2026-05-15 7 min read A2Z Garage Doors
Let's cut through the confusion about garage door springs. You've got two main types in use today: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs sit above your door and twist under load. Extension springs run along the sides and stretch to pull the door open. Knowing which one you have matters when a snapped spring puts your garage door out of commission.
Torsion springs are the industry standard in most modern homes, especially in the Pacific Northwest. They're wound tightly and store enormous energy. When one fails, the door becomes nearly impossible to open manually. They typically last 7 to 9 years under normal use, maybe longer if you're gentle on the system.
Extension springs work differently. They're mounted on each side of the door frame and stretch as the door lowers. If one breaks, you'll notice the door pulling to one side. Extension springs tend to wear faster than torsion springs because each one bears the full load independently. Homes built before 2000 often have extension springs; newer construction usually runs torsion.
Both types can fail suddenly. Age, temperature swings (common here in Chehalis and across Lewis County), and daily wear all contribute. A snapped spring isn't something to ignore. The door becomes a safety hazard, and your opener works twice as hard trying to compensate.
Springs fail because they're designed to fail. They cycle thousands of times. A typical garage door opens and closes 3 to 5 times daily. Over seven years, that's 7,600 to 12,000 cycles. Metal fatigue is inevitable.
Winter weather accelerates failure. Cold temperatures make metal brittle. The moisture and temperature fluctuations in our region stress springs constantly. That's why we see clusters of spring failures November through February.
Cost varies based on which spring you need and labor complexity. Torsion springs run $150 to $300 for parts. Extension springs cost slightly less, around $100 to $200 per spring. Here's the honest part: labor is where the real cost sits. A qualified technician needs 1 to 2 hours, depending on access and whether both springs need replacement. You're looking at $200 to $400 in labor. A complete same-day repair typically runs $400 to $700 total, not counting service call fees.
**Need garage door springs in Chehalis today?** Call 360-233-8542. we cover same-day service across the area.
I always recommend replacing both springs even if only one is broken. The second one is likely near failure anyway. Replacing them together prevents a second emergency call in six months. It's more efficient and saves money overall.
Regular maintenance catches problems early. When we check your door's seasonal readiness, we inspect spring tension and listen for stress sounds. A slight creak or groan signals trouble brewing.
Lubricate springs twice yearly with silicone spray, not WD-40. Heat cycling makes springs work harder, so keep your garage temperature reasonable if possible. Don't ignore a door that feels heavier than usual. That's often the first warning sign.
If you want to understand how springs interact with your entire door system, including the opener and sensors, our smart garage door guide covers the full picture. Springs are just one piece, but a critical one.
Never attempt spring replacement yourself. Compressed torsion springs hold enough energy to cause serious injury or death. Extension springs carry tension that can snap unexpectedly. This isn't DIY territory, regardless of your skill level.
Call us for a free estimate before you book anything. We'll diagnose which spring failed and whether the other needs attention. Schedule a free quote and we'll give you an honest breakdown of parts and labor costs. No surprises. No upselling.
Same-day service is available most days. We serve Chehalis and surrounding areas including Napavine, Winlock, and beyond. If your door stops working, call 360-233-8542 right away.
How do I know if my garage door spring is broken? The door stops moving or moves only partially. You may hear a loud snap or bang. The door feels heavier than normal, or the opener runs but the door doesn't move. Never force it; call a professional immediately.
Can I open my garage door if a spring is broken? Technically yes, but it's dangerous. A broken spring removes the counterbalance. The door becomes extremely heavy. Your opener may burn out trying to lift it. Manual opening risks pinched fingers or dropped door.
How long does spring replacement take? A technician usually needs 1 to 2 hours on site. We'll inspect both springs, discuss options, and complete the work same day in most cases. Total time depends on access and spring type.
Should I replace both springs at once? Yes. If one has failed, the other is near the end of its life. Replacing both saves a second service call and costs less in the long run than staggered repairs.
What's the difference between torsion and extension springs? Torsion springs twist above the door. Extension springs stretch along the sides. Torsion is standard in newer homes and typically more reliable. Extension springs wear faster but cost slightly less to replace.