Garage Door Springs in Haverhill: Torsion vs. Extension (Which Do You Have?)
2026-09-14 7 min read
A lot of homeowners in Haverhill call us with a snapped spring and no clue what type they're dealing with. That confusion costs time and money. Here's the straight answer: most homes run either a torsion spring (wound around a bar above the door) or extension springs (on the sides, extending and contracting). Knowing which you have determines your repair timeline, cost, and whether you can safely DIY anything.
What's a Torsion Spring, and Why Does It Matter?
Torsion springs sit on a horizontal rod mounted above your garage door opening. When the door closes, they twist (torsion) to store energy. When you open the door, that wound energy releases and helps lift the 300-500 pound door. Most modern homes, especially newer builds around Haverhill and the Upper Valley, use torsion springs because they're smoother, safer, and last longer.
The catch? A snapped torsion spring requires immediate professional help. The whole system depends on the spring doing its job. If one fails, the door becomes a dead weight. Trying to manually open or close it risks pinching fingers or dropping the panel on your car.
Extension Springs: The Side Mounted Alternative
Extension springs run along both sides of the door, usually hidden behind tracks. Instead of twisting, they stretch as the door closes and contract as it opens. They're often found in older homes and some budget installations. While they cost less upfront, they have some downsides.
Extension springs wear faster because of the constant stretching motion. When one snaps, the other often follows within months. That's why we recommend replacing both at the same time, even if only one failed. Safety cables run through the middle of each spring precisely because extension springs can snap violently.
How to Identify Which Type You Have
Look above your garage door. Is there a horizontal rod with a coil wound around it? That's torsion. Do you see springs running vertically along the left and right tracks? Those are extension springs. Still not sure? Call us at (802) 316-4354 and describe what you're seeing. It takes 30 seconds on a phone call.
If your door is stuck or won't open smoothly, don't force it. A broken spring means the door isn't balanced. Forcing it strains the opener and risks injury. That's when you need a same-day service visit.
**Need garage door springs in Haverhill today?** Call (802) 316-4354. we cover same-day service across the area.
Why Spring Type Affects Your Repair Cost
A torsion spring replacement typically costs more than extension springs because the installation is more technical. The spring sits under high tension (usually 200-400 pounds of pressure), and improper installation can be dangerous. We always use a torque wrench and safety cables.
Extension springs are cheaper but require replacing both springs for safety. The estimate depends on whether your system is single or double springs, the door weight, and local labor rates. We've written a full breakdown of what affects your garage door repair estimate in Haverhill if you want the details.
When you schedule a free quote, we'll identify your spring type and give you an honest estimate with no surprises.
How Long Do Springs Actually Last?
Both types typically last 7 to 9 years with normal use. Some stretch to 10 if you're lucky and your door gets light use. Temperature swings in Vermont and New Hampshire accelerate wear, especially if you're not doing regular garage door maintenance. Cold snaps make springs brittle. Summer heat flexes them more. Over time, metal fatigues and fails.
We've had customers replace springs proactively before they break, which avoids emergency calls at inconvenient times. You can learn more about how long springs really last in our dedicated post.
What Happens When You Ignore a Bad Spring?
Ignoring spring failure puts stress on your garage door opener. The motor has to work twice as hard to lift an unbalanced door. You'll burn out the opener in months instead of years, turning a $200 spring repair into a $500+ opener replacement. Plus, the door itself can warp or derail.
If you suspect a failing spring (door opens unevenly, makes grinding sounds, feels heavier), have us inspect it. Early detection prevents the cascade of damage. Our spring repair guide covers warning signs in more detail.
Call us today at (802) 316-4354 or get in touch online for a free inspection and estimate. We'll tell you exactly what you have, how long it'll last, and what it costs to fix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I replace a garage door spring myself? A: Torsion springs require special tools and training. Extension springs are slightly safer but still dangerous if not done correctly. We recommend professional installation. Improper installation voids warranties and risks serious injury.
Q: How much does a garage door spring replacement cost in Haverhill? A: Torsion springs run $150 to $400 per spring plus labor. Extension springs cost $100 to $250 per pair plus labor. Total varies by door weight, spring size, and local rates. Get an estimate from Garage Door Haverhill for exact pricing.
Q: What's the difference between torsion and extension springs? A: Torsion springs twist around a rod above the door. Extension springs stretch along the side tracks. Torsion is smoother and safer. Extension is cheaper upfront but wears faster and requires dual replacement for safety.
Q: Why did my spring snap suddenly? A: Springs fail from age, temperature swings, or rust. Metal fatigues over years of opening and closing. Cold weather makes brittle springs snap faster. Regular maintenance catches wear before failure.
Q: Should I replace one spring or both? A: With torsion springs, one broken spring means one replacement. With extension springs, replace both for balance and safety. A single failing extension spring strains the other, shortening its life.