If you’ve got a old garage door, chances are you’ve got extension springs. These little workhorses play a big role in lifting and lowering your garage door, making it easy to open and close. But here’s the thing—extension springs can be downright dangerous if they’re not handled properly. That’s why at Overhead Door of Puget Sound, we take them seriously. If you need installation, repair, or replacement, give us a call at (253) 400-3880. Let’s talk about what makes these springs so important, why they can be risky, and how to keep them working safely.
What Are Extension Springs?
Extension springs are one of the two main types of springs used in garage doors, the other being torsion springs. Unlike torsion springs, which are mounted above the door, extension springs run along the sides of the garage door and stretch as the door closes. This stretching action builds up energy, which is then released to help lift the door when you open it.
Here’s a quick breakdown of their key features:
- Location: Mounted on both sides of the garage door, parallel to the horizontal tracks.
- Function: Stretch to store energy when the door closes, release energy to help lift when opening.
- Parts Included: Safety cables, pulleys, and attachment brackets.
While extension springs are more common in residential garage doors, they require proper installation and maintenance to avoid potential hazards.
Why Are Extension Springs Dangerous?
Let’s be clear: extension springs are powerful, and if one snaps, it can turn into a flying projectile. That’s not just a scary thought—it’s a real safety hazard. Here’s why:
- High Tension = High Risk Extension springs hold a tremendous amount of energy when stretched. If they break, that energy is released instantly, sending pieces flying across your garage at dangerous speeds. They have been known to go through walls.
- Improper Installation Can Lead to Accidents If the springs aren’t installed correctly, they can cause the garage door to operate unevenly or even fail completely. An imbalanced door can come crashing down, damaging property or, worse, injuring someone.
Lack of Safety Cables Many older garage doors with extension springs lack safety cables. These cables run through the center of the springs and keep broken pieces contained in case of failure. Without them, a snapping spring can cause serious harm.
We Still Install Extension Springs—Here’s Why
Even with the risks, we still install extension springs. Why? Because when installed and maintained correctly, they’re safe, effective, and cost-efficient. They’re often a great option for garages with limited headroom where torsion springs just won’t fit. When it comes to cost they are cheaper for the customer, we recommend you get a conversion to torsion spring set however, they can be up there in price.
At Overhead Door of Puget Sound, we do everything by the book. That means:
- Using the right size and type of extension springs for your specific garage door.
- Installing high-quality safety cables to prevent accidents.
- Ensuring proper balancing and tensioning to keep your door operating smoothly.
- Providing regular maintenance to catch wear and tear before it becomes a problem.
Signs Your Extension Springs Need Replacing
Like any mechanical part, extension springs don’t last forever. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to give us a call:
- Gaps in the Spring Coils – If your springs have gaps in them, they’re losing tension and won’t function properly.
- Rust or Corrosion – Rust weakens the metal, making it more likely to snap.
- Strange Noises – Squeaking or popping sounds can indicate that your springs are wearing out.
- Difficulty Opening the Door – If your garage door feels heavier than usual or struggles to open, the springs might be failing.
One Side is Higher Than the Other – This means one spring is weaker than the other, causing an imbalance.
Safety First: Why You Should Leave Repairs to the Pros
It’s tempting to tackle home repairs yourself, but garage door extension springs are not a DIY project. Attempting to replace or adjust them without the right tools and experience can lead to injury—or worse.
Professional installation and repair ensure:
- The right springs are used for your door’s weight and size.
- Proper tension is applied to avoid imbalances.
- Safety cables are installed correctly.
- Your door operates smoothly and safely for years to come.
What is an extension spring on a garage door?
An extension spring is a type of garage door spring that stretches along the horizontal tracks on both sides of the door. When the door closes, the springs stretch, storing energy. When the door opens, the stored energy helps lift the door.
What is the difference between tension spring and extension spring?
The main difference is how they store energy. Extension springs stretch to store energy, while torsion (sometimes called tension) springs twist to store energy. Extension springs run along the sides of the garage door, while torsion springs sit above the door on a metal shaft.
What are the disadvantages of extension springs?
Extension springs can be dangerous if they break, as they can snap and send metal pieces flying. They also require more parts (like pulleys and safety cables) and don’t last as long as torsion springs. Additionally, they can cause the garage door to be slightly less balanced compared to a torsion system.
What is an extension spring used for?
Extension springs are used to counterbalance the weight of a garage door, making it easier to open and close. They are a common option for residential garage doors, especially when there’s not enough space to install a torsion spring system.
Need Help? Call the Pros
If you suspect your extension springs need servicing or replacement, don’t wait until they break. Give us a call at (253) 400-3880. At Overhead Door of Puget Sound, we’ve got the expertise to handle garage door extension springs safely and efficiently. Your garage door is one of the most important moving parts of your home—let’s make sure it stays in top shape!
