harder here on the Massachusetts coast).
If one spring fails, consider replacing both at the same time. Springs are designed and manufactured in pairs to balance your door. Replacing only one often leads to uneven wear and a second failure within months. It's more economical to do both springs in a single service call. For more on preventive care, see our guide to garage door maintenance essentials.
Your garage door springs deserve professional attention. They're critical to safety and daily convenience. Whether you're dealing with a snapped spring right now or planning ahead, Cohasset Garage Doors handles the repair correctly. Don't risk injury or damage by attempting this yourself.
Call us at (781) 390-4744 or schedule your free estimate online. We'll inspect your springs, explain your options, and get your door working smoothly again.
How long do garage door springs last? Most residential springs last 7 to 9 years with normal use (roughly 10,000 open-close cycles). Lifespan varies based on usage frequency, climate, and maintenance. Springs in garages that open 10+ times daily wear faster than those in single-car garages.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself? No. Torsion springs operate under extreme tension and require specialized winding tools. Improper installation causes serious injury or property damage. Professional installation is safer, faster, and typically comes with a warranty protecting your investment.
What's the difference between torsion and extension springs? Torsion springs twist above the door and are safer, quieter, and more durable. Extension springs stretch along the sides, cost less upfront, but wear faster and create more noise. Torsion is the industry standard for most residential doors.
How much does a garage door spring replacement cost? Expect $200 to $400 per torsion spring, plus $150 to $300 in labor. Extension springs run $100 to $200 each. A full replacement of both springs typically totals $400 to $800. We provide free estimates for all jobs.
How do I know if my spring is failing? Listen for creaking or grinding sounds. Watch for uneven door movement or sagging. If the door feels unusually heavy or won't open fully, a spring is weakening. Contact us for a free inspection to confirm the issue.