2026-06-27 7 min read
A customer called last Tuesday with a door that wouldn't open. I knew before I arrived what the problem was: a snapped torsion spring. After 15 years on service calls across Everett and the surrounding area, I can tell you that garage door springs are the hardest working part of your system and the first thing to fail. The good news is understanding what you have, why it breaks, and what it costs to fix takes about five minutes.
Your garage door weighs between 300 and 400 pounds. Without springs, you'd never lift it by hand. These metal coils store and release energy every time the door opens or closes. There are two main types.
Torsion springs sit above the door on a horizontal rod. They twist and unwind to balance the weight. Most modern doors in Everett homes use these because they're safer and last longer (typically 7 to 9 years with normal use). Extension springs run along the sides of the door and stretch like a rubber band. They're cheaper upfront but wear out faster, usually within 5 to 7 years.
When a spring fails, the door becomes extremely heavy. Your opener may strain and stop working. Worse, a snapped spring can drop the door suddenly, which is dangerous. This is not a DIY repair. The tension is real, the risk of injury is real, and improper installation voids your warranty.
Listen for unusual noise when opening or closing. A loud bang or crack? That's often a spring breaking under load. If your door moves slowly, struggles, or feels unbalanced, springs are usually the culprit. You might also notice the door won't stay open or closes on its own, which signals loss of spring tension.
Don't ignore these warnings. A weakened spring puts extra stress on your garage door opener. You could end up replacing the opener too, which is a much larger expense. If you spot any of these red flags, read about five warning signs your garage door needs professional repair for a more complete checklist.
**Need garage door springs in Everett today?** Call 857-855-4796. we cover same-day service across the area.
Spring replacement cost depends on the type and your door's weight. Torsion springs typically run $150 to $300 per spring, including labor. Extension springs are cheaper, around $100 to $200 each. Most residential doors need either one torsion spring or two extension springs.
Here's the catch: if one spring fails, the other is usually close behind. I always recommend replacing both at the same time. It costs a bit more upfront but saves you a second service call in six months. For a detailed breakdown of what you'll actually pay, check out our guide to garage door cost and pricing in Everett.
Labor adds $100 to $200 to the total, depending on complexity. If your door is older or custom sized, expect the higher end. We always provide a free estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises.
Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the door opening on a sturdy metal rod. They're under tremendous tension (up to 250 pounds per coil on some doors), so they're dangerous to adjust or replace without proper tools.
Extension springs hang vertically on each side of the door and have safety cables running through them. If an extension spring snaps, the cable keeps it from falling and damaging your car or property. That said, both types require professional installation.
If you're unsure which type you have, visit our services page for spring replacement options or call us at 857-855-4796. We'll confirm your setup and give you a same-day estimate if needed.
Springs don't last forever. Even with minimal use, they fatigue over time. In Everett, where winters are brutal and temperature swings stress metal, springs often wear out faster than the national average. If your door is 7 to 9 years old and you haven't replaced the springs, have them inspected.
One more thing: if you've had an emergency repair recently, springs might be next. Many homeowners face a chain reaction of failures. Learn more about emergency garage door repair costs in Everett to understand the full scope of potential expenses.
Spring failure isn't something to put off. A broken spring leaves you without garage access and puts stress on your opener. The sooner you address it, the less additional damage occurs.
Contact Garage Door Everett for a free inspection and estimate. We'll tell you exactly what you need, what it costs, and when we can fix it. Many calls we handle get same-day service, so your garage door is back in action within hours, not days.
Schedule a free quote today or call 857-855-4796. We're standing by.
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion springs typically last 7 to 9 years with regular use. Extension springs wear out faster, usually within 5 to 7 years. Harsh winters in Massachusetts can shorten lifespan. Proper maintenance and occasional lubrication help extend their life.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself? No. Spring replacement requires specialized tools and safety equipment. Springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury or death if mishandled. Always hire a licensed professional to avoid risk and ensure proper installation.
What's the difference between a snapped spring and a stretched spring? A snapped spring breaks completely and stops working immediately. A stretched spring loses tension gradually, making the door heavier and harder to open. Both need replacement, but a snapped spring is more urgent since the door becomes suddenly immobile.
Why do springs fail in winter? Cold temperatures make metal brittle and less flexible. Salt and moisture from winter weather cause corrosion. Temperature swings force springs to expand and contract, accelerating wear. Everett winters are particularly tough on garage door systems.
Should I replace both springs even if only one broke? Yes. If one spring has failed, the other is near the end of its life. Replacing both now saves you a second service call within months and ensures balanced door operation and even weight distribution.