Being
a homeowner, you have possibly never researched the components of your garage
door, but you have most probably heard of torsion or extension springs. These
are 2 different kinds of springs that are used for powering your overhead
door’s counterbalance system. The counterbalance systems employ forces to offset
the weight of the door, letting it lift and lower the garage door in a safe
manner. there are 2 main options torsion springs and extension springs.
So,
what is the difference between torsion and extension springs? Let Titan Garage
Doors explain in detail.
Torsion Springs:
Torsion
springs are perhaps the most popular & modern overhead door spring option
available today. They come in different sizes & lengths that are calculated
based on your garage door weight and height and track radius. They are the
large coiled springs located on top of the garage door, and when they operate,
they wind when lowering the garage door and unwind when lifting the garage
door.
Advantages
of torsion springs include:
- Sturdier
& long-lasting: While torsion springs are more expensive compared to
their extension counterparts, they’re more durable & last
10,000-100,000 + cycles.
- Even lift-
The torsion springs are installed on the torsion tube and turn the cable
drums and cables. The torque released, providing an even force on both
sides. Extension springs are individual which provide the lifting force on
each side, meaning if one spring is worn out the pull on that side will be
weaker!
- Safer:
when the overhead door springs break down, the torsion spring will unwinde
and make a loud bang noise but will stay on the torsion shaft, while
extension spring breaks down and snaps in half and will dislodge and might
hit a family member or your belonging causing damage or injury
Extension Springs:
extension
springs are older kind, but they are still a common choice for many garage
doors since they are not as expensive in comparison to torsion springs and are
a perfect option for small garages with low headroom. They don’t take headroom
space since they’re fitted on the sides of the door.
While
deciding, extension springs are not recommended by professionals since they are
rated at 10,000 cycles and lack the safety features that torsion springs
provide. In spite of these cons, extension springs are usually safe when the
safety cables are equipped, and they’re maintained properly.
Whether
your garage door utilizes extension or torsion spring, Titan
Garage Doors is here to make sure your garage door is safe and
functioning to the highest standard. We also do torsion or extension spring conversion as a part of our complete garage door
solutions. Remember that springs are one of the most dangerous parts of any
garage door, so don’t try to repair or replace them on your own. Always look
for a professional garage door technician and stay safe.
