Garage doors are built for daily use, and their springs bear most of the mechanical stress. Springs support the door’s weight, balance movement, and work in tandem with the opener to ensure safe operation. When one spring breaks, many homeowners ask whether they should replace both or just the damaged one. While replacing a single spring may seem cost-effective in the short term, professionals usually recommend replacing both to ensure balance, efficiency, and safety during Garage Door Spring Repair.
Why Does Replacing Both Garage Door Springs Matter?
Garage door springs are designed to work as a pair. When one breaks, the other is usually close to the end of its cycle life. Continuing to use an old spring alongside a new one creates uneven tension, which may strain the torsion bar, coil, or garage door opener. Uneven wear not only compromises smooth lifting and lowering but also increases the likelihood of misalignment.
In commercial garage door repair, where larger and double doors are common, uneven spring tension poses even higher risks. Business operations depend on reliable doors, and a failure can disrupt schedules, delay deliveries, and add repair costs. By replacing both springs, homeowners and companies maintain consistent performance and reduce the chances of sudden breakdowns that could lead to expensive emergency services.
Professional garage door companies explain it simply: the two springs share the workload equally. Replacing one without the other disrupts this balance, making the newer spring overcompensate. This accelerates wear and can damage the opener or door components.
What Are the Common Problems With Garage Door Springs?
Springs fail for multiple reasons, most of which are preventable with proper maintenance:
- Broken or snapped coils – Often caused by reaching their maximum cycle life (typically 10,000–20,000 cycles).
- Rust and corrosion – Moisture, salt exposure, and lack of lubrication weaken the metal over time.
- Incorrect size or type – Using the wrong torsion or extension springs creates unsafe balance and instability.
- Improper winding or tension – Incorrect installation results in uneven lifting force, putting strain on other parts.
- Overhead strain – A bad spring forces the garage door opener and torsion bar to handle extra weight, leading to premature opener failure.
Commercial garage doors face a level of strain that is far greater than what most residential systems endure. Unlike standard home garages, which may open and close only a few times each day, commercial doors in warehouses, delivery centers, auto shops, and storage facilities often operate dozens or even hundreds of times daily. This high-frequency use accelerates wear on critical components—especially springs, which are responsible for carrying the bulk of the door’s weight and balancing its movement.
The weight factor also plays a major role. Commercial doors are often larger and heavier, constructed from reinforced steel or insulated panels designed to secure high-value equipment or inventory. These doors require heavy-duty torsion springs that can manage the increased load. Even when installed correctly, the constant cycle of lifting and lowering causes the coils to fatigue more quickly than in residential applications. The heavier the door, the more stress is placed on every turn of the spring, which shortens its service life.
What Are the Key Benefits of Replacing Both Springs?
Replacing both springs offers benefits beyond just functionality:
- Maintains proper balance – Ensures the door opens and closes evenly, preventing jerky or noisy operation.
- Reduces strain on connected parts – Protects the opener, tracks, bearings, and cables from excess stress.
- Avoids repeated service calls – Saves on labor costs by addressing both springs in one visit.
- Enhances safety – Balanced tension reduces the risk of accidents, snapped coils, or uncontrolled door drops.
- Extends system lifespan – Consistent spring cycles mean all parts wear evenly, extending the life of the garage door system.
- Increases efficiency – A properly balanced door moves smoothly, reducing energy use and improving long-term reliability.
Garage door installation companies often recommend spring replacement during upgrades like garage door opener installation or complete garage door replacement. By syncing new parts together, the system works more efficiently and safely.
What Is the Role of Local Garage Door Repair Companies?
Local providers such as Local Garage Door Repair play a critical role in keeping both residential and commercial doors safe. They specialize in diagnosing spring issues, replacing broken torsion or extension springs, and ensuring correct winding and tension adjustment.
