Buying guide
Torsion vs extension springs, and when to convert
Torsion springs sit on a bar above the door and twist. Extension springs run along the tracks on each side and stretch. Torsion systems are smoother, last longer and are safer when a spring breaks, which is why many homeowners convert.
Look up at your closed garage door from inside. If you see one or two large coils on a metal bar right above the door, you have torsion springs. If you see long springs running toward the back of the garage above each horizontal track, often with a pulley, you have extension springs.
Side-by-side
| Torsion springs | Extension springs | |
|---|---|---|
| Where | On a bar above the door | Above each horizontal track |
| How they work | Twist to lift the door | Stretch and pull the door up |
| Typical life | Longer; high-cycle options available | Shorter in general |
| When one breaks | Stays on its bar | Can whip loose unless safety cables are installed |
| Balance and feel | Smooth, even lift on both sides | Can lift unevenly as springs wear |
| Noise | Quieter | More stretching noise and bounce |
| Works with wall-mount openers | Yes | No |
| Headroom needed | About 10 to 12 inches above the door | Can fit lower ceilings |
When a torsion conversion makes sense
- An extension spring just broke, and you're paying for a visit anyway.
- The door lifts unevenly or bounces.
- You want a wall-mount (jackshaft) opener, which needs torsion springs.
- You'd like to clear the ceiling for storage or a car lift, often together with high-lift tracks.
- There are kids around and the extension springs have no safety cables.
A conversion swaps the extension springs, pulleys and cables for a spring bar, torsion springs, drums and new cables, sized to your door's weight and height.
When extension springs are fine
On a light single-car door with plenty of life left in its springs, and with safety cables through each spring, extension springs can keep working for years. Low headroom can also rule out torsion; ask us to measure.
Questions
Which is better, torsion or extension springs?
For most homes, torsion springs. They lift more smoothly, last longer, and stay contained when they break. Extension springs cost less up front and fit low headroom.
How do I know which springs I have?
Torsion springs are on a bar directly above the closed door. Extension springs run parallel to the ceiling tracks on each side.
Do extension springs need safety cables?
Yes. A cable running through the middle of each spring keeps a broken spring from flying across the garage.
How much headroom does a torsion spring need?
Usually around 10 to 12 inches above the top of the door opening, depending on the hardware. Low-headroom kits exist for tighter garages.