How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last?

Your garage door springs are the unsung heroes of your home. They do the heavy lifting every single day, yet most people never think about them until one snaps. So how long should you expect them to last before needing replacement? The answer depends on the type of spring, how often you use your garage, and even the climate you live in. Let’s break it down.

Torsion Springs

Torsion springs are the most common setup for modern garage doors. They are rated in cycles (one open and close = one cycle), usually around 10,000 cycles. For the average homeowner, this works out to about 7 to 10 years of use. If you are in and out of your garage multiple times a day, that lifespan gets eaten up faster. High cycle torsion springs exist, but remember they are not magic. Usage, proper sizing, and quality matter most.

Extension Springs

These run along the tracks of your garage door and also average 7 to 10 years of life. They can wear unevenly and often show signs like sagging, stretching, or noisy operation before failing. If one breaks, it is best practice to replace both at the same time for balance and safety.

Wayne Dalton TorqueMaster Springs

TorqueMaster springs are enclosed inside a tube system, making them look clean but also trickier to spot when they fail. Their lifespan is the same, about 7 to 10 years. And here is the truth bomb: there is no such thing as “high cycle TorqueMaster springs.” If another site claims otherwise, do not buy it. Wayne Dalton only makes them in standard 10,000 cycle strength, and the cycle rating does not change.

What Affects Spring Life?

• Usage: Multiple daily openings shorten the lifespan.
• Door Weight: The wrong spring size leads to early failure.
• Maintenance: Lubrication and balanced tracks add years.
• Climate: Extreme hot and cold swings are spring killers.
• Quality: Cheap imports may cost less now but fail sooner.

Should You Replace Them Yourself?

If you are handy and careful, some springs can be a DIY project. But beware, broken springs are dangerous. If you are unsure, call a professional. And if you are shopping for quality replacement parts, we have you covered! Get replacement springs here!

Quick Recap

Most garage door springs last 7 to 10 years or 10,000 cycles, but that lifespan can vary depending on how often you use your door, your climate, and the quality of the spring. Torsion, extension, and TorqueMaster springs all share a similar cycle rating. The details are what make the difference.