How do you calculate the life cycle of a torsion spring?

Author: Cicero Murphy  |  Last update: Monday, July 21, 2025

The required number of cycles is calculated by determining the average number of operating cycles per day, multiplying this figure by 250 days, and then multiplying the result by 10 years (the useful life of a garage door). The choice of the torsion spring is made according to the number of cycles thus obtained.

What is the life of a torsion spring?

Torsion springs usually have 5,000-20,000 cycles which means they can last between 7 to 12 years (and even more). Extension Springs' Life Expectancy: Extension springs are installed at the side of the door and act extend, rather than contract (as does the torsion spring).

What is the formula for a torsion spring?

Divide the torque by the angular deflection. The result is the spring rate k : k = M/θ . If you are computing the spring rate in N·m/rad and want to know its value in N·m/turn , simply multiply the k by 2π .

How long do torsion springs last?

The industry standard for a pair of torsion springs is usually 10,000 cycles, or about 6 to 10 years, depending on level of use. If they're broken, it's easy to tell simply because broken garage door springs will usually just snap in half or stop working altogether.

Can a garage door spring last 20,000 cycles?

The two garage door spring types have different life expectancies. Torsion springs generally last longer than extension springs because they are not under constant pressure. Quality torsion springs can sometimes last anywhere from 15,000 to 20,000 cycles.

How to Measure a Broken Garage Door Torsion Spring [Updated]

What is the longest lasting garage door spring?

Standard manufacturer springs typically last around 18 months. Oil-tempered springs have a longer lifespan of about 3 years. A1 Garage Door Service MaxLife springs offer the longest durability, lasting over 22 years.

When should I replace my garage door torsion spring?

5 Signs It's Time to Replace Torsion Springs
  1. You Hear the Garage Door Opener Strain. ...
  2. The Door Slams Shut Without Warning. ...
  3. You Hear a Loud Popping Sound When the Door Is Closed. ...
  4. The Door Feels Heavier. ...
  5. You Can't Rest the Door in the Mid-Level Position.

Should you lubricate your garage door spring?

The best way to keep your garage door springs lasting throughout the years is to lubricate them 1-2 times annually with either white lithium or silicone-based spray. These can easily be found at a local hardware store.

What is the average cost of garage door spring replacement?

Expect to spend $120–$350 to replace your garage door spring, including material costs and professional installation. While these heavy-duty springs are built to last, they'll eventually need replacement due to wear and tear. Garage door spring replacement isn't your average DIY project, either.

What is the torsional spring law?

If an unknown force is applied at right angles to the ends of the bar, the bar will rotate, twisting the fiber, until it reaches an equilibrium where the twisting force or torque of the fiber balances the applied force. Then the magnitude of the force is proportional to the angle of the bar.

What is the formula for calculating torsion?

The formula for torsional stress in a circular shaft is given by: τ = T*r/J where τ is the torsional stress, T is the torque, r is the radius of the shaft, and J is the polar moment of inertia of the cross-section. The polar moment of inertia is a measure of the resistance of the cross-section to torsion.

Do torsion springs work in both directions?

Torsion springs resist twisting or rotationally applied force. Depending on the application, a torsion spring can be designed to work in a clockwise or counterclockwise rotation, which will determine the direction of the wind.

How many cycles do springs last?

The most common reason your garage door springs break is wear and tear. When properly installed, your springs can last approximately 10,000 cycles. One cycle includes both the opening and closing of the door. Technically speaking, your springs should last between 7 to 10 years.

Should you replace both torsion springs at the same time?

Replacing your garage door springs when only one has broken is not a good idea. It can cause extra strain on an otherwise undamaged spring, leading it to snap sooner than expected. Make sure you always replace both springs when they snap, regardless of which side snapped first.

What causes a torsion spring to snake?

A torsion spring with too much stretch can cause waves or snaking in the spring(s) that can cause the coils to rub or scrape and lead to premature spring failure. Waves or snaking of the spring(s) can be caused due to poor install or from the spring bar shifting from side to side during operation.

Is it OK to use WD-40 on garage door springs?

The hinges, rollers, and springs of your garage door see a lot of action. They need a lubricant that can stand up to heavy use and provide long-lasting protection. WD-40 doesn't cut it. It attracts dirt and dust, which can cause the tracks to get tacky and put extra strain on the opener.

How can I make my garage door spring last longer?

How Can You Make Springs Last Longer?
  1. Keep rust and corrosion at bay. Regular lubrication plays a big role in preventing rust and corrosion, but it has to be done with the right lubricant. ...
  2. Keep your garage door properly balanced. ...
  3. Keep road salt out of your garage. ...
  4. Keep up with regularly scheduled maintenance.

What do the colors mean on torsion springs?

Torsion springs will generally have two different colors. First, each spring will be marked with red or black. Red springs are 'right-wound springs' while black springs are 'left-wound springs'. The other color on the torsion spring is the DASMA color. The color signifies the wire size or wire gauge.

How long do garage door rollers last?

You may wonder how long your rollers will last. This will depend on the type of garage door rollers you currently have. With proper maintenance, rollers can last between 10 and 20 years. Other factors will affect the longevity of your rollers as well, such as weather and frequency of use.

How many times do I wind my torsion spring?

If your door is 7ft high then we recommend starting off at 31 Quarter turns on each springs. If you have an 8ft door then start at 34 Quarter turns. When you put your winding bars in your springs and push up this is a quarter turn, simply do this the recommended amount of times on each spring.

How much does it typically cost to replace a garage door spring?

Garage door spring replacement costs $250 on average, with prices often ranging from $150 to $350 or more. A reliable garage door protects your home from security threats and the elements while also making daily life more convenient.

Can I open my garage door if the torsion spring is broken?

Garage door springs hold a lot of tension and are therefore potentially very dangerous. They can even cause death or injury. For that reason, we do not recommend that you try to open your garage door if it has a broken spring.

What is the life expectancy of a garage door?

Though many factors contribute to a garage door's lifespan, a typical garage door will last around 15 and 30 years. Your garage door's lifetime will vary depending on the type and brand you choose. Factors like the weather, environment, usage and maintenance schedule also impact the longevity of your garage door.

Previous article
How many minutes of fresh air does a house need?
Next article
What is the alternative to glass blocks?