There are two main styles of garage door springs – extension and torsion springs. Each spring style has their own lifespan that can be shortened or extended based on a couple factors. Factors include usage, how the springs are made, how they are installed, and how often you have maintenance performed. Let’s explore each:
Extension Springs
Typically, extension springs should last roughly 10,000 cycles. Typically these springs will last between 2-5 years depending on usage. This also falls in line for the life expectancy of the coiled steel that is used to make these springs.
When extension springs are installed, they must have equal force being exerted on one another as there is a spring on each side of the door. Otherwise one will be under increased stress – thus shortening your spring system’s life expectancy.
Poorly installed extension springs can drive the lifespan down to 1-3 years, which is why it’s important to have a true industry expert do the install, like us here at Today Garage Door Services.
Torsion Springs
While more expensive, torsion springs last much longer – typically between 15,000-20,000 cycles or 5-10 years. We highly recommend going with torsion springs over extension springs due to the increased life expectancy, but they also are much easier to install above the door and ensure equal force is being exerted on each side.
In addition, there are both standard and oil-soaked springs. Oil-soaked springs typically require less frequent maintenance as they tend to stay lubricated longer than the standard springs. Similar to the extension springs, the install can affect the life expectancy.
While torsion springs are installed as one system above the door, ½ the system focuses on the left side and the other ½ focuses on the right. Both must have equal force being exerted on one another otherwise this system will fail much sooner than the 15,000-20,000 cycles.
Maintenance
Ideally, we recommend lubricating extension springs quarterly or semi-annually depending on usage and recommend lubricating torsion springs semi-annually or annually. In addition, we recommend having a professional come out for the maintenance, but if you self perform, make sure you use white lithium grease and avoid any water based products at all costs. Give us a call today to schedule maintenance.
Whether you have extension or torsion springs, the typical lifespan is simply a range and can be impacted due to the factors we listed. Key takeaways would be to ensure you are having regular maintenance performed (depending on the style of your spring system and that your usage will directly impact the system’s lifespan. With installs, ensure you are having a trusted professional perform the work and with maintenance, we recommend the same to ensure you’re adhering to the maintenance schedule + ensure proper lubrication. Give us call today for a spring install, upgrade, or install!