2026-09-12 7 min read
The two main types of garage door springs are torsion and extension, and knowing which one you have is the first step to understanding repair costs and safety risks. Torsion springs sit above your door and twist to lift the weight. Extension springs run along the sides and stretch. Most homes in Milliken use torsion, but identifying yours matters before calling a technician.
Torsion springs are the gold standard in garage door engineering. They're mounted horizontally above the center of your door on a metal shaft. When you press the opener button, the spring twists (torsion is the engineering term for rotational force) and unwinds, transferring energy to lift your 300 to 400 pound door with smooth, controlled motion. See our guide on garage door springs repair cost in milliken: what you.
The beauty of torsion is balance. A properly wound torsion spring does most of the heavy lifting, so your opener motor doesn't strain. That's why they last longer. A quality torsion spring typically lasts 7 to 9 years with normal use, which translates to roughly 10,000 to 15,000 cycles. They're more expensive upfront (usually $150 to $250 per spring before labor), but they're worth every penny for durability and safety.
Torsion springs need a brake drum and cable system to function safely. If a snapped spring occurs, the brake holds the door in place and prevents it from crashing down. This is critical. Read about emergency garage door service in milliken: when to call and what it costs.
Extension springs are older technology, still found on some homes across northern Colorado. These springs run along the top corners of your door frame, one on each side. When the door opens, the springs extend (stretch), and when it closes, they contract, pulling the door down.
Extension springs are cheaper to install initially. But here's the trade off: they wear faster. Most extension springs last 4 to 7 years. They're also less stable because each side operates independently. If one snaps, the door can tilt or jam. That's a safety hazard and a repair headache.
Extension springs also require safety cables that run through them. If a cable snaps or a spring breaks, the cable keeps the spring from flying across your garage at dangerous speeds. Still, extension springs carry more risk than torsion.
**Need garage door springs in Milliken today?** Call (720) 408-6434. we cover same-day service across the area.
Before you call for a repair estimate, knowing your spring type helps you understand the technician's recommendations and costs. If you have a snapped spring, the repair bill depends on whether it's torsion or extension, plus labor time.
Identifying your springs is simple. Look above your garage door from inside the garage. Do you see a horizontal shaft with a spring wound around it? That's torsion. Do you see springs running along the left and right sides of the door frame? That's extension.
If you're unsure, don't guess. A professional can identify it in seconds and give you an accurate estimate. We've covered the cost side in detail, so if pricing is your concern, read our full breakdown of garage door springs repair cost in Milliken).
Springs don't always fail dramatically. Sometimes you'll notice your door opening slower or jerking as it rises. That's a sign the spring is weakening. Other times, you hear a loud bang (the snapped spring) and the door won't budge.
The safest approach is preventive maintenance. If your springs are 7+ years old, have a technician inspect them during your annual tune-up. Catching wear before a snapped spring occurs saves you emergency service fees and keeps your family safe. We recommend learning when to replace springs before failure) so you can plan ahead.
Never attempt to replace springs yourself. The tension in these springs is extreme and can cause serious injury. When you need a replacement, schedule a free estimate with our team) to get same-day or next-day service.
At Garage Door Company Milliken, we handle torsion and extension replacements with the same attention to detail. We inspect the entire system, replace both springs at once (even if only one has failed), test the door balance, and ensure your opener isn't overworking. This thorough approach prevents a second spring from failing weeks later.
We stock both spring types and can often complete replacements the same day you call. Quality springs from trusted manufacturers, plus proper installation, mean your door will operate smoothly for years.
Don't wait for a spring to fail. If your door is struggling or you're unsure about your spring age, reach out today. Call (720) 408-6434 or contact us for a free estimate). We serve Milliken and the surrounding communities, and we're ready to get your door working safely again.
How much does it cost to replace garage door springs in Milliken? Torsion spring replacement typically costs $300 to $500 per spring including labor. Extension springs run $200 to $400. Prices depend on spring quality and whether both sides need replacement. Get a free estimate for your specific door.
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion springs last 7 to 9 years with regular use. Extension springs last 4 to 7 years. Lifespan depends on door weight, frequency of use, and maintenance. Annual inspections help catch wear early.
Can I replace just one spring? We recommend replacing both springs at the same time, even if only one is broken. Springs wear as a pair, and replacing one stresses the other. This prevents a second failure shortly after repair.
What happens if a garage door spring snaps? A snapped torsion spring triggers the brake, holding the door safely in place. A snapped extension spring can cause the door to tilt or jam. Either way, the door won't operate normally and needs professional repair.
Are extension springs safer than torsion? No. Torsion springs are safer and more reliable. They distribute load evenly and include a brake system. Extension springs wear faster and carry higher risk if they fail, though safety cables help contain the damage.