Garage Door Springs in Curlew: Types, Cost & When to Replace
2026-08-10 7 min read A2Z Garage Doors
Garage door springs come in two main types: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs wind tightly above your door and are far more durable, lasting 7 to 9 years under normal use. Extension springs run along each side of the door and typically fail sooner, around 5 to 7 years. Most homes in Curlew have one or the other, and knowing which you have matters when budgeting for repair.
Understanding Torsion vs. Extension Springs
Your garage door weighs between 300 and 700 pounds. Springs don't lift that weight directly; they counterbalance it so your opener uses minimal force. That's why a snapped spring makes your door feel impossibly heavy.
Torsion springs are the stronger choice. They're mounted on a rod above the door and store energy by twisting. If one breaks, you'll often see a gap in the coil or hear a loud bang. These springs are safer for automatic openers and last longer because they distribute force more evenly.
Extension springs sit horizontally on both sides of the door track. They stretch and contract as the door moves up and down. They're cheaper to buy but wear out faster because the motion is more repetitive. Many older garages in the Curlew area still run on extension springs, and while they work, they're a prime candidate for garage door maintenance tune up in Curlew to prevent emergencies.
How Much Do Garage Door Springs Cost?
A single torsion spring replacement typically runs $150 to $300, depending on the spring's weight rating and your garage door's size. Extension springs are cheaper per unit, around $75 to $150 each, but you usually need two. Add labor, and you're looking at $300 to $600 total for either type at Curlew Garage Doors.
The wider price range depends on your door's size, the spring's cycle rating (how many open/close cycles it's rated for), and whether both springs need replacement. High cycle springs cost more but outlast budget options by years.
**Need garage door springs in Curlew today?** Call (509) 245-1792. we cover same-day service across the area.
Don't guess at cost. A free estimate is the only honest way to know. We'll assess which spring you need and give you a real quote before touching anything.
Why You Shouldn't Replace Springs Yourself
This is where I need to be direct: replacing garage door springs is dangerous. Springs are under extreme tension. When they break, they release that energy violently. Even if you've watched a YouTube video, a small mistake can cause serious injury.
A snapped spring won't injure you on its own, but the wrong tool or technique during replacement might. We've seen do it yourself attempts go wrong across the region. It's not worth a hospital visit or worse.
Professional technicians at Curlew Garage Doors have the right equipment, training, and insurance. We can schedule a same day service for your snapped spring in most cases. Same day beats the stress of a non functioning garage door, especially if your car is trapped inside or you need secure entry to your home.
Signs Your Springs Are Failing
Listen for these warning signs. A loud bang or crack is the most obvious: one spring just snapped. Your door might rise unevenly, tilting to one side. You might notice your door closing too fast or seeming heavier than usual when you manually open it.
If you see a visible gap or separation in a coil spring, or if both springs are more than 5 years old, plan for replacement soon. Waiting until one fails forces you into an emergency call. Proactive replacement costs less and keeps your routine running smoothly.
Related: check our guide on garage door spring failure in Curlew: what to do when it snaps for immediate next steps if yours breaks today.
The Real Price: Installation vs. Parts
Parts matter less than labor and expertise. A quality spring costs $100 to $250. Installation, safety inspection, and adjustment takes 1 to 2 hours. That's where your cost really comes from, and it's money well spent because a proper install means the spring lasts the full 7 to 9 years.
Cheap springs fail early. Improper installation strains your opener and shortens spring life further. Budget for quality and expect to pay fairly.
For a transparent breakdown of what moves the needle on your repair cost, read our garage door repair cost guide for Curlew.
What to Do Right Now
If your spring just broke, don't force your door. Call us at (509) 245-1792 for same day help. If your springs are 6+ years old, get an estimate before one fails unexpectedly. We'll inspect both springs, tell you which type you have, and give you options.
Curlew Garage Doors handles spring replacement across Curlew and the surrounding area. We stand behind our work and use quality parts rated for long life. Contact us today to schedule your free estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion springs typically last 7 to 9 years with normal use. Extension springs last 5 to 7 years. Lifespan depends on frequency of use, maintenance, and spring quality. A well maintained door uses its springs evenly and extends their life.
Can I replace just one spring if both are old? Not recommended. If one spring is 5+ years old and breaks, the other is likely near failure too. Replacing both at once prevents a second emergency call months later and ensures balanced door movement.
What's the difference between a snapped spring and a loose spring? A snapped spring breaks completely and goes slack. A loose spring still holds tension but has lost some strength, causing uneven door movement or slower opening. Loose springs should be tightened or replaced by a pro before they snap.
Do I need a permit to replace garage door springs? Most residential spring replacements don't need permits. Commercial buildings in Curlew may have different rules. We handle permit details for you if needed.
Why is spring replacement expensive compared to the spring itself? Labor and tools represent most of the cost. Springs are under 400 pounds of tension per side. Proper removal, installation, and safety checks require skill and specialty equipment that protects you and your property.