Garage Door Springs in Somerville: Torsion vs. Extension (Which Do You Have?)
2026-07-06 7 min read
Your garage door springs are the hardest working part of your entire system, yet most homeowners have no idea which type they own or how they function. Understanding whether you have torsion or extension springs matters because it affects repair costs, safety risks, and how quickly you can get service. Let's cut through the confusion and help you identify what's above your garage door right now.
Torsion Springs: The Heavy Lifters
Torsion springs sit on a horizontal rod directly above your garage door opening. They twist (or torque) as your door opens and closes, storing and releasing energy with each cycle. Most modern homes in Somerville and surrounding areas use torsion springs because they're more durable and balanced.
A standard torsion spring lasts 7 to 9 years with normal use. When one snaps, you'll hear a loud bang that sounds like a gunshot. Your door won't open without power, and the springs do roughly 90 percent of the heavy lifting. This is why a snapped spring demands immediate attention.
Torsion springs come in different gauges and wire diameters. Heavier doors need thicker wires. Lighter doors use thinner gauge springs. Getting the wrong size installed is one of the fastest ways to overspend on repairs or burn through springs prematurely.
Why Torsion Springs Cost More (But Save You Money Long Term)
Torsion springs typically cost more upfront than extension springs, but they last longer and are safer. Because they're under constant tension, they require professional installation and removal. DIY attempts here are genuinely dangerous. A torsion spring under full torque can cause serious injury.
When you need torsion spring replacement in Somerville, expect same-day availability from experienced technicians. The job takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on your door's weight and spring configuration.
Extension Springs: Budget Friendly But Shorter Lived
Extension springs run along both sides of your garage door opening, parallel to the horizontal tracks. They stretch and contract as your door moves up and down, like a rubber band doing repetitive exercise.
Older homes and lighter doors often use extension springs. They're cheaper to buy and install, which appeals to budget conscious homeowners. However, they typically last only 4 to 7 years, requiring replacement more frequently than torsion springs.
Extension springs are slightly safer to replace yourself, but we still recommend hiring a pro. Safety cables run through these springs to catch them if they snap, preventing the spring from flying across your garage. A broken safety cable leaves you vulnerable to injury.
**Need garage door springs in Somerville today?** Call 857-367-2748. we cover same-day service across the area.
How to Identify Your Spring Type (Right Now)
Walk into your garage and look directly above the door opening. Do you see one or two springs running horizontally along a rod? That's torsion. Do you see springs running vertically along the tracks on both sides? That's extension.
Still unsure? Take a photo and call us at 857-367-2748. We'll tell you exactly what you have and what replacement costs.
Common Spring Problems and Real Costs
A snapped torsion spring costs between $200 and $400 for parts and labor in the Somerville area, depending on spring size and door weight. Extension spring replacement typically runs $150 to $300. Don't let a contractor quote you $600 for a single spring replacement without asking why. Get an estimate from Garage Door Company Somerville before committing.
If you notice your door pulling to one side, rising unevenly, or requiring extra force to open, one spring is likely failing while the other still works. Many homeowners wait until both snap. Replace them together. It's more cost effective than two separate service calls six months apart.
For a deeper breakdown of what affects pricing, read our complete guide to garage door spring cost in Somerville.
When to Call a Professional
You should never attempt torsion spring removal yourself. Period. Extension springs are less dangerous, but the risk of pinched fingers or eye injuries still exists. Both spring types store enormous energy. A miscalculation or slip means real injury.
Learn the warning signs before failure happens. Check out our guide on how to tell if your garage door spring is failing in Somerville so you can catch problems early and avoid emergency repair costs.
Professional installation also includes proper balancing of your door. An unbalanced door puts extra stress on your opener and remaining springs, creating a domino effect of repairs. Explore our spring replacement services to see what's included in a proper job.
If your door is currently stuck or you hear a bang from above, schedule a free quote today and describe what happened. We'll assess the damage and provide an honest estimate.
Prevention Beats Emergency Repairs
Maintenance catches weak springs before they snap. Annual inspections identify wear patterns. Lubricating your springs and hinges extends their lifespan. A $100 maintenance call now prevents a $300 emergency repair later.
Spring failure isn't always predictable, but it's always fixable. Contact us today at 857-367-2748 to schedule your spring inspection or replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my garage door spring is broken? Your door won't open with the remote or wall button. You'll hear a loud bang or snap sound. The door may be stuck in the open or closed position. Do not force it open; call a technician immediately.
Can I replace just one spring if both are the same age? Technically yes, but we recommend replacing both. Springs of similar age typically fail around the same time. Replacing one now and one later means two service calls and double labor costs.
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion springs last 7 to 9 years. Extension springs last 4 to 7 years. Lifespan depends on door weight, usage frequency, and maintenance. Lighter doors with less frequent use may last longer.
What's the difference between spring repair and replacement? Springs cannot be repaired once snapped. "Repair" means replacing the broken spring. We assess both springs and recommend full replacement if either shows wear.
Why is professional installation necessary for springs? Springs operate under 200+ pounds of tension. Improper installation risks serious injury, door misalignment, and premature failure. Professional installation includes safety cable inspection and door balancing.