2026-07-09 7 min read
If you've ever woken up to a garage door that won't budge, springs are usually the culprit. Most homeowners don't think about garage door springs until one snaps. In Justin, we see this happen year-round, and it's one of the most common calls we get. Understanding what type of spring you have and why it failed can save you money and stress.
Your garage door weighs between 300 and 900 pounds depending on size and material. A human can't lift that. Springs counterbalance the weight, making it possible for your opener to raise and lower the door smoothly. Without functional springs, your door becomes a safety hazard and dead weight.
Two main types exist: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs wind up like a clock and sit above the door on a shaft. They're built tough and last longer. Extension springs hang on either side of the door and stretch as it opens. They're cheaper upfront but wear out faster. Most homes in the Justin area use torsion springs because they handle our temperature swings better.
Torsion springs are the gold standard. They're mounted horizontally above your door and twist to store and release energy. When your door is closed, the spring is wound tight. When you open it, the spring unwinds, helping lift the door.
The lifespan of a torsion spring is roughly 7 to 9 years with average use (about 10,000 cycles per spring). In Justin's heat and humidity, we often see them last closer to 6 or 7 years. A snapped spring makes noise, stops everything, and puts all pressure on your opener. That's when you need professional help fast.
If you've ever heard a loud bang from your garage, that was probably a torsion spring breaking. Once it snaps, the door won't open unless you manually pull it or call a technician.
Extension springs sit along the left and right sides of your door opening. They stretch as the door rises and contract as it closes. They're less expensive to replace than torsion springs, but they wear out faster and require safety cables.
Safety cables run through the middle of extension springs. If a spring snaps, the cable catches it so the spring doesn't whip across your garage. This is a critical safety feature. Without those cables, a snapped spring becomes a projectile.
Extension springs typically last 4 to 7 years. We recommend checking them during your annual maintenance. Early signs include jerky door movement, uneven opening, or the door sagging on one side.
Before a spring snaps completely, there are usually warning signs. Your door might open slowly or crookedly. You might hear squeaking or creaking sounds. The door could feel heavier than usual. These hints give you time to call for a free estimate before you're stuck in an emergency.
If your door won't open at all, or opens and slams shut on its own, springs are likely the problem. Don't try to force it. Attempting DIY repairs on springs is dangerous because of the stored tension. We've seen injuries from people trying to handle this alone.
For a full breakdown of what happens when things go wrong, check out our guide on what to do when your door gets stuck.
**Need garage door springs in Justin today?** Call +1 940 461 9568. we cover same-day service across the area.
The cost to replace garage door springs depends on the type and how many you need. A torsion spring replacement runs between $200 and $400 per spring, including labor. Extension springs are cheaper, typically $150 to $250 per spring. Most doors have either one torsion spring or two extension springs.
Labor accounts for about half the bill. Springs are precise components that must be wound and installed correctly. A botched installation can damage your door or opener, costing thousands more.
We always provide a same-day estimate after inspecting your door. Call us at +1 940 461 9568 to schedule a free quote. No hidden fees, and we'll explain exactly what needs replacing and why.
For more details on pricing across all garage door services, see our complete cost guide for Justin.
If one spring is broken and your door is older than 10 years, we usually recommend replacing both springs at the same time. They age together, so the other one will likely fail soon after. Replacing both now saves you from another service call in six months.
If your springs are fairly new and only one is damaged, a single replacement is fine. We'll assess the condition of the other spring and give you our honest recommendation.
Proper maintenance helps springs last longer. Lubricate them every three months with a silicone-based spray. Keep the track clean and free of debris. Check our garage door maintenance checklist for other ways to extend component life.
We've been installing and repairing garage door springs across Justin and surrounding areas for over 15 years. We stock common spring sizes and can often complete repairs the same day you call. We stand behind our work with a warranty on all parts and labor.
Don't wait for a snapped spring to leave you stranded. If your door feels heavy, opens unevenly, or you hear unusual sounds, contact us for an inspection. We'll let you know what you're dealing with and what it costs.
Call us at +1 940 461 9568 or get a same-day estimate online. We serve Justin, Argyle, Bridgeport, and surrounding communities.
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion springs typically last 7 to 9 years, while extension springs last 4 to 7 years. Lifespan depends on usage, climate, and maintenance. North Texas heat can shorten the life of springs by 1 to 2 years.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself? No. Springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury or death if mishandled. Always hire a licensed technician. The risk isn't worth saving a few dollars.
How much does a garage door spring replacement cost? Torsion springs cost $200 to $400 per spring installed. Extension springs cost $150 to $250 per spring. Labor is typically half the total bill. Get a free estimate from us before deciding.
What happens if a spring snaps while the door is open? The door will likely fall, but safety cables on extension springs should catch it. With torsion springs, the door may drop suddenly. Never stand under a closing garage door and always call a professional immediately.
Why does my garage door open unevenly? Uneven opening usually means one spring is weaker than the other or has already failed. This puts strain on your opener and can cause further damage. Have it inspected right away.