Springs
Garage Door Springs - FAQs & Troubleshooting
If your garage door feels unusually heavy, or you’re unsure which spring type you have, this page walks through the most common questions in plain language.
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:
- 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.
You can order TorqueMaster springs in three ways:
- By wire size and length
- By door weight
- By part number from the tube label
Use the TorqueMaster Spring Selector Tool
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.