2026-08-30 7 min read A2Z Garage Doors
After 15 years pulling springs off garage doors across Burbank, I can tell you straight: torsion springs last longer, handle more weight cycles, and cost more upfront. Extension springs are cheaper but fail faster and leave you stranded more often. Here's what you need to know before your garage door springs fail at the worst possible time.
Your garage door uses one of two spring systems. Torsion springs sit above the door, twisted tight under tension. Extension springs hang on either side, stretching and contracting as the door moves up and down. The difference matters because it affects how long you'll go before calling for emergency service.
Torsion springs typically last 7 to 9 years with regular use. They handle roughly 10,000 to 15,000 open-close cycles before fatigue sets in. Extension springs? Expect 4 to 7 years. They endure constant stress on both ends, which means metal fatigue happens faster. I've seen plenty of Burbank homes with extension springs that gave out after just 3 years of heavy use.
The cost difference is real too. A torsion spring replacement runs higher than extension springs, but you're buying longevity and safety. Extension springs are cheaper to install, which is why builders use them on budget doors. But when one snaps, the other side can't handle the full load alone, and your door crashes down. That's a hazard waiting to happen.
Torsion springs distribute the door's weight evenly across a single coil system. When properly balanced, they reduce strain on the opener and door panels. A snapped torsion spring is obvious: the door won't move, and you know you need help right away. That safety feature matters.
Extension springs, on the other hand, have pulleys, cables, and safety cables that can tangle or fray over time. One spring breaks, and the safety cable should catch it. But if that cable is old or poorly installed, you get a door that's partially supported and dangerous to operate. I've replaced extension springs in Glendale and across the San Fernando Valley where the safety cable was installed backward. Don't assume previous work was done right.
**Need garage door springs in Burbank today?** Call 747-318-4623. we cover same-day service across the area.
You don't have to wait for a snapped spring to ruin your morning. Watch for these warning signs. If your door moves slowly, sounds louder than usual, or jerks unevenly, springs are wearing out. A door that won't stay open without the opener running is another red flag. Springs are losing tension.
Oil leaks around the spring coil are normal over time, but if you see rust or white powder residue, corrosion is eating the metal from inside. Burbank's dry climate actually extends spring life compared to coastal areas, but hard water and temperature swings still take their toll.
Don't ignore a door that feels heavier than it used to. That weight you're feeling is the opener compensating for weak springs. Run it long enough, and the opener motor burns out next. Then you're looking at a much bigger repair bill. I've seen that domino effect too many times.
If you need a detailed breakdown of repair versus replacement costs, we covered the financial decision in our guide on when to replace springs instead of repairing them.
A single snapped spring service call runs between $200 and $400 for most Burbank homes, depending on spring type and door size. But if you ignore the warning signs and the spring fails catastrophically, you risk damage to the door panels, cables, and opener. That repair bill jumps to $600 to $1,200 fast.
Worse, a stuck door means your car stays in the garage. You're late to work, kids miss school, and you're paying for emergency service when it's 6 a.m. on a Saturday. Prevention isn't just smart financially; it's about not getting stranded.
Our garage door maintenance tune-up service catches spring wear before failure. A yearly inspection adds years to spring life and catches other problems early. Most homeowners skip maintenance and pay for it later.
If your garage door springs sound different, move slower, or haven't been serviced in over 5 years, schedule an inspection. We'll assess whether you have torsion or extension springs, measure remaining life, and give you an honest estimate with no surprises.
Don't wait for a snapped spring to decide. Call us today at 747-318-4623 or schedule a free quote and we'll handle it with same-day service if needed. Garage Door Burbank has been keeping Burbank doors running reliably for years, and we'll make sure yours is next.
How do I know if my garage door has torsion or extension springs? Look above your door. Torsion springs run horizontally across the top in a tight coil. Extension springs hang vertically on both sides near the pulleys. Torsion springs look like a twisted metal rod; extension springs stretch and compress like a slinky.
Can I replace one extension spring and leave the other? No. Both springs wear at the same rate. Replacing only one creates imbalance, puts extra stress on the new spring, and wears out your opener faster. Always replace both springs as a pair for safety and longevity.
How much does a garage door spring replacement cost in Burbank? Torsion spring replacement typically costs $250 to $450. Extension springs run $150 to $300. Labor and spring type affect the final price. We provide free estimates before any work begins.
What's the difference between a snapped spring and a worn spring? A snapped spring fails suddenly and your door won't move at all. A worn spring loses tension gradually, so the door moves slower or feels heavier. Worn springs can still operate, but replacement is coming soon.
Should I DIY garage door spring replacement? No. Springs carry extreme tension and can cause serious injury or death if mishandled. This work requires specialized tools, knowledge, and safety training. Always hire a licensed professional for spring replacement.