2026-07-07 7 min read
In our years serving Beaverton, we've seen this problem again and again: homeowners don't understand their garage door springs until one breaks. A snapped spring leaves you stuck, and worse, it's genuinely dangerous to ignore. The good news is that understanding the basics saves money, prevents injury, and keeps your door working smoothly for years to come.
Your garage door uses one of two spring systems, and knowing which one you have matters.
Torsion springs wind above the door frame, running horizontally along a metal shaft. They store energy by twisting as the door closes, then unwind to help lift it. Most modern homes in Beaverton have torsion springs because they're more durable and last longer (typically 7 to 9 years with regular use). They also balance the door weight more evenly, which puts less stress on your opener.
Extension springs run vertically on each side of the door frame. They stretch as the door closes and contract to help lift it open. Extension springs are common in older homes and smaller doors. They wear out faster than torsion springs, usually within 5 to 7 years. They're also less forgiving if one breaks, because the other side must handle all the weight.
Both types work hard every single day. A typical garage door opens and closes 1,000 to 1,500 times per year. That's a lot of stress on a small component.
Springs don't just break randomly. They fail because metal fatigues. Every cycle weakens the spring slightly. Temperature swings in the Portland area also matter. Cold snaps cause metal to contract; warm spells cause it to expand. This constant movement eventually creates microscopic cracks that grow into a complete break.
Rust accelerates failure too. If your garage isn't sealed well or you live near moisture (common in Beaverton), corrosion eats away at spring strength from the inside out. Lack of lubrication is another culprit. Springs need regular maintenance to stay flexible and resistant to wear.
**Need garage door springs in Beaverton today?** Call (971) 265-0560. we cover same-day service across the area.
A broken spring makes itself obvious. Your door won't open, or it opens partway then crashes down. You might hear a loud snap or bang when it fails. Never try to force the door open yourself. A snapped spring removes the lifting assistance, so the door becomes dead weight. Trying to lift it manually can cause serious injury.
Other warning signs include a door that moves slowly, jerks unevenly, or feels heavier than normal. These suggest a spring is losing strength and may fail soon. If you notice any of these issues, schedule a free quote before you're stranded.
How often should you service your springs is a question we get often. The answer: at least once per year. A trained technician can spot weakening springs, apply lubrication, and catch problems before they leave you stuck in your driveway.
Spring replacement cost varies based on whether you have torsion or extension springs, and how many need replacing. For a detailed breakdown, read our complete replacement cost guide. What matters now is this: doing it right costs less than ignoring it.
When we replace springs, we do the job completely. We don't patch or limp along. Both springs get replaced at the same time, even if only one is broken. Why? Because the second spring is almost certainly near the end of its life too. Replacing one and leaving the other creates an imbalance that strains your opener and causes premature failure of the new spring.
Our full repair services include safety inspection, proper installation, and adjustment. We test the door balance before we leave, and we stand behind the work.
The single best investment is regular maintenance. Lubrication, visual inspection, and balance checks catch problems early when repair is simple. Learn more about our maintenance program and how it protects your investment.
Springs are the hardest-working part of your garage door system. Treat them with respect, and they'll treat you well for years.
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion springs typically last 7 to 9 years with regular use. Extension springs last 5 to 7 years. Lifespan depends on climate, maintenance, and how often you use the door.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself? Not safely. Springs store enormous tension and can cause serious injury or death if mishandled. Always hire a licensed professional. It's not worth the risk.
What does a garage door spring cost to replace near me? Cost varies by spring type and whether one or both need replacement. Call us at (971) 265-0560 for a same-day estimate tailored to your situation.
What happens if a garage door spring breaks? The door becomes stuck and very heavy. Your opener cannot lift it safely. Never force it open. Call a professional immediately for repair.
Do I need to replace both springs if only one is broken? Yes. Both springs are the same age and wear at the same rate. Replacing one leaves the other to fail soon after, causing another breakdown and expense.