2026-09-07 7 min read
The short answer: torsion springs sit above your garage door and twist to lift it. Extension springs run along the sides and stretch instead. Most homes in Mead have one or the other, and knowing which type you have saves you time and money when repairs happen. They're not interchangeable, and the cost to replace them differs significantly.
Torsion springs are the hardworking heroes most Mead homeowners have. They're mounted horizontally above your door on a metal shaft. When you open the door, these springs wind up like a clock spring, storing energy. That stored energy does the heavy lifting as your door rises. See our guide on garage door photo eye safety in mead: why this one feature matters most.
Torsion springs last roughly 7 to 9 years with normal use. They handle the weight distribution better than extension springs, which is why many builders prefer them. If yours snaps, you'll hear a loud bang. The door won't open unless you have a backup opener or use the emergency release.
The trade-off: torsion springs cost more to replace than extension springs. But they're more reliable, safer, and less likely to snap unexpectedly. Read about garage door springs in mead: cost, repair, and when to replace.
Extension springs hang on either side of your garage door opening. They stretch and contract as the door moves up and down. Think of them like the springs in a trampoline, just oriented vertically.
Extension springs are cheaper upfront. They're also easier to install in some retrofit situations. However, they wear faster than torsion springs and can snap with less warning. A snapped extension spring leaves your door heavier and harder to operate, even with a motorized opener.
Because extension springs stretch, they can also wear unevenly. One side may fail before the other, leaving your door lopsided.
The type of spring you have directly affects repair cost and timeline. A torsion spring replacement typically runs higher than an extension spring repair. But here's the honest part: torsion is usually the better long-term investment because you'll replace it less often.
Safety matters too. Extension springs can snap and whip around violently. Torsion springs fail more predictably. If you have young kids or pets near the garage, torsion is the safer choice.
**Need garage door springs in Mead today?** Call (720) 452-4216. We cover same-day service across the area.
When we get a call about a snapped garage door spring in Mead, the first question we ask is which type you have. That tells us what parts we need, how long the job takes, and what the estimate will look like.
Never touch a compressed spring. They're under enormous tension and can cause serious injury. But you can look from a safe distance.
Stand in your garage and look at the top of your door opening. Do you see a horizontal spring running left to right above the door? That's torsion. Do you see springs running vertically on each side of the opening? Those are extension springs.
If you're unsure, take a photo and schedule a free quote. We can identify your system and give you honest pricing without pressure.
Both spring types can sometimes be repaired, but replacement is usually smarter. A spring that's failed once is under stress. Repairing it buys you a few months, not years.
Our garage door springs repair versus replace guide walks through the math. Generally, if your springs are past 7 years old, replacement makes more sense than a patch job.
We also recommend replacing both springs at the same time, even if only one snapped. The second spring is likely to fail within months. Replacing both now prevents a second emergency call and saves labor costs.
Torsion spring replacement typically ranges from $250 to $400 per spring, depending on door weight and spring quality. Extension springs run $150 to $250 per pair. We always provide a detailed estimate before we start work, so you know exactly what you're paying for.
Browse our spring services and pricing to see what we offer in your area.
Understanding your spring type puts you in control when repairs are needed. You're not guessing or trusting a salesperson's word. You know what you have, why it matters, and what fair pricing looks like.
If your door is acting sluggish, making noise, or you suspect a spring problem, don't wait. A failing spring can damage your opener and make the door unsafe to use. Call us at (720) 452-4216 for same-day diagnostics, or get a same-day estimate online.
Garage Door Mead serves Mead, Greeley, and the surrounding areas. We're real people with real experience, and we price honestly.
How do I know if my garage door spring is about to snap? Listen for creaking or grinding sounds. If the door feels heavier than normal or opens unevenly, that's a warning sign. A spring under stress may also show visible rust or separation at the coils. Don't force a stuck door; call for help instead.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself? Technically yes, but we don't recommend it. Springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury or death if mishandled. Professional replacement takes an hour and costs far less than an emergency room visit. Safety is worth the investment.
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion springs typically last 7 to 9 years with average use, rated for roughly 10,000 to 15,000 cycles. Extension springs wear faster, usually 5 to 7 years. Heavy use or poor maintenance shortens both timelines. Regular tune-ups help extend spring life.
Is a torsion spring really better than an extension spring? For most homeowners, yes. Torsion springs are safer, last longer, and distribute weight more evenly. Extension springs are cheaper upfront but need replacement sooner. If your door is 15 or older with extension springs, upgrading to torsion is worth considering.
What should I do if my garage door spring snaps? Stop using the door immediately. A snapped spring puts extra strain on your opener and makes the door unsafe. Don't try to force it open. Call (720) 452-4216 for emergency service. We offer same-day repairs across Mead and nearby areas.