2026-07-22 7 min read
Your garage door springs are doing the heavy lifting every single day, and most homeowners have no idea which type they're running. I've been fixing garage doors in Mukilteo and across the Puget Sound for 15 years, and I can tell you: knowing whether you have a torsion or extension spring could save you money, headaches, and a potential safety issue. Let's cut through the confusion about garage door springs so you understand what's holding your door up right now.
A garage door weighs between 300 and 500 pounds. Your opener motor isn't strong enough to lift that alone. Springs counterbalance the weight, making the door feel light when you open it manually and reducing strain on your opener. Without springs working correctly, your opener burns out fast, your door becomes a safety hazard, and you're stuck with a garage door that won't budge.
There are two main spring types in residential garage doors: torsion springs and extension springs. Your door has one or the other, sometimes both. Which one you have depends on your door's design, your garage layout, and when it was installed.
Torsion springs sit horizontally above your garage door opening, mounted on a metal shaft. They work by twisting (or torquing) when your door opens and closes. As the door closes, the spring winds tighter, storing energy. When you open it, that stored energy unwinds, lifting the door.
Torsion springs are the industry standard for good reason. They're more durable, last longer (typically 7 to 9 years with normal use), and take up less space. They're also safer because they're contained above the door where they can't snap into your garage. If you have a newer garage door, you almost certainly have torsion springs.
The tradeoff? They cost more to replace. A single torsion spring replacement runs $150 to $300 in Mukilteo, depending on spring size and your door's weight. If both springs fail, you're looking at $300 to $600 for the pair plus labor.
Extension springs hang vertically on both sides of your door opening, usually mounted on tracks. They work like a stretched rubber band. As your door closes, the springs stretch. When it opens, they contract, pulling the door up through a pulley system.
Extension springs are cheaper upfront but fail more often and wear out faster, typically in 5 to 7 years. They're also a safety concern because if a spring snaps, the cable can whip across your garage with serious force. Many older Mukilteo homes still have extension springs, but I always recommend upgrading to torsion if budget allows.
**Need garage door springs in Mukilteo today?** Call 425-696-7571. We cover same-day service across the area.
Look above your garage door. Do you see a horizontal shaft with springs wrapped around it? That's torsion. Do you see springs hanging vertically on the left and right sides of the opening? Those are extension springs. You can also check your garage door opener manual or take a photo and call us at 425-696-7571.
If you're unsure or suspect a snapped spring, don't try to operate your door. A broken spring means the door's full weight is on your opener, which will burn out fast. We've written a detailed guide on recognizing the signs of a snapped garage door spring and what to do next.
Spring replacement cost in Mukilteo depends on the type, your door's weight, and labor. Extension springs typically cost $100 to $250 per pair. Torsion springs run $150 to $300 per spring, and most doors need both replaced together (they wear as a pair). Labor adds $100 to $200 more.
If you're looking at a full replacement quote, check out our breakdown of what spring replacement actually costs and when it makes sense. We offer free estimates and can usually schedule same-day service if you call early.
Spring maintenance helps extend their life. Regular lubrication, keeping your door balanced, and addressing opener issues early all reduce wear. But springs will eventually fail. Torsion springs last longer, so if you have extension springs, budgeting for an upgrade to torsion is smart preventive planning.
Spring replacement is not a DIY job. Springs are under extreme tension. A snapped spring or improper installation can cause serious injury or damage. Even an experienced homeowner can get hurt. Garage Door Mukilteo handles spring replacement safely and quickly. Schedule a free quote or call 425-696-7571 for same-day service.
If your door is acting sluggish, unbalanced, or making grinding sounds, springs may be wearing. Catching problems early saves money. Contact us today for a free inspection.
How long do garage door springs typically last? Torsion springs last 7 to 9 years under normal use. Extension springs last 5 to 7 years. Lifespan depends on climate, frequency of use, and maintenance. Our Mukilteo customers in damp conditions may see slightly shorter lifespans due to corrosion.
Can I replace one spring if the other is fine? Not recommended. Garage doors use paired springs that wear together. Replacing only one creates imbalance, strains your opener, and the second spring will fail soon. Replace both springs at the same time for safety and balance.
What's the difference in cost between torsion and extension springs? Extension springs cost $100 to $250 per pair. Torsion springs run $150 to $300 per spring (so $300 to $600 for a pair). Labor adds $100 to $200. Torsion costs more upfront but lasts longer and is safer.
Is it safe to use my garage door if one spring is broken? No. A broken spring puts the full door weight on your opener, which will burn out within days. Your door may drop unexpectedly, creating a safety hazard. Call a professional immediately.
How often should I have my springs inspected? We recommend an inspection every 2 to 3 years. If your door is 7 years old with torsion springs or 5 years old with extension springs, schedule a free estimate. Early detection prevents emergency repairs and keeps your door safe.