Springs
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.
Garage door springs usually last 7 to 10 years. Learn the lifespan of torsion, extension and TorqueMaster springs and the factors that affect their life.
How long do torsion springs last?
Torsion springs are typically rated for 10,000 cycles, or about 7 to 10 years depending on daily use.
Should I replace both springs if only one breaks?
Yes. Replacing both ensures even wear and prevents future imbalance or uneven lifting.
Can I get high cycle TorqueMaster springs?
No. The manufacturer does not make high cycle TorqueMaster springs. If you see them advertised elsewhere, it is a red flag.
What factors shorten garage door spring life?
Frequent daily use, improper spring sizing, extreme weather, poor maintenance, and cheap materials all reduce spring lifespan.
Also in Garage Door Parts - DIY Handbook
Torque Master Spring Installation Made Easy: 6 Simple Steps
Installing Torque Master springs might seem intimidating at first, but with the right tools and step-by-step guidance, it's a manageable DIY project.
Why Do Garage Doors Need Torsion Springs? Expert Explains
Think of your garage door springs like the counterweight in an old elevator. Without them, your door would be incredibly difficult to lift manually, and your garage door opener would burn out trying to handle all that weight on its own.
What Size Garage Door Spring for a 16x7 Door?
Here's something that surprises a lot of people: there are usually several different spring combinations that will work for your 16x7 door. You might be able to use a single heavy-duty spring or two lighter springs, depending on your setup and preferences.