Understanding the Different Types Single of Garage Door Torsion Springs and Benefits of a Two Spring System

Torsion springs are a mainstay of overhead garage doors. Most homeowners have at least a passing knowledge of what they are and what they do. They know that the torsion spring sits above the door parallel to it and lifts and lowers the door by uncoiling and coiling respectively. They also know that torsion springs store massive amounts of energy when coiled and thus are extremely dangerous to work with and around. But what most homeowners aren’t aware of is that there are two main types of torsion springs, oil tempered and zinc galvanized, and that both have their advantages and disadvantages. In this post we’ll compare the different types of garage springs.

Once you are familiar with the types of springs, we can decide whether or not you want a single spring system of a two-spring system

Many garage doors use extension springs instead of torsion springs. Click the 'Torsion springs' link above to see the difference.

Common Torsion Spring Types

Torsion springs are a crucial component of garage doors, providing the necessary tension to open and close them smoothly. While there are various types of torsion springs available, two of the most common options are oil tempered springs and zinc galvanized torsion springs. Each type has its own strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable for different applications based on factors like durability, maintenance, and aesthetics.

Oil Tempered Springs

Oil tempered torsion springs are made from high-carbon steel and undergo a heat-treating process where they are heated and then quenched in oil. This process enhances their strength and durability, allowing them to handle heavy loads and frequent use. Typically, oil tempered springs have a lifespan of around 10,000 cycles, equating to about 7 to 10 years of service under normal conditions.

One of the biggest advantages of oil tempered springs is that they require little to no adjustment over time, making them a low-maintenance option. They are also more affordable compared to zinc galvanized springs, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking for cost-effective solutions. However, they are prone to rust and have a dark, industrial appearance that some homeowners may find unattractive.

Zinc Galvanized Torsion Springs

Zinc galvanized torsion springs are coated with a layer of zinc, which provides enhanced corrosion resistance. This makes them an excellent choice for homes in humid environments, coastal regions, or areas prone to moisture. Their shiny, clean appearance also makes them more visually appealing compared to oil tempered springs.

Unlike oil tempered springs, zinc galvanized springs do not have an oily residue, making them cleaner to handle during installation and maintenance. However, they tend to lose tension more quickly, requiring periodic adjustments to keep the garage door balanced. Additionally, they can be noisier when in operation, producing a high-pitched squealing sound over time.

Torsion Spring Types Compared

Understanding the differences between these torsion spring types can help homeowners make an informed decision when selecting the best option for their garage doors. Below, we compare key characteristics of oil tempered and zinc galvanized torsion springs to provide a clearer perspective.

Ultimately, the choice between oil tempered and zinc galvanized torsion springs depends on individual preferences and environmental factors. Homeowners prioritizing durability and low maintenance may prefer oil tempered springs, while those looking for rust resistance and a cleaner aesthetic may opt for zinc galvanized springs. Understanding these key differences can help ensure that the selected spring type aligns with the specific needs of the garage door system.

The Advantages of a Two Spring System

When installing garage doors many home builders will use only a single spring. This is done for two reasons. 1) To save money and 2) because the builder correctly assumes that most of the time the new homeowner won’t think to check the number of springs on the overhead door. The builder’s assumption that most people won’t check is a fairly safe one because as any garage door service in Broomfield will tell you many homeowners (and would be homeowners) believe the number of springs on a garage door is pretty meaningless. After all, the thinking goes, it’s the “opener” that opens the door. Right?

The Truth About Garage Door Openers and Why You Need Springs

The opener in fact only supplies the initial push or pull and then acts as a regulator to make sure the movement of the door is smooth and safe. It’s actually the torsion or extension springs that do the heavy lifting. So whether your garage door has one or two springs will often times make a difference in how dependable your door is, how often it will need repair and how long it will last. That said let’s look at some of the advantages of having a two spring system on your garage door.

Benefits of a Two-Spring Garage Door System

Now that we have a better appreciation for the important role the springs play in the operation of the garage door let’s look at the two spring garage door system. The dual spring system actually has a number of advantages over most single spring systems for the following reasons:

• Preserves Door Components — A single spring system places excessive strain on components like bearing plates, side drums, rollers, and tracks, leading to quicker wear and tear. A two-spring system distributes tension evenly, reducing twisting pressure and prolonging the life of these components.
• Provides a Backup if a Spring Breaks — With a single torsion or extension spring, a failure can cause the door’s full weight to transfer to the motor, potentially resulting in damage and the door crashing down. A two-spring system ensures that if one spring snaps, the remaining spring absorbs the load, preventing sudden drops.
• Extends Spring Life — Spring lifespan is measured in cycles, with each open and close counting as one. A single spring bears the door’s full weight each time, wearing out faster. A two-spring system shares the load, effectively doubling each spring’s lifespan.
• Assists in Manual Operation — If one extension spring breaks, the other keeps the door from collapsing entirely. While the door may become unbalanced, disengaging the motor and manually lifting the door becomes more manageable. This can be crucial in emergency situations when waiting for a professional repair.

There can be little doubt that a two spring garage door system is a safer, longer lasting and smoother running system than one with a single spring. If you need service on your garage door springs in Northglenn or need garage door service in Broomfield of any type call A Better Garage Door.