Cost To Replace Coil Springs On A Garage Door?
Garage doors are more than just a functional part of your home—they play a crucial role in securing your property, enhancing your home’s curb appeal, and adding value. Whether you’re coming and going each day or simply parking your car in the garage, you rely on your garage door more than you realize. But like any complex mechanical system, it requires maintenance to keep running smoothly.
One of the most critical components in a garage door system is the coil springs. These springs provide the necessary tension to lift and lower your heavy garage door with ease.
Over time, however, these springs can wear out, causing your garage door to malfunction or even become unsafe.
But how do you know when it’s time to replace them?
Before we discuss signs of identifying when it’s time to replace your garage door coil springs, it’s important to understand exactly what these springs are and why they matter so much to the functioning of your garage door.
What Are Coil Springs on a Garage Door?
Garage door coil springs are high-tension springs that counterbalance the weight of the door, making it easy to open and close.
Without these springs, the heavy garage door would be nearly impossible to operate manually, and the automatic opener would face unnecessary strain.
There are two main types of garage door coil springs:
- Torsion Springs
These springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door and twist to store mechanical energy. They are more durable and ideal for heavier doors. They last longer but tend to be more expensive to replace.
- Extension Springs
Typically installed on either side of the door, extension springs stretch and contract as the door opens or closes.
While these are less expensive, they tend to wear out faster and require safety cables to prevent accidents if they break.
Related read, How Do I Know Which Garage Door Spring To Buy In Ontario?
How Do Coil Springs Work?
Coil springs work by counterbalancing the weight of your garage door.
When the door is opened or closed, the springs either stretch (for extension springs) or twist (for torsion springs), storing and releasing energy. This energy helps lift and lower the door, so it feels lighter and easier to manage.
- Lifting Power
The springs make it possible for your garage door opener to function properly, providing enough force to lift a door that could weigh several hundred pounds.
- Smooth Operation
By providing this balance, springs ensure that your door moves smoothly without jerking or bouncing, making the experience safer and more reliable.
Why Are Garage Door Springs So Important?
A functional spring is key to your garage door’s operation. Without properly working springs, the door can malfunction, leading to a variety of issues:
- Safety Hazards
A broken spring can cause the door to slam shut unexpectedly or fail to open, posing a danger to anyone in the way. It could also lead to damage to your car or other property in the garage.
- Extra Wear on Other Parts
When springs wear out or break, other parts of the garage door system—like cables and openers—are forced to work harder. This can accelerate the wear on those parts, leading to more costly repairs.
- Increased Repair Costs
If a broken spring goes unnoticed, it may cause further damage to the garage door system. This will only increase the overall repair costs down the line.
How Much Does It Typically Cost to Replace Garage Door Springs?
Replacing garage door springs, particularly in Ontario, is a common repair that ensures your garage door functions safely and smoothly.
While the cost varies, understanding what goes into this repair can help you budget wisely and avoid unnecessary stress.
Breakdown of Costs
In Ontario, the cost of replacing garage door springs typically falls between $200 and $620, including labor and parts. Most homeowners spend about $250 for a single torsion spring replacement by a professional.
However, the exact cost depends on the type of spring, the complexity of the repair, and the contractor’s rates.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Torsion Springs
Durable and reliable, these springs are ideal for heavier doors. They cost more upfront, ranging from $200 to $350 per spring, including installation. Their lifespan often justifies the higher price.
- Extension Springs
Less expensive and commonly used for lighter garage doors, these cost between $150 and $250, including labor. While cheaper, they may need replacement more frequently than torsion springs.
- Labor Costs
Hiring a professional technician typically adds $75 to $150 to your total. This includes installation, adjustment, and ensuring your door is balanced for safe operation.
Several factors influence the total expense, including:
- Type of Spring
Torsion springs are pricier but last longer than extension springs, making them a cost-effective option in the long run.
- Door Size and Weight
Heavier garage doors require stronger, more expensive springs. If your door is oversized or custom-built, expect to pay more.
- Additional Repairs
Issues like frayed cables, misaligned tracks, or a faulty opener may need addressing during the spring replacement, adding $50 to $200 to your bill.
- Regional Labor Rates
In Ontario, labor costs can vary based on the contractor’s experience and location. Urban areas tend to have higher rates compared to smaller towns.
Read more about How Long Does It Take To Replace A Garage Door Spring In Ontario?
DIY Garage Door Spring Replacement vs. Hiring a Professional
Replacing garage door springs yourself may seem like a cost-saving option, but it’s a dangerous task due to the high tension in the springs.
Mishandling them can lead to serious injuries or further damage to your garage door system.
Professional replacement ensures:
- Safe handling of high-tension springs.
