There are a few components that play a major role in the operations of any garage door, and springs are some of the most notable to be aware of here. You have a number of options when it comes to the type of springs used in your garage door setup, and knowing the basics, pros and cons of each can be quite valuable here.
At Price’s Guaranteed Doors, we’re happy to offer both residential and commercial garage door services to clients around Park City, Bountiful, Eagle Mountain and numerous other parts of Utah. Spring selection is one of numerous areas we’ll assist you with, including helping you understand how certain springs work and what to know about them. Here are some basics on what springs do, plus the most common types out there and their general qualities.
Vital Role of Garage Door Springs
Before we get into the specific types of springs, it’s important to understand why they are needed in the first place. Spring systems often use tension to help lift and lower your door, with the specific type you choose dictating the amount of tension used. This is what allows for a greater level of control over how easily your garage door opens and closes.
As your door opens, the springs are stretched and then contracted as it closes. The tension needed here is what helps keep your door securely in place when opened fully. Without this, you may have difficulty opening or closing the door at all, which can pose a number of safety risks.
Our next several sections will look at spring types to consider.
Torsion Springs
The most common form of spring for residential garage doors is the torsion spring. This type is mounted above the door, often on a metal shaft that runs the length of the garage door. It’s tension-loaded and wound around this shaft, with each turn corresponding to an increment in tension.
Torsion springs offer several advantages compared to other types, especially in terms of how long they last and how strong they are. Many of these springs can be expected to last between 10,000 and 20,000 cycles, with each cycle equating to one full open and close operation. They also tend to require very little maintenance over their lifespan.
Furthermore, torsion springs can be adjusted in terms of their total tension. That means that even if you replace your door with a heavier or lighter option, you can easily adjust the tension to make sure it opens and closes properly.
Extension Springs
If you’re looking for an option that attaches to the sides of the garage door rather than the top, then extension springs may be the way to go. This type of spring is connected to pulleys and cables which in turn connect to the door itself. As with torsion springs, tension here helps lift and lower it properly when opened and closed.
Extension springs are generally a bit more affordable than torsion models, making them a popular choice. They also tend to be slightly easier to install, though they do require more maintenance in terms of lubrication and tensioning adjustments over time as well.
Galvanized Springs
While certainly usable in residential settings, one type of garage door spring that’s typically found more often in commercial settings is the galvanized spring. This type, made from quality steel and then coated with zinc to resist corrosion, offer an especially long lifespan with many expected to last as long as 30,000 cycles before needing to be replaced.
Galvanized springs are typically a bit pricier compared to non-galvanized models, but they do tend to come with more comprehensive warranties from the manufacturer. They also require less maintenance over time, and are ideal for areas with high element exposure or high humidity levels.
Oil-Tempered Springs
Another steel-based option that’s known for strength and durability is the oil-tempered spring. This option, which has been heat-treated and then coated with special oils to resist corrosion, can last up to 25,000 cycles before needing replacement.
Oil tempered springs offer even more resistance against elements than do galvanized models, and tend to require very little maintenance over their lifespan. They are also fairly affordable, making them a popular choice for many residential garage door setups.
Oil-tempered springs tend to be best for garages that get lots of use. The oil coating helps resist the elements, so it’s ideal for areas with a lot of exposure to rain, snow and sun. They also tend to be very quiet during operation, which can be beneficial in quieter residential settings.
Knowing all this information about the different types of springs available can help you make an informed decision when selecting what best works for your needs. Be sure to research each type thoroughly and remember the pros and cons for each before making any decisions.
In addition, you should also consider factors like ease of installation, maintenance needs, and lifespan when comparing different spring types. With these components in mind, you can easily pick the perfect solution that will meet your budget and expectations.
At Price’s Guaranteed Doors, we can help you pick the right springs for your garage door setup and have them professionally installed, so you can be sure of a long-lasting setup that will function well for years to come. Contact us today to get started on any garage door, entry door or related project in Park City, Bountiful, Eagle Mountain or any other part of Utah.