Torsion vs. Extension Springs: Which Is Right for You?

Torsion Vs Extension Spring Which Is Right For You

If your garage door isn’t opening smoothly, or has stopped working altogether, it could be time to inspect the springs. When it comes to residential garage doors, torsion and extension springs are the two most common types used. But how do they work, and which is right for you?

Read on to explore the key differences between these spring types, how they affect door performance, and which option may suit your home best.

What Do Garage Door Springs Actually Do?

Garage doors are heavy. Even B&D’s lightweight models are designed with premium materials that can weigh 100 kilograms or more. The spring system is what makes manual lifting possible and allows your opener to do the hard work with minimal effort.

Springs store mechanical energy as tension, helping balance the door’s weight. If they’re not properly chosen or maintained, your garage door could become noisy, slow, or dangerous to operate.

What Are Torsion and Extension Springs?

Torsion springs

Torsion springs sit horizontally above the garage door opening. As the door closes, the spring coils tighter, storing energy. When you open the door, the spring unwinds, releasing that energy to lift the door.

Installed above the opening on a shaft
Typically last 15,000–20,000 cycles
Provide smooth, controlled motion
Suitable for sectional garage doors like the B&D Panelift® or Panelift Icon®

Extension springs

Extension springs stretch and contract along the tracks on each side of the door. They expand when the door closes and contract as it opens.

Installed alongside horizontal tracks
Usually rated for 5,000–10,000 cycles
Less expensive but require more parts (like safety cables)
Common in older roller door systems, but now rarely used in B&D installations

Comparing Performance and Lifespan

Torsion springs are generally more durable and last longer than extension springs. They distribute weight more evenly and operate with fewer moving parts, reducing wear.

Feature	Torsion Springs	Extension Springs
Lifespan	15,000–20,000 cycles	5,000–10,000 cycles
Operation	Smooth and balanced	Can be jerky
Maintenance	Less frequent	More frequent
Safety	Safer with fewer risks	Requires safety cables

Which Is Right for You?

If you’re installing a new garage door or upgrading an old one, torsion and extension springs offer different advantages. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide.

Choose torsion springs if:

You’re installing a sectional garage door like B&D Panelift®
You want a longer-lasting, low-maintenance solution
You prefer quieter, smoother operation
You value enhanced safety for families or shared access

Choose extension springs if:

You’re replacing a legacy system and want a like-for-like swap
You’re on a tight budget and are planning a short-term solution
Your door design isn’t compatible with torsion hardware (rare with B&D products)

In most modern installations, especially those handled by an accredited B&D dealer, torsion springs are the recommended standard due to their reliability and long-term value.

Are B&D Garage Doors Compatible with Both?

Most B&D garage doors are engineered for torsion spring systems. Products like the Panelift® Icon™ and Roll-A-Door® Series 2 are designed to deliver smooth lifting motion, quiet operation, and enhanced control, making torsion springs a natural fit.

In rare cases where extension springs are still in use (usually older roller doors), B&D dealers can assess whether a spring upgrade is possible or recommend a full replacement with a compatible torsion-based setup.

For all new installations, B&D only supplies garage door systems using torsion springs for maximum performance and safety.

FAQs

Can I replace garage door springs myself?
Garage door springs are under high tension and can cause serious injury if handled incorrectly. Always use a licensed installer or contact a B&D Accredited Dealer for safe repairs or replacements.
How do I know which spring my garage door has?
Torsion springs sit horizontally above the door, while extension springs run along the sides of the horizontal tracks. Your B&D installer can confirm the type during a service visit.
What happens if a spring breaks?
Your garage door may become heavy, unbalanced, or won’t open at all. Don’t try to force it. Call a professional to inspect and replace the spring.
Still Not Sure Which Spring You Have?
If you're wondering which is right for you or want a quote on servicing or replacing your current spring system, reach out to a B&D Accredited Dealer near you. We’ll help you choose a solution that’s reliable, long-lasting, and safe for your home.