Ultimate Guide to Garage Door Torsion Springs: Sizes, Replacement & Costs

Garage door torsion springs are critical components that ensure your garage door operates smoothly and safely. If a torsion spring breaks, it can lead to difficulties in opening and closing the door, potentially causing inconvenience and safety hazards. Understanding the right size for your garage door, how to replace them, and the associated costs can help you make informed decisions and avoid expensive repairs. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from measuring torsion springs to replacing them safely.

Understanding Garage Door Torsion Springs

What is a Garage Door Torsion Spring?

Torsion springs store mechanical energy and use torque to assist in lifting the garage door. They are mounted on a metal shaft above the door and work by winding and unwinding to balance the door’s weight.

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Choosing the Right Torsion Spring Size

How to Determine the Correct Torsion Spring Size

  • Measure the length of the old spring when fully unwound.
  • Determine the wire diameter by measuring ten coils and dividing by ten.
  • Identify the inside diameter of the spring, usually stamped on the cone.
  • Note the wind direction: right-wound or left-wound.

Common Torsion Spring Sizes

  • 16×7 Garage Door: Requires a standard spring size based on door weight.
  • 16×8 Garage Door: Uses a slightly stronger spring due to added height.
  • 8×7 Garage Door: Lighter doors need a smaller torsion spring.

How to Replace a Garage Door Torsion Spring Safely

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather Required Tools

  • Winding bars
  • Vice grips
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Safety glasses and gloves

2. Secure the Garage Door

  • Disconnect the opener and clamp the door in place to prevent movement.

3. Release Tension from the Old Spring

  • Insert winding bars into the spring cone and carefully unwind.

4. Remove and Replace the Spring

  • Unbolt the old spring, install the new one, and ensure proper tensioning.

5. Test the Garage Door Balance

  • Slowly lift the door manually to check for smooth operation.

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Adjusting and Maintaining Torsion Springs

How Many Turns Are Needed?

  • Standard garage doors typically require 7-8 full turns to achieve proper tension.

How to Adjust a Torsion Spring

  • Use winding bars to increase or decrease the tension as needed.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Performance

  • Lubricate the springs every six months to reduce wear and noise.
  • Inspect for rust and damage regularly.
  • Replace both springs if one breaks to maintain balance.

Cost of Replacing a Garage Door Torsion Spring

How Much Does It Cost?

  • DIY Replacement: $50 – $150 for the spring and tools.
  • Professional Service: $150 – $350, including labor and parts.

Is It Worth Doing It Yourself?

  • DIY Pros: Saves money, satisfying for experienced DIYers.
  • DIY Cons: Risk of injury, requires specialized tools.

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How to Determine the Right Torsion Spring Size

How to Measure Garage Door Torsion Spring

To measure the correct torsion spring size, you need to determine:

  • Wire Diameter: Measure ten coils and divide by ten for accuracy.
  • Spring Length: Measure the fully unwound spring from end to end.
  • Inside Diameter: Usually stamped on the cone of the spring.

Accurate measurements ensure compatibility with your garage door system.

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What Size Torsion Spring for 16×7 Garage Door?

The required spring size depends on the door’s weight and height. A 16×7 garage door typically requires:

  • A specific wire thickness
  • A length appropriate to the door’s weight
  • A balanced torque rating for smooth operation

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What Size Torsion Spring for 16×8 Garage Door?

A 16×8 garage door is heavier and requires a torsion spring with:

  • A larger wire diameter
  • Increased coil count for higher torque
  • Stronger lifting capacity

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What Size Torsion Spring for 8×7 Garage Door?

Smaller garage doors need a lighter torsion spring with:

  • A lower wire gauge
  • Fewer coils for reduced torque
  • Proper balancing to prevent excessive wear

Replacing and Installing Torsion Springs

How to Replace Torsion Spring on Garage Door

Replacing a torsion spring involves:

  1. Unwinding the Old Spring: Use winding bars for safety.
  2. Removing the Broken Spring: Loosen the set screws and slide off the spring.
  3. Installing the New Spring: Secure it properly and wind it to the required tension.
  4. Testing the Door Balance: Ensure smooth operation before reconnecting the opener.
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How to Install a Single Torsion Spring on a Garage Door

Single torsion springs are common in residential setups. To install:

  1. Secure the Door: Prevent accidental movement.
  2. Position the Spring: Attach it to the center bracket.
  3. Wind the Spring: Use proper tools to apply tension.
  4. Check the Balance: Ensure the door lifts evenly.

How to Adjust Torsion Spring on Garage Door

Adjusting a torsion spring ensures proper door balance:

  • Increase Tension: Add winding turns for better lift.
  • Reduce Tension: Unwind turns if the door is too tight.
  • Check Alignment: Ensure even force distribution.

How to Determine the Right Torsion Spring Size

How to Measure Garage Door Torsion Spring

To measure the correct torsion spring size, you need to determine:

  • Wire Diameter: Measure ten coils and divide by ten for accuracy.
  • Spring Length: Measure the fully unwound spring from end to end.
  • Inside Diameter: Usually stamped on the cone of the spring.

Accurate measurements ensure compatibility with your garage door system.

What Size Torsion Spring for 16×7 Garage Door?

The required spring size depends on the door’s weight and height. A 16×7 garage door typically requires:

  • A specific wire thickness
  • A length appropriate to the door’s weight
  • A balanced torque rating for smooth operation

What Size Torsion Spring for 16×8 Garage Door?

A 16×8 garage door is heavier and requires a torsion spring with:

  • A larger wire diameter
  • Increased coil count for higher torque
  • Stronger lifting capacity

What Size Torsion Spring for 8×7 Garage Door?

Smaller garage doors need a lighter torsion spring with:

  • A lower wire gauge
  • Fewer coils for reduced torque
  • Proper balancing to prevent excessive wear

Replacing and Installing Torsion Springs

How to Replace Torsion Spring on Garage Door

Replacing a torsion spring involves:

  1. Unwinding the Old Spring: Use winding bars for safety.
  2. Removing the Broken Spring: Loosen the set screws and slide off the spring.
  3. Installing the New Spring: Secure it properly and wind it to the required tension.
  4. Testing the Door Balance: Ensure smooth operation before reconnecting the opener.

How to Install a Single Torsion Spring on a Garage Door

Single torsion springs are common in residential setups. To install:

  1. Secure the Door: Prevent accidental movement.
  2. Position the Spring: Attach it to the center bracket.
  3. Wind the Spring: Use proper tools to apply tension.
  4. Check the Balance: Ensure the door lifts evenly.

How to Adjust Torsion Spring on Garage Door

Adjusting a torsion spring ensures proper door balance:

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