When your garage door suddenly won’t open or close properly, there’s a good chance the tension spring is to blame. These tightly wound springs are essential for counterbalancing the weight of the garage door. But like any mechanical part, they wear out over time. Understanding the tension spring garage door replacement cost can help homeowners plan ahead and avoid being caught off guard by repair bills.
In this guide, we’ll cover what tension springs do, signs they need replacing, average replacement costs, factors that influence the price, and whether you should DIY or call in the pros.
A tension spring, often confused with torsion springs, is one of the two primary types of springs used in garage door systems. Tension springs (also known as extension springs) expand and contract helping in opening and closing the door. They're typically mounted on the sides of the garage door track, unlike torsion springs that sit above the door.
Tension springs store energy by stretching when the door closes and releasing that energy to help lift the door when it opens.
Recognizing the symptoms of a failing tension spring early can save you from a total garage door breakdown—or worse, injury. Here’s what to look for:
•The door won’t open or feels extremely heavy
•The garage door slams shut or closes too fast
•Uneven door movement or sagging on one side
•Loud snapping or popping noises
•Visible wear or breakage in the spring
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to consider a replacement.
National Average Cost: $150–$300
The total cost for replacing garage door tension springs typically falls within $150 to $300, depending on various factors. This price usually includes parts and professional labor.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
|
Item |
Estimated Cost |
|
Replacement tension springs |
$30 – $70 per spring |
|
Labor (1–2 hours) |
$100 – $200 |
|
Service call fee (sometimes included in labor) |
$50 – $100 |
While this article focuses on tension (extension) springs, keep in mind that torsion springs are often more expensive and labor-intensive to replace. If your system uses multiple springs or a combination, costs can rise.
Heavier doors (like double-car or insulated doors) require stronger or paired springs, which cost more.
Some systems have two tension springs—one on each side. If one breaks, it’s generally advisable to replace both at once for balanced operation.
Labor costs vary based on your location. Urban or high-cost-of-living areas often charge more for service calls and labor time.
If you need immediate help—especially on weekends or evenings—you may pay an additional $50–$100 for emergency service.
Cost savings: You might spend only $40–$70 if you do it yourself.
Skill required: Moderate mechanical skills and the right tools.
Risk: Tension springs are in a lot of pressure. Improper handling may result in injuries or fatal accidents.
Cost: Around $150–$300 total.
Safety: Technicians are trained to handle spring tension safely.
Warranty: Most pros offer parts and labor warranties.
Bottom line: Unless you're experienced with garage door systems, hiring a professional is the safer, more reliable option.
Technically yes—but it’s not recommended.
Garage door springs wear at the same rate. Replacing just one creates an imbalance that can:
•Cause uneven movement
•Strain your opener
•Shorten the life of the new spring
Pro tip: Always replace springs in pairs, even if only one has broken.
Tension springs typically last for 7,000 to 10,000 cycles—a cycle being one open and one close. For most families, this translates to about 7–10 years of use.
To extend the life of your springs:
•Avoid overusing your garage door
•Keep the springs lubricated
•Schedule annual maintenance checks
Sometimes, yes. Here are a few extra charges you might encounter:
Cable or bracket replacement: $20–$40 more if those parts are also worn
Roller or track repair: If other components were damaged during the spring failure
Service call minimums: Some companies have flat-rate service charges regardless of time spent
Never agree to any work until you have a written estimate.
•Get multiple quotes from local service providers.
•Ask about warranties—some offer 3–5 years on parts and labor.
•Avoid emergency service unless absolutely necessary.
•Look for seasonal promotions or discounts online.
•Consider a maintenance plan to catch issues before they become costly repairs.
Getting to learn about the tension spring garage door replacement cost will help you make the right decisions when your garage door begins to play up. Although the prices are between $150 and $300, the costs will depend on your door type, spring specifications, labor, as well as the location.
Most homeowners are better off leaving this job to the pros. The safety risks of DIY spring replacement outweigh the potential savings—especially when you consider the long-term performance and warranty that a trained technician can provide.
Q: Can I open my garage door if the tension spring is broken?
A: You shouldn’t. Forcing it open can damage the door or opener and is dangerous. Call a professional for inspection.
Q: How often should tension springs be replaced?
A: On average every 7–10 years or 7,000–10,000 cycles, depending on usage.
Q: Is it normal for springs to break suddenly?
A: Yes, especially if they’ve reached the end of their cycle life or haven’t been maintained.
