Garage Door Springs - FAQs & Troubleshooting

Garage door springs counterbalance the door so it lifts smoothly. Use these FAQs to diagnose a heavy door, understand spring types, and determine door weight before you order. For system-specific help, see the Torsion, TorqueMaster, and Extension spring guides.

Safety note: Springs are under high tension. Disconnect power, follow your kit instructions, and contact us with photos if you are unsure before you begin.

Why is my garage door heavy to lift?

The springs are designed to offset the full weight of the door so it can be raised with minimal effort. If the door suddenly feels heavy, it usually means:

A spring has broken and is no longer providing lift.
Springs are fatigued or incorrectly sized, so they aren't balancing the door properly.
Friction from worn rollers or misaligned tracks is adding resistance.

Tip: Disconnect the opener using the red release cord and lift the door manually. If it won't stay in place at waist height, the spring system needs attention before further use.

What's the difference between torsion, TorqueMaster, and extension springs?

All three systems do the same job - counterbalancing the weight of the door - but they look and function differently:

Select your garage door spring type

Torsion springs mount above the door on a shaft and twist to store energy. They are the most common modern spring type. See torsion springs.
TorqueMaster springs are exclusive to Wayne Dalton doors. They're hidden inside a metal tube with special winding hardware. See TorqueMaster springs.
Extension springs run along the tracks and stretch as the door closes. They are used in pairs and require safety cables. See extension springs.

Always replace springs with the same type your door was designed for. Switching systems without modification can cause serious damage or injury.

How do I determine the weight of my garage door?

The actual door weight tells you which spring rating you need. There are two main methods:

Check the label (TorqueMaster only): Many Wayne Dalton spring tubes include a balance weight or part number.
Weigh the door: With all spring tension safely removed and the opener disconnected, place a scale under the door to record its true weight.