Extension Springs vs Torsion Springs
If you are rebuilding or installing a new garage door for your home, one decision you may face during the process is whether to use extension springs or torsion springs for the garage door system. These are the most common springs you could choose from, and they both provide great features and benefits. This article will help you distinguish the differences of extension springs vs torsion springs.
Extension springs are the most widely used of the two, while torsion springs tend to be of a more elaborate, sophisticated design of growing popularity. There are different types of springs within each category. For example, the different types of torsion springs include: standard, EZ-set, Wayne Dalton TorqueMaster, standard commercial, steel rolling door, and one-piece curtain door torsion springs. Extension springs can be sectional garage door or one-piece garage door extension springs.
In general, extension springs get their name because of their function of stretching, or “extending” when force is applied to them. They are usually installed on the sides of the garage door and attached to the door’s swing arms. The more force that is applied, the farther the spring will extend. Extension springs usually span between 5,000 and 10,000 lifts.
Torsion springs, on the other hand, are a function of “torque.” Therefore, when pressure is applied, the springs twist and coil. Torsion springs can be found at the upper section of the door, mounted to the header of the door. They are usually much stronger, and thus more expensive, than the extension springs, and retain a longer life of 15,000 to 20,000 lifts.
Additional Help
If you are looking for a garage door professional to help you with your project, try using TalkLocal to locate one near you. TalkLocal is a free service that will connect you with top-quality, reputable professionals in your neighborhood, within minutes. Simply enter in your specific problem, location, and availability, and TalkLcoal will contact multiple companies, who will then call YOU directly, ready to help.
If you’re not sure about your installation or whether the spring in your door is right for you, call your local garage door technician and have them come take a look. You may end up saving a lot of money by doing so!