Torsion vs. Extension Springs Which is Better
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When your garage door stops working, the springs are often the hidden problem, yet most homeowners don’t realize how crucial these components are to the garage door.
If you’re deciding between torsion vs. extension springs, the choice directly affects your door’s performance, safety, and longevity.
In Ottawa’s fluctuating climate, the right spring system can mean fewer breakdowns, smoother operation, and better long-term value.
Our guide breaks down the differences so you can make the most informed decision for your home and know exactly what to ask for when calling a trusted local provider like Ottawa Garage Doors & Openers.
What Do Garage Door Springs Do?
Every garage door, whether installed in a new Kanata build or an older Centretown home, relies on its springs to counterbalance weight.
Without functioning springs, your opener would strain, the door would feel heavy, and safety risks would rise.
Springs store mechanical energy, allowing your garage door to lift smoothly and safely thousands of times over its lifespan.
The quality, type, and installation method all influence performance.
Torsion vs. Extension Springs: What's The Difference?
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs sit above the garage door on a metal shaft. When the door closes, they twist tightly, storing torque. As the door opens, the springs unwind, providing controlled lifting power.
This twisting mechanism delivers smooth, stable motion and minimizes the jerking often felt with cheaper systems.
Benefits of Torsion Springs
1. Superior Safety
Torsion springs are mounted on a shaft, so if a spring breaks, it stays contained rather than snapping outward. This safety feature helps homeowners feel more secure, especially in homes with children or pets.
2. Longer Lifespan
Most torsion springs last 15,000–25,000 cycles, and high-cycle options installed by Ottawa Garage Doors & Openers can exceed that. This reliability offers homeowners peace of mind and confidence in their investment, especially during Ottawa’s harsh winters.
3. Smooth, Quiet Operation
The controlled torque reduces noise and bouncing. If you want quieter garage door operation, essential for townhomes or bedrooms above garages, torsion springs are the clear winner.
4. Better Balance & Less Wear
Because torsion springs distribute weight evenly across the door, they reduce the strain on cables, rollers, hinges, and the opener. This translates into fewer breakdowns and more efficient operation.
Extension Springs
Extension springs are mounted on either side of the garage door and stretch as the door closes. When the door opens, the springs contract, helping lift the door. They are more common in older Ottawa homes and budget installations.
Benefits of Extension Springs
1. Lower Upfront Cost
Extension springs cost less, making them attractive for homeowners with tight budgets or quick property flips.
2. Compatible With Low Headroom
If your garage has limited overhead space, typical in older Ottawa bungalows, extension springs may fit where torsion springs cannot without special hardware.
Torsion vs. Extension Springs: Which Is Better for Ottawa Homes?
Choosing between torsion and extension springs comes down to safety, performance, cost, and long-term reliability. For most Ottawa homeowners, torsion springs offer better value, even though they cost more upfront.
Why Torsion Springs Win Overall
- They last longer.
- They operate more smoothly in cold temperatures.
- They cause less wear on the opener.
- They reduce noise—ideal for attached garages.
- They offer superior safety and containment in the event of a break.
When Extension Springs Make Sense
- Extremely tight budgets.
- Garages with limited overhead clearance.
- Short-term solutions or temporary installations.
For the average homeowner wanting reliability, safety, and long-term savings, torsion springs are the recommended choice.
Professional Installation Matters
Whether you choose torsion or extension springs, proper installation is crucial. Garage door springs hold enormous tension, and DIY repair can cause severe injuries.
A certified technician from Ottawa Garage Doors & Openers ensures your system is installed with the correct balance, tension, and safety cables, which is significant for extension springs.
Our technicians handle:
- Spring conversions (switching extension systems to torsion)
- High-cycle spring upgrades
- Complete garage door spring replacements
- Opener tune-ups and balance tests
- Emergency garage door repair anywhere in Ottawa, Orleans, Barrhaven, Nepean, and surrounding areas
Professional installation ensures your door operates safely and extends the life of your motor and all moving parts.
Which Spring System Is Better for Modern Automatic Openers?
Torsion springs pair best with today’s belt-drive and smart Wi-Fi openers because they keep the door balanced.
The compatibility helps homeowners feel confident in their system’s performance and longevity.
This reduces motor strain, improves quiet performance, and extends the opener’s lifespan, especially important in colder months when motors already work harder.
Signs Your Garage Door Springs Need Replacement
If your springs are failing, you might notice:
- The door feels heavier or won’t stay open.
- The opener struggles or makes loud grinding noises.
- The door opens a few inches and stops.
- Visible gaps in the spring coil.
- Crooked door movement.
If any of these symptoms show up, contact Ottawa Garage Doors & Openers right away. Delaying repairs can cause cable damage, opener burnout, or even sudden door drops.
FAQs
How long do torsion springs last?
Torsion springs usually last 15,000–25,000 cycles, depending on usage and quality. High-cycle options can last even longer, especially when installed by professionals.
Are torsion springs safer than extension springs?
Yes, they are generally safer because they remain mounted on a shaft when they break. Extension springs can snap outward unless safety cables are installed.
Can I replace garage door springs myself?
DIY replacement is dangerous due to the extreme tension in the springs. Professional service is highly recommended to avoid injury or property damage.
Should I convert from an extension spring to a torsion spring?
Many homeowners upgrade because torsion systems last longer and operate more smoothly. Conversions are common and can be done on most garage doors.
How do I know if my springs are broken?
You may see a visible gap in the spring, or the door may refuse to open fully. If the door feels unusually heavy, that is also a strong sign of spring failure.
Ready for a Safer, Smoother Garage Door? Contact Ottawa Garage Doors & Openers Today
When comparing torsion vs. extension springs, torsion springs stand out as the better long-term investment for most Ottawa homeowners.
They offer smoother performance, superior safety, longer lifespan, and optimal compatibility with modern openers.
For expert garage door spring repair, reliable service, and trusted local support, Ottawa Garage Doors & Openers is here to help keep your garage door operating smoothly year-round.
