Garage doors are installed with either extension springs or torsion springs. Extension springs are the most common type today, especially for single stall garage doors. These springs stretch alongside the overhead door track when the door is closed and assist in the lift of the door when it is being opened.  Must homeowners assume the garage door opener is lifting the garage door up, however the garage door opener is only transmitting the time and lifting limits to the springs.  When your springs are broken the garage door opener may be able to lift the door, however this could lead to stripped gears inside the opener motor.  It may also cause the opener arm to separate from the top section.  So periodically you should check and see that your extension or torsion springs are in good shape.

The best option for operation and safety would be torsion springs.  If extension springs are required, you should make sure the garage door installer runs a safety cable through the extension spring, that then fastens to the garage door track and the punched angle extending from the ceiling.  This will ensure that in event of a broken spring it will not be thrown into your car or walls inside your garage.  However, there may be occasions, when headroom is a factor, then extension springs may be your only option. Extension springs are also easier to manipulate, if you have unlevel concrete in your garage.  This could be caused from shotty concrete installation or concrete settling.  Extension springs will allow you to take out the gap or daylight on the lower side of the garage floor.  It is always a good suggestion to ask what the spring options are for your installation and the garage door you are considering.

Extension Springs

Extension springs also are installed with specific hardware that also distinguishes them from torsion springs.  Pulleys and cables are required in any installation of extension springs.  It is a good idea to have your garage door service to inspect the cables and pulleys while they are replacing the extension springs.  While the tension is off the door it only makes since to replace them if necessary.  Below we have pictures of extension springs so you can identify what application your door uses.  We also have more information about torsion springs replacements.  Just click on the underlined link above.