Homeowners know that a dependable garage door is essential for daily convenience and home security. When it comes time for garage door spring replacement in Draper, UT, one of the biggest decisions is whether to choose torsion or extension springs. At Advanced Garage Door, our technicians help customers make informed choices based on safety, durability, and real-world performance in Northern Utah’s demanding climate.
Understanding the Two Main Types of Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs do the heavy lifting by counterbalancing the door’s weight. There are two primary systems: torsion springs and extension springs.
Torsion springs mount horizontally above the door opening. They wind and unwind to store and release energy. Extension springs stretch along the horizontal tracks on either side of the door. Each type works well in certain situations, but they differ significantly in design and function.
Advantages and Drawbacks of Torsion Springs
Torsion springs offer several clear benefits. They provide smoother, more controlled door movement because the torque is evenly distributed. This results in quieter operation and less wear on other components.
Safety is another strong point. Torsion springs are contained on a shaft, reducing the risk of injury if one breaks. They also last longer. High-quality torsion springs often reach 20,000 to 80,000 cycles or more, depending on materials and construction.
The main downside is cost. Torsion systems are more expensive upfront and require professional installation due to the high tension involved. Still, many Draper homeowners find the investment worthwhile for the added reliability.
Advantages and Drawbacks of Extension Springs
Extension springs cost less and are simpler to install, which makes them appealing for budget-conscious projects. They work well on lighter, standard-weight garage doors.
Extension springs generally have a shorter lifespan, typically 10,000 to 15,000 cycles. They also pose greater safety risks. When stretched, they store energy that can be released suddenly if a spring breaks or a safety cable fails. Proper safety cables are a must, yet many older systems lack them.
How Draper’s Weather Affects Spring Performance
Northern Utah experiences wide temperature swings, cold winters, and dry summer heat. These conditions stress garage door springs. Cold weather makes metal contract and become brittle, while heat can accelerate rust and fatigue.
Torsion springs handle these extremes better. Powder-coated, high-cycle torsion springs resist corrosion and maintain consistent tension across temperature changes. Extension springs, especially lower-quality ones, tend to wear faster in harsh climates and may need replacement sooner.
Selecting the Right Spring for Your Door’s Weight and Style
Door weight and design play a big role in the decision. Lightweight single-car doors often work fine with extension springs. Heavier double-car doors, insulated models, or wood doors usually perform best with torsion springs because they provide stronger, more balanced lifting power.
Modern homes in Draper with larger or upgraded doors benefit most from torsion systems. The even lift prevents strain on tracks and rollers, extending the overall life of the garage door.
Why Advanced Garage Door Recommends High-Cycle Torsion Springs
Here at Advanced Garage Door, we use premium Silver Summit torsion springs whenever we can—these are powder-coated and rated for 80,000 cycles. They’re tough, resist rust, and handle Draper’s rough weather really well. That higher rating means you’ll get years of smooth operation with hardly any upkeep.
When we do a spring replacement, we balance the door, lubricate the system, and run a complete safety check. You’ll also get our lifetime warranty on parts and labor, plus free annual tune-ups, so you can feel confident it’ll stay reliable for the long haul.
Schedule Your Garage Door Spring Replacement Today
Choosing between torsion and extension springs affects safety, performance, and long-term costs. For most homeowners, high-cycle torsion springs deliver the best combination of reliability and value. Contact Advanced Garage Door today for expert garage door spring replacement in Draper, UT. Our experienced team will assess your door and recommend the ideal system to keep your garage running smoothly for years to come.
