Should I Install Two Springs For My Garage Door If It Has Only One?
While having two springs can provide additional benefits, it may not be necessary for all garage doors. Garage door springs are crucial components that balance the weight of your door, making it easy to open and close. This comprehensive guide will help you understand whether you need one or two springs for your garage door, covering key factors to consider and expert recommendations.
Is it necessary to have two garage door springs?
Yes and no, Respectively.
Although it is not required to have two springs installed on your garage door, having two springs can provide you with more life cycles.
It is perfectly fine to replace only one torsion spring if your garage door was originally installed with one.
If your garage door has two springs, it is best to have both of them replaced when one breaks.
If you only replace one spring in a two-spring setup, the second spring will most likely break within six months.
You can save money on Garage Door Spring repair costs by replacing both springs at the same time.
Types of Garage Door Springs
There are two main types of garage door springs:
- Torsion Springs: Mounted above the garage door opening, these springs use torque to lift the door.
- Extension Springs: Located above the horizontal tracks on either side of the door, these springs stretch and contract to move the door.
Single vs. Double Spring Systems
Benefits of Double Springs
- Extended Cycle Life: Two springs distribute the door’s weight, reducing wear on each spring.
- Increased Safety: If one spring breaks, the other can still support the door temporarily.
- Easier Manual Operation: In case of spring failure, the functioning spring assists in manual lifting.
- Long-term Cost-Effectiveness: Despite higher initial costs, double springs typically require less frequent replacement.
When to Choose Single Springs
Single spring systems may be sufficient for:
- Lighter garage doors (under 200 lbs)
- Doors with less frequent use (less than 3-4 cycles per day)
- Budget constraints where immediate costs are a primary concern
When to Opt for Double Springs
Consider double springs for:
- Heavier doors (over 200 lbs)
- High-usage doors (more than 4-5 cycles per day)
- Enhanced safety and reliability
- Long-term cost savings
Spring Material Comparison
| Material | Lifespan | Rust Resistance | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galvanized Steel | 7-9 years | High | $$ |
| Oil-Tempered Wire | 5-7 years | Moderate | $ |
Safety Considerations
Warning: Garage door spring replacement can be extremely dangerous due to high tension. Always consult a certified professional for spring-related work.
Decision-Making Guide
To determine if you need one or two springs:
- Measure door weight: Use a bathroom scale for each section.
- Calculate daily usage: Count average daily open/close cycles.
- Consider budget: Factor in long-term savings vs. upfront costs.
- Consult a professional: Get an expert opinion for your specific situation.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
While some maintenance tasks can be DIY, spring replacement should always be done by certified technicians due to safety risks and the need for precise calculations.
DIY-Safe Tasks:
- Visual inspection of springs
- Lubricating moving parts
- Tightening hardware
Professional-Only Tasks:
- Spring replacement or adjustment
- Cable replacement
- Drum or bearing replacement
Garage Door Spring Service
Garage Door Spring Replacement
Single Garage Door Spring
Double Garage Spring
Torsion Spring Replacement Cost
Extension Spring Replacement Cost
Double Springs
When Should You choose 1 or 2 Garage Door Springs?
Extended Cycle Life
Torsion springs support the weight of your garage door as it opens and closes.
The stress of this weight can cause the spring to weaken and eventually break over time. When this occurs, your garage door will not function properly.
The cycle life of your garage door will increase if you have two torsion springs.
Because the weight of the door is distributed between two springs, each spring does not have to work as hard.
As a result, your garage door’s springs will last longer and require fewer repairs.
Increased Safety
It is possible for a dangerous predicament to arise in the event that a torsion spring breaks.
The spring could break, which could result in damage to your property or injury to another person.
When two torsion springs are used, the likelihood of something like this occurring is drastically cut down.
Even in the event that one of the springs breaks, the other spring will continue to support the weight of the door until the broken spring is replaced.
Lifting Made Easier
In the event that you only have one torsion spring and it snaps, it may be challenging for you to lift your garage door.
If you want to avoid damaging the door or injuring yourself while attempting to lift it, it is recommended that you seek the assistance of a trained professional.
However, if there are two torsion springs installed, the one that is not broken will be able to assist in lifting the door, which will make it much simpler for you and anyone else who needs to operate the door.
Cost-Effective
Even though the cost of replacing two torsion springs is going to be higher than the cost of replacing just one, in the long run, this will be the more cost-effective option due to the longer cycle life and improved safety.
With two springs, you won’t have to replace them nearly as frequently, which means you’ll save money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
When Should You Use Two Springs?
There are a few things to consider before switching from a single spring to a two-spring setup.
- Heavier doors (over 200 lbs)
- High-usage doors (more than 4-5 cycles per day)
- Enhanced safety and reliability
- Long-term cost savings
Higher Cost
First and foremost, consider the cost of upgrading.
Many repair shops will try to upsell you and install a two-spring system when you only have one.
Hiring a reputable garage door company ensures that the technician is honest and upfront with you.
The cost of upgrading from a single spring to a two-spring setup is typically 30-40% higher.
IMPORTANT
Beneficial For Heavier Doors
Second, think about the weight of your garage door.
Two springs will be more beneficial to heavier doors, while two springs may not be necessary for lighter doors.
Furthermore, having two springs can help to extend the life of your garage door system if you use it frequently.
IMPORTANT
Extension Springs
When installing extension springs for your garage door, keep in mind that they usually come in pairs.
This means that if you have extension springs above the tracks, you should replace both of them at the same time.
This ensures that the springs exert equal pressure as your door moves up and down.
If you intend to buy garage door springs online, make certain that you are getting the correct size for your garage door.
90-pound extension springs are required for a standard non-insulated garage door measuring 8 by 7 feet.
Meanwhile, 130-pound extension springs are required for a standard four-panel wooden door that is about 2 inches thick.
When replacing extension springs, make sure the garage door is in the up position and clamp one of the rollers with a pair of vise grips to keep the door secure and from falling.
Pull the red rope on the garage door opener to detach it from the door, preventing any accidental garage door operation while you’re working on it.
Conclusion
Choosing between single and double spring systems depends on your door’s weight, usage frequency, and budget. While double springs offer enhanced safety and longevity, they may not be necessary for all situations. Always prioritize safety and consult with certified professionals for spring-related work.
For more information, consult resources from the International Door Association (IDA) or the Door & Access Systems Manufacturers Association (DASMA).
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