The Difference Between Torsion and Extension Springs: Experts in Tampa FL
In the humid, salty air of Tampa, your garage door springs are under constant attack from corrosion and metal fatigue. Because these springs do the heavy lifting for your door, choosing the right type—and maintaining them properly—is essential for the safety and longevity of your system.
Door Master Clinic provides expert spring solutions across Tampa. Understanding the mechanical differences between torsion and extension springs will help you make the best investment for your home.
1. Torsion Springs: The Modern Standard
Torsion springs are mounted on a metal shaft directly above the garage door opening. They operate by twisting (torsion) to store and release energy.
- How They Work: As the door closes, the springs wind up, storing torque. When you open the door, they unwind, transferring that force to cables that lift the door smoothly.
- Lifespan: Typically rated for 15,000 to 20,000 cycles, meaning they often last twice as long as extension springs.
- Safety: Because they are slide-mounted on a shaft, if a torsion spring snaps, it stays on the bar rather than flying across the garage.
- Performance:
They provide a much smoother, more balanced movement, which reduces the strain on your garage door opener.
2. Extension Springs: The Traditional Budget Option
Extension springs are located on either side of the horizontal door tracks. They work by stretching and contracting like a heavy-duty rubber band.
- How They Work: They expand as the door closes and contract to pull the door back up.
- Lifespan: Generally rated for 5,000 to 10,000 cycles, making them more prone to failure in high-use households.
- Safety Risk: These springs are under intense tension and are exposed. If they break without a safety cable, they can become dangerous projectiles, causing severe damage or injury.
- Performance: Extension springs can cause the door to move in a "jerky" or lopsided fashion if the tension isn't perfectly identical on both sides.
Why Climate Matters in Tampa
Tampa’s high humidity and salt air act as a catalyst for rust. At Door Master Clinic, we recommend galvanized or powder-coated torsion springs for our local customers.
- Galvanization adds a protective zinc layer that prevents the "pitting" caused by salt air.
- Coated Springs are even more durable, often extending the cycle life by preventing the friction that occurs when dry coils rub together.
When to Call the Experts
Regardless of the type you have, you should call a professional if you notice:
- A loud "bang" from the garage.
- The door only opens 2–6 inches before stopping.
- A visible gap in the coils of the spring.
- The door appears crooked or feels extremely heavy to lift manually.
Make a Safer, Longer-Lasting Spring Investment
An off-track garage door is a high-priority repair that should never be ignored. At Door Master Clinic, we have over 11 years of experience helping Palm Coast residents stay safe and keep their homes secure. We respond quickly to emergency calls and ensure your door is operating smoothly and safely.
Contact Door Master Clinic today at [Insert Phone Number] or visit our website to schedule your professional off-track garage door repair in Palm Coast FL.
