Is it safe to replace garage door springs?

Author: Jackson Ryan  |  Last update: Saturday, June 21, 2025

Some homeowners may attempt DIY repairs on their garage doors, including repairing or replacing broken springs themselves. However, this is not recommended and can lead to more problems than solutions. Not only is it unsafe, but it can also cause more damage to your garage door system if not done properly.

How hard is it to replace springs on a garage door?

Its a bit tricky the torsion springs are wound under considerable tension. If you slip you can have a serious gash from the tool. I always leave it to a professional since this is a once every 10–20 year repair and can be very dangerous if you don't do it just right.

How much should it cost to replace the spring on a garage door?

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 safest spring for a garage door?

Torsion springs are safer than extension springs and often last twice as long. Coating on a torsion spring makes it last even longer than a regular torsion spring. Torsion springs are also safer compared to extension springs because they're self-contained. When they break, they will not turn into projectiles.

What is the average life of a garage door spring?

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. However, this depends on how often you use your garage door.

How Much Does a Garage Door Torsion Spring Replacement Cost in 2025?

Should I replace a garage door spring myself?

While replacing the spring yourself may save you money, a professional may be able to complete the job faster while avoiding the hazards that come with this chore. If you aren't comfortable doing this task yourself, you may want to hire it out the first time to observe how a professional makes the repair.

How to manually open a garage door with a broken spring?

6 Steps To Opening Garage Door with Broken Spring
  1. Step 1: Disconnect the Garage Door Opener. Locate the emergency release handle on the garage door opener. ...
  2. Step 2: Secure the Door. ...
  3. Step 3: Have Helpers. ...
  4. Step 4: Lift the Door Manually. ...
  5. Step 5: Lift in Sections. ...
  6. Step 6: Secure the Open Door.

Is it common for garage door springs to break?

Out of all parts of your garage door, its springs experience the greatest stress and are the most prone to breaking.

How many springs should a 2 car garage door have?

A lightweight single door can usually be supported by one torsion spring. A heavyweight single door may need two torsion springs and double-wide doors need two torsion springs.

What is an alternative to a garage door torsion spring?

Extension springs use extension to perform their function and are usually found in the horizontal tracks on both sides of a garage door. Extension springs are also a great alternative to torsion springs since they can be easily placed even when there is low headroom for torsion springs.

Should you replace both garage door springs at the same time?

Replacing both springs at the same time offers a significant benefit. It reduces the risk of one spring failing shortly after the replacement, saving you from having to repeat the entire repair process.

How long does it take to replace garage door springs?

Replacing garage door springs takes 30 minutes to 1 hour. New garage door springs last 7 to 14 years, or between 10,000 and 20,000 up-and-down cycles. It is important to hire a professional to help, because changing a garage door spring can be dangerous.

How do I know if my garage door springs need replacing?

Here are five signs that a set of springs is ready to go.
  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.

Can a garage door work without springs?

Technically, a garage door can open and close without springs, but it poses significant challenges and risks. Operating a garage door without springs can lead to: Increased Physical Effort: The absence of springs makes the door extremely heavy, requiring more force to move.

Should you fix a garage door yourself?

For this reason, we strongly recommend that you don't attempt to fix your garage door yourself and use a professional door repair service. We're not making this recommendation because we're a garage door company and we're trying to scare you into calling us.

Do garage door springs weaken over time?

While the most common reason garage doors springs break is general wear and tear, on average, garage door springs typically last between 7 to 9 years or approximately 10,000 cycles (one cycle is a full open and close of the door).

Can I replace a garage door spring myself?

Replacing the garage door torsion springs is a job that can be handled by an experienced DIY enthusiast with the right tools and knowledge. But should clearly understand the risks involved and take precautions to ensure that the job is carried out as safely as possible.

What is the best garage door spring?

Some of the most reviewed products in Garage Door Springs are the DURA-LIFT 0.207 in. Wire x 2 in. D x 25 in. L Torsion Springs in Yellow Left and Right Wound Pair for Sectional Garage Doors with 401 reviews, and the DURA-LIFT 0.207 in.

How much does it cost to replace two springs on a double garage door?

According to Angi, garage door spring replacement can cost between $150 and $350, including materials and labor. If additional repairs are required, you may spend up to $500. A double door generally costs an extra $15 to $30 per spring. Garage doors have two springs—one on each side.

Can a garage door still open with a broken spring?

A garage door can still open if the spring is broken, but it will take some manual effort. Using your garage door opener could burn out the motor since the broken spring makes the garage door heavier. We recommend not attempting to open your garage door if it has a broken spring.

What is the life of a garage door spring?

Standard manufacturer garage door springs have an average lifecycle of about 10,000 cycles, equivalent to approximately 48 months when used daily. Oil-tempered garage door springs show improved endurance, lasting for about 15,000 cycles, which translates roughly to a 10-year lifespan with regular use.

Do garage door springs need maintenance?

Proper maintenance is key to extending the life of your garage door springs. Here's how to maintain them and know when professional help is needed. Apply Lubrication Regularly: Lubricating your garage door springs helps reduce friction and noise.

What breaks garage door springs?

A Broken Garage Door Spring
  • Excessive tension on the spring. ...
  • Worn-out springs. ...
  • Corrosion. ...
  • Sudden impact or force. ...
  • Improper installation may also be a factor when it comes to spring breakage. ...
  • Door Jams – From time to time dirt, grime and debris can accumulate within the track of the door. ...
  • Extreme temperature changes.

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