- Proper installation and balancing of the door.
- A warranty on parts and labor for peace of mind.
What Are the Signs That My Garage Door Springs Need Replacing?
Your garage door springs work tirelessly, bearing the heavy weight of the door and ensuring smooth operation every time you open or close it.
Over time, wear and tear are inevitable, and recognizing the warning signs of failing springs can save you from inconvenience or potential safety hazards.
Here are seven (7) most common signs that your garage door coil springs may need replacement.
1. Difficulty Lifting the Door
One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of worn-out springs is difficulty lifting the garage door. Springs are designed to counterbalance the door’s weight, making it easy to open manually or with an opener.
If the door feels unusually heavy or refuses to stay open, the springs may no longer be functioning properly.
2. Loud Noises During Operation
Do you hear a loud snapping or banging noise when operating your garage door? This could indicate a broken spring.
The noise occurs because the high tension in the spring releases suddenly when it breaks. Pay close attention, as ignoring this can lead to more significant issues with your door system.
3. Visible Gaps in the Springs
Take a closer look at your torsion or extension springs.
A visible gap or uneven coils can indicate that the spring is broken or has lost tension. Springs should appear tightly wound, without any gaps or signs of elongation.
4. Slow or Jerky Door Movement
A garage door that moves slower than usual, gets stuck, or operates in a jerky manner could point to weakened springs.
Faulty springs make it difficult for the door to move evenly, causing noticeable disruptions in operation.
5. The Garage Door Closes Too Quickly
If your garage door slams shut when closing, the springs may no longer be providing adequate support. This isn’t just inconvenient—it can also be dangerous for anyone or anything beneath the door.
6. The Opener Struggles or Stops Working
Garage door openers are not designed to bear the full weight of the door. If the springs fail, the opener may strain excessively and eventually stop working. This is a clear sign that the springs need immediate attention.
7. Noticeable Wear and Rust
Rust or corrosion on the springs weakens their integrity and shortens their lifespan. If your springs appear rusty, worn out, or stretched beyond their normal length, they may be on the verge of breaking.
Can I Replace Garage Door Springs Myself?
Replacing garage door springs yourself is strongly discouraged due to the inherent risks involved.
Garage door springs are under extreme tension, and mishandling them can result in severe injuries or damage to your property.
Professional vs. DIY:
- Safety Concerns: The high tension in the springs can cause them to snap unexpectedly.
- Complexity: Properly balancing the door and aligning the system is challenging without professional knowledge.
- Warranty Issues: DIY repairs may void any warranties on your garage door or opener.
Instead, hiring a professional ensures a safe and efficient replacement, saving you from potential accidents or costly mistakes.
How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last?
The lifespan of garage door springs is typically measured in cycles—one cycle being one full opening and closing of the door.
On average:
- Torsion Springs: Last about 10,000 cycles, which translates to 7-10 years of regular use.
- Extension Springs: Have a slightly shorter lifespan, usually around 7,000-10,000 cycles.
Factors affecting longevity include:
- Frequency of Use: More frequent use reduces lifespan.
- Maintenance: Regular lubrication and inspections can extend spring life.
- Climate: Extreme temperatures and humidity can lead to rust and wear.
If you notice signs of wear, such as gaps in the spring or difficulty operating the door, it may be time to replace them.
Does Replacing Both Springs Cost More?
Replacing both garage door springs may initially seem more expensive but is more cost-effective and practical in the long run. Garage doors typically have two springs (torsion or extension), and they are designed to work together.
Why Replace Both?
- Even Wear: Springs wear out at a similar rate. Replacing one often means the other will fail soon after.
- Cost Efficiency: Replacing both during one service visit saves on future labor costs.
- System Balance: A single new spring may cause imbalance, leading to strain on other components.
The additional cost for replacing both springs is minimal compared to the potential expenses of uneven wear and repeated service calls.
What is the Cost of Converting Extension Springs to Torsion Springs?
Converting extension springs to torsion springs is a popular upgrade due to the increased durability and safety torsion springs provide.
On average, the cost of conversion ranges from $400 to $800, depending on your garage door’s size and weight.
Why Convert?
- Improved Longevity: Torsion springs last longer, averaging 10,000 cycles or more.
- Enhanced Safety: They are less likely to snap violently, reducing injury risks.
- Better Performance: Torsion springs provide smoother and quieter door operation.
The cost includes new springs, additional hardware (such as a spring bar), and labor. While upfront costs are higher, the long-term benefits make it a worthwhile investment.
If you’re dealing with a broken spring or need a professional assessment, contact us today for a free consultation.
We offer affordable home management plans that include garage door maintenance and repair services to keep your system in top shape.
Don’t wait—ensure your garage door operates safely and efficiently!