How to Choose Garage Door Torsion Springs
Garage doors are one of the most used parts of our homes. They are heavy and have lots of moving parts that will wear down and eventually break. When it is time to replace the torsion springs it is highly recommended that you consult with an expert. Based on your consultation you can choose to have a professional replace the springs or you can order new springs. In this post, we’ll share valuable information that will help you understand how to choose garage door torsion springs for your project.
What Are Torsion Springs?
Torsion springs↗ are one of the most popular spring systems used with garage door openers. Despite being one of the more expensive options torsion spring systems have many benefits:
- Durable
- Less likely to break
- Low-maintenance
- Discreet design
How Do They Work?
Torsion springs have cones on each end. One end has a stationary cone that is secured to an anchor bracket and the other is a winding cone. The winding cone is used to install and uninstall the springs as well as to adjust the tension in the springs. If you are purchasing replacement torsion springs make sure both cones are in the spring. You’ll also want to order winding bars in order to operate the winding cone, you cannot use a screwdriver as an alternative to winding bars.
A garage door that functions correctly is supported by the correct springs and cables. The cables will hold the weight of the door while the springs provide the energy to lift and lower a balanced door. The springs also support the garage door opener by relieving some of the stress from the weight of the door.
How Many Springs Do I Need to Replace?
Some doors have one torsion spring and others have up to four springs. If one spring breaks, you should replace all of the springs because it is probably also at the end of its cycle life. The cycle life of a spring is determined by how much use it gets and how much strain the spring can experience.
My Springs Are Different Sizes
If the springs on your garage door are different sizes make sure to identify the best match for your door. After identifying the correct spring size make sure that the replacements all match. Mismatched springs will cause other problems like an unbalanced door or wear down the door opener.
How To Choose Garage Door Torsion Springs?
Garage door springs must properly match the door’s weight. Choosing springs that can support the weight will provide you with a properly balanced door. Balanced doors:
- Stay flat on the floor when closed
- Can be suspended halfway up or down the door
- Won’t have any problems staying open
Get The Correct Measurements
Measurements you’ll want to note include:
- Height and weight of the door
- Length of the spring
- Wire size
- Spring wind direction
- Inner diameter
Door Measurements
Weight your door using an analog bathroom scale. When ordering springs using the weight of the door you’ll also want to measure the height of the door, the cable drum number, and the track radius.
Spring Measurements
- Length: Measure the spring from the first to the last coil.
- Wire Size: Measure the thickness of the wire in the spring. To measure wire size, insert the tape measure between the first two coils and stretch it to the last coil between the 10th and 11th coils.
- Spring Wind: Left wind springs are located on the right-hand side of the door and right wind springs are located on the left side. “If the end of the spring points in the clockwise direction it is a left-wound and if the end of the spring points in the counterclockwise direction, it is right-wound” (IDC Spring↗).
- Inner Diameter: Measure the diameter of 1/16” of an inch. Sometimes this number is written on the winding or stationary cone. If you see a 1.75 on the cone the spring has a 13/4-inch diameter.
Order Torsion Springs
Have your measurements ready when you order your replacement torsion springs. Having the correct information will save you time and ensure you order the correct springs for your door.
You can order torsion springs from your local garage door experts or from another hardware store. Garage door specialty shops typically carry more options and can offer valuable assistance.
Heritage Garage Door has served Southern California homeowners for over 30 years. Explore our website to learn more about us or contact us to schedule a repair, replacement, or installation service.
