Yes, torsion springs come in both left-wind and right-wind versions. Whether you need a left or right-hand spring depends entirely on its design and application, but the coiling direction determines how the spring tightens or loosens under load.
To determine the wind of a torsion spring (whether it is left-wound or right-wound), look directly at the end of the spring.
Yes, torsion springs can work in both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions, but they are designed to primarily work in the direction of their wind.
In most cases, you can determine the wind of your garage door torsion spring by using the color-coded system on the cones at the end of the spring. Usually, you will have two springs on your door, which will be color-coded. In MOST (not all) cases, the end on the right hand wind is red and the left hand wind is black.
torsion springs and spiral springs can be used with bi-directional motions given the same spiral direction.
The optimal spring for your door is going to give you the same lifespan whether you go with the perfectly sized option or if you went three sizes up and underwound it. Both will last roughly the same number of cycles before needing replacement. So really, trying to beef up your spring system isn't the smart play.
To find the correct torsion spring for your garage door, you need four critical measurements from your existing spring: wire diameter, inside diameter, overall length, and the winding direction. You can also determine the correct spring using your total door weight and height.
Torsion springs store and release rotational energy by twisting. They are classified into distinct categories based on their design configurations, wind direction, and end styles.
Torsion spring ends can be hooked, looped, bent, or twisted to meet application needs.
Determining the Direction of Wind
First, position the front coil so that the tip of the wire is at 12 o'clock. Then, check the direction in which the wire turns to make the first coil. If it goes clockwise, it's a right-hand spring, if it coils counter-clockwise, the spring is left-handed.
Yes, garage door torsion springs require lubrication. Oiling them helps reduce friction between the coils, prevents rust and corrosion, and keeps the door operating quietly.
Average Garage Door Spring Repair Costs
Torsion springs: $150–$350 per spring, including parts and labor. Extension springs: $100–$200 per spring, slightly less expensive but less durable. Two-spring systems: $200–$400 for both springs, often replaced together for balance.
If you are ordering replacement garage door springs, however, we recommend using springs that are matched. The main reason is to maximize cycle life. Unmatched springs will usually have one with a shorter cycle life that will break first.
With torsion springs, you must position it so that the back leg is at the top and in a horizontal position. Whichever way the back leg is pointing will tell you the direction of wind. If it is pointing left, it's a left handed spring and vice versa.
Yes, you can manually open a garage door with a broken spring, but it is extremely dangerous and requires significant physical effort. A standard garage door weighs between 100 to 350+ pounds, and the springs are specifically designed to bear that weight.
How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last? The lifespan of garage door springs depends on their type and how often the door is used. Torsion Springs typically last longer, with 10,000–15,000 cycles. For example, opening and closing your door four times a day would give a torsion spring a lifespan of about 7–10 years.
To find the correct torsion spring, you must match its wire diameter, inside diameter, length, and winding direction (Left or Right) to your door's weight. Using the wrong spring can cause the door opener to fail or the door to become unbalanced.
To make it weaker, you must make the outer or inner diameter larger. Because the wire diameter remains the same, we get the same effect out of it as we did when adjusting the wire diameter. If your coils are tighter, you have a smaller index, which gives you more force.
The most common reason is a broken spring. Without it, the opener can't lift the heavy weight of the door. Look for a torsion spring split in half, an extension spring stretched or broken, or test a TorqueMaster system by manually lifting the door. If it feels very heavy, the spring is broken.