How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last?
Garage door springs do not wear out by age so much as by use. Every time the door opens and closes, the spring goes through one cycle, and every spring is built for a limited number of cycles.
Request a technicianSprings are rated in cycles
One cycle is one open and one close. Many standard springs installed on new homes are rated for around 10,000 cycles. Higher-cycle springs are available and last longer. A household that uses the garage door several times a day will reach the limit far sooner than one that uses it once a day.
What shortens spring life
Heavy daily use, rust from humid weather, and a door that is out of balance all shorten spring life.
Warning signs
The door feels heavier than it used to, rises unevenly, slams shut, or the opener strains. On torsion springs you may see a gap starting to form in the coil. On extension springs, look for stretched or uneven coils.
Should both springs be replaced?
If your door has two springs, they have done the same number of cycles. When one breaks, the other is usually close behind, so replacing both at once is often recommended.
Getting more life from springs
Have the door balanced correctly, keep springs lightly lubricated, and consider higher-cycle springs if your garage is your main entrance. A yearly garage door tune-up catches problems early.
Leave spring work to a pro
Springs hold enough tension to cause serious injury. If yours is broken or showing wear, see garage door spring repair.
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