These companies often stock a variety of springs, parts, and accessories for faster service. Many also provide same-day or emergency repair to minimize downtime after a spring failure. Their services extend beyond springs, covering opener repair, dent repair, and even complete door replacement.
As one experienced professional notes:
“Replacing both springs at once is an investment in balance and safety. It reduces strain on the opener, prevents uneven wear, and saves customers future repair costs.”
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Both Garage Door Springs?
Costs depend on the type of springs, door size, labor, and whether the job is residential or commercial. Below is an approximate pricing guide:
| Service Type | Average Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Spring Replacement (both) | $200 – $400 | Includes parts, labor, and tension adjustment |
| Commercial Garage Door Spring Replacement | $300 – $600+ | Larger doors, heavy-duty coils, or double setups |
| Garage Door Opener Repair | $125 – $250 | Necessary if opener damage occurred from bad springs |
| Garage Door Opener Installation | $300 – $600 | Installing or upgrading to LiftMaster or smart openers |
| Garage Door Replacement | $800 – $2,500+ | Full replacement with springs, accessories, and installation |
Disclaimer: These prices are averages. Costs vary depending on company, location, type of springs, and availability of supplies. Always request a written estimate before scheduling replacement.
What Are the Key Features of Professional Spring Replacement?
Professional service providers offer benefits DIY attempts cannot match:
- Correct sizing and installation – Technicians measure the door’s weight and select springs that match exact specifications.
- Use of proper tools – Including winding bars, torque charts, and safety clamps for safe installation.
- Access to quality supplies – Reliable companies source parts from trusted suppliers for longer performance.
- Versatility – Ability to replace both torsion and extension springs, as well as repair openers, tracks, or cables.
- Safety inspections – Identifying cracks, bent tracks, or misaligned rollers to prevent future failures.
- Transparent pricing – Upfront service costs with no hidden fees.
- Emergency service – 24/7 or same-day repair for snapped springs and stuck doors.
- Integrated upgrades – Options to combine spring replacement with opener installation, dent repair, or complete garage door replacement.
FAQs About Garage Door Spring Replacement
Q1: Can I replace only one spring if the other still works?
While possible, it’s not recommended. The older spring is likely close to failing, leading to repeated costs.
Q2: How much does it cost to replace springs near me?
On average, $200–$400 for residential and $300–$600+ for commercial systems. Local companies may vary in pricing.
Q3: What types of springs are used in garage doors?
Most use torsion springs, while smaller or older systems may have extension springs. Commercial doors often need heavy-duty coils.
Q4: Can I buy springs from a store and install them myself?
Springs are available from suppliers, but DIY installation is unsafe without professional tools. A winding mistake can cause severe injury.
Q5: How often should springs be replaced?
Every 7–10 years for standard use. High-cycle springs can last longer in busy households or commercial settings.
Q6: Why do commercial springs cost more?
They’re larger, handle more cycles, and often require multiple technicians for installation.
Q7: Does replacing springs improve opener performance?
Yes. Balanced springs reduce opener strain, improving efficiency and extending its lifespan.
Q8: What happens if I ignore a broken spring?
The door may not open, could drop suddenly, or cause damage to the opener and cables, creating safety risks.
Conclusion: Should You Replace Both Springs?
Yes—replacing both garage door springs at once is the safest and most cost-effective option. One new and one old spring create imbalance, risk opener damage, and shorten system lifespan. Whether it’s residential or commercial garage door repair, professionals strongly recommend replacing both springs together.
Companies like Lockle Garage Door Repair provide expertise, correct parts, and same-day service to keep doors operating smoothly. With transparent pricing, emergency support, and access to quality supplies, they ensure every spring replacement is done safely and efficiently.
From reducing strain on the opener to extending the system’s lifespan, the investment in replacing both springs pays off in safety, performance, and peace of mind. For homeowners and businesses alike, scheduling professional spring replacement is a smart decision that prevents costly breakdowns and ensures your garage door remains reliable for years to come.
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