Blog
Maximizing the Lifespan of Your Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs are the unsung heroes of your garage door system, doing the heavy lifting every time you open or close the door. Although they’re built to last thousands of cycles, proper care and maintenance can significantly extend their lifespan—and save you from unexpected breakdowns or costly repairs.
Whether your garage uses torsion springs or extension springs, the following tips will help you keep them functioning safely and efficiently for years to come.
Understand Your Springs’ Lifecycle
Most garage door springs are rated for a certain number of cycles—one cycle equals one open and one close. On average:
Standard springs: 10,000 cycles (approx. 7–10 years with moderate use)
High-cycle springs: 20,000–25,000 cycles
The more you use your garage door daily, the quicker those cycles add up. Daily users (2+ cycles a day) may benefit from upgrading to high-cycle springs.
Schedule Routine Maintenance
Preventive maintenance is the #1 way to extend the life of your springs. Here’s what to do every 6–12 months:
Lubricate springs with a non-silicone, garage door-specific lubricant to prevent rust and friction
Inspect for rust or corrosion—springs are under high tension and corrosion weakens their integrity
Listen for unusual noises like squeaks, grinding, or banging sounds
Check the balance of your door—disconnect the opener and manually lift the door. If it doesn’t stay halfway open, your springs may be wearing out
Keep the System in Balance
When garage doors are misaligned or off-balance, springs have to work harder to compensate, accelerating wear. A properly balanced door should:
Open and close smoothly without jerking
Stay in place when lifted halfway manually
Not put too much strain on the opener
If balance is off, call a professional to make the adjustments safely.
Protect Against Moisture and Corrosion
Garage door springs are often exposed to moisture, especially in humid or rainy climates. To prevent rust:
Apply a corrosion-resistant lubricant regularly
Inspect the garage for leaks or condensation
Consider powder-coated springs, which offer better resistance to rust
Don’t DIY Spring Repairs
Garage door springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury if handled improperly. If your spring breaks or shows signs of significant wear (gaps in the coils, excessive noise, sagging), always contact a trained technician.
Attempting DIY spring replacement is not only dangerous—it can also void your warranty.
Upgrade When Necessary
If your garage door is older or if you frequently open/close it throughout the day, consider:
Upgrading to high-cycle springs
Installing dual-spring systems (common in larger doors) to reduce load on each spring
Switching from extension to torsion springs for better control and longer life
Conclusion: A Small Effort for a Big Return
Garage door springs don’t last forever, but with proper care and routine attention, you can maximize their lifespan, avoid emergencies, and keep your garage door running safely and smoothly.
Need a spring checkup or professional service? Contact your local garage door experts today for a tune-up or spring upgrade consultation. Regular care now can prevent major issues later!