Types of Garage Door Springs – Know What Moves Your Garage Door

There are numerous components that help a garage door operate at the push of a button. Most of these parts are hidden from the human eye. But all of these operate in tandem to open/close the door. And springs are one such vital component in the garage door working mechanism. Although they have longer life compared to other parts, they also tend to develop problems after some time. Extreme weather, excessive use and miscellaneous other factors can be held responsible for this. Let us understand the type of springs before you undertake any ‘Do-It-Yourself’ repair project.

Via Wikipedia

Introduction of Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs perform the primary function of lifting up and lowering the door. Basically, these are employed to counter balance the weight of the door. For instance, to open a door weighing 150 pounds, an equivalent rebounding force is required. Weight is counterbalanced by the equivalent force sourced from the springs.

The torque (force that balances the door weight) in the spring poses danger to the user. If not handled carefully, it can cause fatal injury. Many accidents and deaths are reported every year due to manhandling of the door springs. By understanding the working mechanism, homeowners can better approach repair/replacement projects.

Types of springs

1. Torsion

2. Extension

Torsion models can be further classified into commercial and residential torsion springs, Torque-Master, EZ-set torsion springs, and steel rolling. On the other hand, extension family can also be further classified into two type’s namely one-piece extension and sectional garage door springs.

Let us discuss these types in detail:

Residential Torsion Type

Generally, two springs are used in conjunction for heavy residential doors. Here, the spring is attached to the anchor bracket (located in the shaft center). In case, there are two springs, they are both ideally located at the same anchor bracket fixed in the midpoint of the door.

EZ Set Type

The construction is similar to the residential type with minor differences. These are installed on the winders located at the shaft end. Generally, one or two springs are installed on the shaft. Lighter doors can have a single torsion setup. But a coupler can be used in the middle to connect the two shafts. Double-car garages have two springs with additional center support bracket.

Torque Master

This model offers improved safety features. It has additional springs located on the core of the shaft. The shaft cross-section is non-circular with one end extending outwards. A stationary cone keeps them both fastened to the shaft. In earlier models, there was a winding cone located on the opposite side of the shaft end. It passed through the cable drum and reached out to the other end. A special winder houses this winding cone and allows them to operate freely via an electric drill.

Steel Rolling

Torsion spring in steel doors is housed inside a barrel. For safety reasons, the barrel is sealed from both sides. Head plates are located on both the sides of the barrel. Shaft pieces pass through a bearing to enter the barrel. Inside, shaft pieces are supported by idle brackets. Torsion springs are supported by the shafts which in turn are connected to the winding unit. This unit rotates and delivers the required operating torque.

One-Piece Extension Type

Each side of the door has one or two springs. They are attached perpendicular to the door with a door jamb bracket. One end is attached to the lever arm. During the door operation, this lever arm is stretched to open/close the door.

Springs pose high risk of fatal injuries. It is advised that homeowners call professionals for extensive door repair and replacement of parts. Trained technicians have all the tools and knowledge required to handle garage door spring replacement.