2026-09-02
In our years serving Shrewsbury, we've seen this problem again and again: homeowners discover a snapped spring only when their garage door won't budge. Springs are the hardest working part of your system, and they fail without warning. Understanding which type you have, how long it should last, and what replacement actually costs can save you hundreds in emergency fees.
Your garage door uses one of two spring systems, and knowing which one matters for both safety and cost.
Torsion springs mount horizontally above your door opening. They twist to lift the door's weight, storing and releasing energy with each cycle. Most modern homes in Shrewsbury have torsion springs because they're smoother, quieter, and more durable than older extension designs. A torsion spring typically lasts 7 to 9 years with average use (about 10,000 cycles). When one snaps, the door becomes extremely heavy and potentially dangerous to operate.
Extension springs run vertically along each side of the door opening. They stretch and contract to support the door. Older homes sometimes still have these. Extension springs wear out faster than torsion springs, often within 5 to 7 years. They're also more prone to sudden failure because the stretching motion causes more stress over time.
Your door likely has one torsion spring or two extension springs. Identifying which type helps you understand repair costs and replacement timelines.
Springs don't last forever. Most manufacturers rate them for 10,000 to 15,000 cycles. A typical household opens and closes the door 4 to 8 times per day, which means springs cycle around 1,500 to 3,000 times annually. Do the math: your springs should serve 5 to 9 years under normal conditions.
**Need garage door springs in Shrewsbury today?** Call (508) 372-8964. we cover same-day service across the area.
Several factors shorten spring life. Harsh New England winters affect Shrewsbury homes especially hard. Cold temperatures make metal brittle. Salt air (if you're closer to the coast) accelerates rust and corrosion. Lack of lubrication forces springs to work harder. Frequent door use (like in a business setting) burns through cycles faster. If you operate your door 15 times daily instead of 4, you'll need replacement sooner.
A snapped spring rarely gives you days of warning. However, you can catch early wear before catastrophic failure happens. Listen for creaking or squeaking sounds when the door opens. Watch for the door moving slowly or unevenly. If one side rises faster than the other, the springs are losing balance. A door that feels heavier than usual to open manually is another red flag.
Never ignore these signs. A snapped spring can cause the door to crash down or refuse to open entirely, trapping your car or creating a safety hazard. Read our guide on what homeowners overlook in garage door maintenance to learn how routine inspections catch problems before they become emergencies.
Replacement cost varies based on spring type and your door's weight. Torsion springs typically cost $150 to $400 per spring, including labor. Extension springs run $100 to $250. A single snapped torsion spring usually means both springs need replacement because the second one is likely close behind (they wear together). Budget $300 to $600 for a complete torsion spring replacement on a standard residential door.
Emergency same-day service costs more than scheduled replacement. If your door is stuck and you need it fixed immediately, expect to pay a premium. Compare that to the peace of mind of scheduling replacement during normal business hours.
For a detailed breakdown of what drives these prices, check our honest garage door cost guide.
Springs are under extreme tension. A snapped or improperly installed spring can cause serious injury. Professional technicians use specialized tools and safety equipment to handle this work. We recommend calling a licensed professional rather than attempting this yourself. If you're curious about the risks, our post on when to skip the DIY approach explains why springs are different from routine maintenance tasks.
You can't prevent springs from aging, but you can extend their life. Lubricate your springs and tracks twice yearly with garage door lubricant (not WD-40). Keep the door balanced by checking it manually when closed. Schedule annual inspections to spot wear early. If you're already doing seasonal maintenance, you're ahead of most homeowners.
Getting springs replaced on your schedule costs far less than emergency replacement. A snapped spring during a snowstorm or when you need your car immediately will cost more and cause real stress. Contact us to schedule a free quote and learn when your springs should be replaced.
How do I know if my garage door has one or two springs? Most modern single-car doors use one torsion spring. Two-car doors often have one torsion spring. Older homes may have two extension springs. Look above the door opening or call a professional for confirmation. Never touch the springs yourself to inspect them.
Can I replace just one spring if only one is snapped? Technically yes, but both springs age together. If one snaps, the other is likely near failure. Replacing both at once saves money on labor and prevents a second breakdown weeks later. Most professionals recommend replacing both.
What's the difference between a snapped spring and a broken cable? Springs support the door's weight. Cables guide the door smoothly up and down. A snapped spring means the door becomes very heavy. A broken cable causes uneven opening or the door to stick. Both require professional repair, but springs are more urgent.
Do I need to call an emergency service, or can I wait until morning? If the door won't open or close safely, it's an emergency. If it's stuck shut and you're trapped, call immediately. If it opens but feels off, you can usually wait for a regular appointment. Call (508) 372-8964 to discuss your situation.
How much will spring replacement cost me? Single torsion spring replacement averages $150 to $400 in parts and labor. Both springs typically run $300 to $600. Extension springs cost less. Emergency same-day service adds $50 to $100. Get an estimate by calling or visiting our spring services page.