At Jim Beam’s Garage Doors, we often encounter questions about the difference between extension and torsion springs in garage doors and why a conversion to torsion springs might be beneficial. Here’s a detailed look at why torsion springs are a superior choice for your garage door system.
Torsion vs. Extension Springs
Firstly, let’s understand the basic mechanics. Torsion springs, unlike extension springs, do not extend fully when the door operates. Instead, they use a turning motion, offering a more controlled and steady movement of the garage door. Extension springs, on the other hand, fully expand and contract, which can lead to a jerky motion.
Longevity and Durability
One of the most significant advantages of torsion springs over extension springs is their durability. Torsion springs are built sturdier and can last between 5,000 to 10,000 cycles, while extension springs generally max out at around 2,500 cycles. For a garage door used four times a day, this difference in cycle life translates to torsion springs lasting significantly longer than extension springs. Although torsion springs last for a long time, you might still have a broken one. Consider reading our article, My Garage Door Spring Snapped. What Should I Do?
Controlled Motion and Balanced Operation
Torsion springs allow for a more controlled motion, ensuring a steady opening and closing of the garage door. This controlled motion is not just about smooth operation; it helps keep the door properly balanced. Extension springs, with their tendency for jerky motion, can lead to frequent need for door adjustments and alignment, causing wear or even damage to other garage door parts.
Simplified Maintenance and Fewer Parts
Torsion springs have a simpler setup with fewer parts compared to extension springs, which require additional components like sheaves and a longer cable. This simplicity means torsion springs are easier to maintain and lubricate, reducing the likelihood of wear and tear on the many parts involved in extension spring systems.
Reduced Wear on Door Operators
Using torsion springs can lead to less wear on your garage door operator. Since torsion springs maintain better balance through controlled motion, the door operator doesn’t have to exert excessive power or endure unnecessary wear. This results in fewer operational problems and prolongs the lifespan of your door operator.
Safety Considerations
While torsion springs may cost more initially, their benefits in terms of safety, durability, balanced operation, and overall reduced maintenance and repair costs make them a worthy investment for your garage door system. At Jim Beam’s Garage Doors, we’re committed to ensuring the safety and longevity of your garage door and are here to assist with any conversions or repairs you might need. Garage door spring repairs are dangerous due to their high tension as discussed in our article One Clear Choice: Why Call a Professional for Garage Door Spring Repairs. So don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of professionals for guidance and services in upgrading your garage door system. Make sure to also read our article, Preventing Garage Door Spring Failures: Maintenance Tips to Extend Lifespan.
| Advantages of Torsion Springs | Limitations of Extension Springs |
|---|---|
| Durability: Torsion springs last between 15,000 to 20,000 cycles, significantly outperforming extension springs. | Shorter Lifespan: Extension springs typically last up to 10,000 cycles, requiring more frequent replacements. |
| Controlled Motion: They ensure steady and balanced operation of the garage door, reducing the need for frequent adjustments. | Jerky Motion: Can lead to unbalanced doors, requiring constant realignment and causing wear to other door components. |
| Simpler Maintenance: Fewer parts involved in the system, making them easier to maintain and lubricate. | Complexity: More parts like sheaves and longer cables, leading to increased wear and tear. |
| Less Wear on Operators: Balanced operation means the garage door opener endures less strain and lasts longer. | Increased Wear on Operators: Uncontrolled motion can strain the door opener, leading to more frequent repairs. |
| Safety: In case of a breakage, torsion springs are less likely to cause damage as they stay in place. | Safety Risk: Broken extension springs can fly off, posing serious risks of injury and property damage. |
A Worthy Investment
While torsion springs may cost more initially, their benefits in terms of safety, durability, balanced operation, and overall reduced maintenance and repair costs make them a worthy investment for your garage door system. At Jim Beam’s Garage Doors, we’re committed to ensuring the safety and longevity of your garage door and are here to assist with any conversions or repairs you might need. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of professionals for guidance and services in upgrading your garage door system.
If you don’t know already, Jim Beam’s Garage Doors is one of the top-rated garage door installers and repairers in the Northern Colorado area. With 150+ reviews on Google and a 5-star rating and top-rated status on HomeAdvisor, you can trust Jim Beam’s to do the job right the first time.
