2026-07-26 7 min read
After 15 years working garage doors across Artesia and surrounding neighborhoods, I've learned that most homeowners don't actually know which type of spring they have. That gap in knowledge costs people money and sometimes safety headaches. Here's the straight answer: your garage uses either a torsion spring (wound around a rod above the door) or extension springs (running along the sides). Knowing which one you have determines repair cost, replacement urgency, and whether a DIY fix is even possible.
Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above your garage door opening, twisted around a steel shaft. When the door opens, they unwind and release stored energy to help lift the weight. When it closes, they wind up again.
This design is the industry standard for good reason. Torsion springs are safer, last longer, and handle weight more smoothly than extension types. They're also more expensive to replace, which is why some older homes in Artesia still run the older extension setup.
A typical torsion spring lasts 7 to 9 years with normal use. Once one fails, replacement is not a "do it yourself" job. The tension stored in that spring is dangerous. I've seen too many DIYers get hurt trying to replace one without proper tools and training.
Extension springs sit on either side of the door, parallel to the horizontal tracks. They stretch and contract as the door moves up and down.
Extension springs are cheaper upfront but tend to wear out faster than torsion systems. They also wear unevenly if one spring fails before the other, which puts stress on the garage door opener and tracks. The good news is they're usually a bit simpler to access during inspection.
If your door suddenly feels heavier or jerks to one side, a failing extension spring is often the culprit.
Look inside your garage with the door closed. Stand back safely and look up at the space directly above the door frame. If you see a horizontal metal rod with coils wrapped around it, you have torsion. If you see springs running along the left and right sides of the door near the tracks, those are extension springs.
Not sure? That's exactly why we offer free estimates. Schedule a free quote and we'll identify your system, assess wear, and give you an honest timeline for replacement.
**Need garage door springs in Artesia today?** Call (562) 502-1541. we cover same-day service across the area.
Torsion spring replacement typically runs $200 to $400 per spring, depending on door size and spring quality. Extension springs cost less per unit, around $150 to $250 each, but you usually need both sides done at once to avoid imbalance. If you have a snapped spring, don't wait. A broken spring makes your door unsafe and puts extra stress on the opener motor.
Labor also differs. Torsion work takes longer because of the tension and precision involved. Extension replacement is usually faster, which shows up in your final estimate.
Regular lubrication extends spring life significantly. Once a year, apply a garage-door-specific lubricant to the springs and tracks. This keeps corrosion at bay and reduces wear from friction.
Artesia's climate near the coast means salt air exposure. That accelerates rust on metal springs. If your garage sits close to the ocean, plan for earlier replacement than the typical 7 to 9 year window. Our maintenance guide covers seasonal care that actually works.
A snapped or severely rusted spring needs immediate attention. Driving under a door with a failed spring risks injury and damage. Don't attempt repairs yourself. Contact a licensed technician who carries the right tools, knows how to manage tension safely, and can replace both springs to restore balance.
Garage Door Artesia handles spring replacement same-day in most cases. We stock both torsion and extension springs and can typically have your door working safely again within hours of your call.
Understanding your spring type helps you make better decisions about repair versus replacement. Whether you're facing a single failed spring or planning ahead after learning about how long garage door springs actually last, knowing what you have puts you in control.
Don't ignore spring problems. A failed spring doesn't just inconvenience you. It stresses the opener, can damage tracks, and creates a safety hazard for anyone under the door. Visit our spring services page to learn more about what's involved, or call us at (562) 502-1541 for a no-obligation estimate. We're ready to help.
How do I know if my garage door spring is about to fail? Listen for creaking or squeaking sounds. Watch for the door feeling heavier, rising unevenly, or sagging on one side. These are early warning signs. If the door won't open at all with the opener, a spring may have snapped.
Can I replace just one spring if the other is still working? We recommend replacing both springs at the same time, even if only one has failed. Springs wear together, and replacing one leaves the other to fail soon after, creating imbalance and extra opener strain.
What's the difference in cost between torsion and extension spring replacement? Torsion springs typically cost more to replace due to labor complexity and safety requirements. Extension springs are cheaper per unit but you usually replace both sides simultaneously for safety.
How often should I have my springs inspected? Once yearly is ideal, especially if your door is over five years old. Artesia's coastal climate speeds corrosion, so spring checks are part of smart maintenance planning.
Is it safe to manually open my garage door if the spring breaks? No. A snapped spring removes the counterbalance system. The door becomes extremely heavy and dangerous to operate manually or with an opener. Stay out and call a professional.