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Garage door springs come in two main types: torsion and extension. Torsion springs sit above your door and twist to lift weight. Extension springs hang on either side and stretch to pull the door up. Most New London homes use torsion springs because they're safer and last longer, but cost slightly more upfront. Knowing which one you have saves money on repairs and prevents dangerous mistakes.
Torsion springs are the premium choice for residential garages. They wind tightly around a metal rod above the door opening, storing mechanical energy that counterbalances your door's weight. When you open the door, the spring unwinds slowly and evenly. This controlled release means your door moves smoothly and your opener works less hard. See our guide on smart garage door technology in new london: what you need to know.
Extension springs, by contrast, hang on cables along the door's sides. They stretch and contract like rubber bands. Cheaper upfront, they're noisier, wear faster, and carry higher safety risks if they snap. If one breaks, the other side can't support the door alone, causing it to fall unevenly.
Most garage doors weigh between 300 and 500 pounds. A single broken torsion spring means your door won't budge without dangerous manual lifting. Extension springs fail more often because they endure constant friction and vibration. Read about garage door springs in new london: signs, costs, and same-day fixes.
Quality garage door springs last 7 to 9 years with normal use (roughly 10,000 cycles). Every time you open and close your door, that's one cycle. A household opening the door 4 times daily hits 1,460 cycles per year. After nine years, metal fatigue sets in, and snapped springs become inevitable.
If your door is hard to open, rises unevenly, or makes grinding noises, springs are weakening. Don't wait for a complete failure. A snapped spring leaves you unable to access your garage and creates a safety hazard for anyone nearby.
Learn why skipping maintenance costs you more later).
**Need garage door springs in New London today?** Call 203-889-9074. we cover same-day service across the area.
Torsion spring replacement in New London typically runs between $200 and $400 per spring, depending on weight rating and material quality. Extension springs cost $100 to $250 each. Most doors have two springs, so budget $400 to $800 for a full replacement.
Labor matters. A DIY replacement is extremely dangerous. High-tension springs store enough energy to cause serious injury or death if mishandled. Professional technicians have the right tools, safety equipment, and training. They'll also inspect your cables, pulleys, and door balance while they're there, catching other problems before they escalate.
If you need an estimate for spring replacement costs specific to your door), our team can assess your setup in person and explain exactly what you're paying for.
When a spring snaps, you need it fixed fast. Garage Door Company New London offers same-day spring replacement for homeowners throughout New London and nearby areas. We arrive with the correct springs already selected based on your door's weight and type, reducing wait time and guesswork.
Most appointments are completed within 1 to 2 hours. We won't upsell unnecessary repairs. If your springs can limp along for another season, we'll say so. If they need replacement now, we'll show you why and provide a transparent estimate before touching anything.
Schedule a free quote today) and get peace of mind that your garage door is safe and functional.
Don't try to force the door open. A snapped spring means zero mechanical assistance. Forcing it risks damaging the door, opener, or yourself. Instead, call for emergency service immediately. In the meantime, keep the garage door closed and stay out of the way.
If you're stuck outside, most emergency locksmiths can let you in through a side door or window. It's safer and cheaper than trying to lift a 400-pound door by hand.
See what to expect when your garage door gets stuck) and how fast we can get you back in business.
Annual garage door tune-ups catch spring wear before failure. A technician will lubricate the springs, check cable tension, and test door balance. Small adjustments now prevent emergency calls later.
Spring replacement isn't optional. It's a maintenance reality for every garage door owner. Plan for it, budget accordingly, and don't gamble with safety by ignoring warning signs.
Ready to schedule spring service? Call us at 203-889-9074 or book your appointment online). We'll handle the heavy lifting so you don't have to.
How do I know if my garage door spring is broken? Your door won't open or rises unevenly on one side. You might hear a loud bang or see visible gaps in the spring. Never attempt to force the door up; call for professional repair immediately.
Can I replace garage door springs myself? Not safely. Springs store massive tension energy. Improper handling causes serious injury. Professional technicians have specialized tools and training. DIY attempts void warranties and create liability.
How much does a garage door spring replacement cost? Torsion springs run $200 to $400 each; extension springs cost $100 to $250. Labor typically adds $150 to $300. Most homes need two springs, totaling $400 to $800 for complete replacement.
How long do garage door springs last? Quality springs last 7 to 9 years under normal use, roughly 10,000 cycles. Frequency of use, climate, and maintenance affect lifespan. Regular lubrication extends life slightly.
Why do springs fail in winter? Cold temperatures thicken lubricants and reduce metal flexibility. Salt air near New London also accelerates corrosion. Springs already near end of life often fail during colder months under increased stress.