2026-07-29 7 min read A2Z Garage Doors
Garage door springs come in two main types: torsion and extension. Torsion springs sit above your door and twist to lift it. Extension springs run along the sides and stretch. Most homes in Driftwood use torsion because they're safer and last longer, typically 7 to 9 years with proper maintenance.
Torsion springs are the heavier hitter. They're mounted horizontally above your garage door opening and work by winding and unwinding. The torque (rotational force) they generate is what actually lifts your 300 to 400 pound door. One torsion spring can often handle the whole load, though dual-spring setups exist for extra-heavy doors.
Extension springs do the opposite. They're mounted on each side of the door track and stretch as the door closes. When you open the door, they contract and help pull it up. They're cheaper upfront but wear out faster because they're under constant tension. Most contractors recommend replacing both extension springs at the same time, even if only one has snapped. That's because the second one isn't far behind.
The safety difference matters. A broken torsion spring drops your door hard but contained. A snapped extension spring can whip across your garage like a whip. That's why we always advise calling a pro instead of DIY repairs. This isn't the place to save a few bucks.
Garage door springs fail from friction, rust, and normal wear. The Hill Country climate in Driftwood means humidity, temperature swings, and occasional rust. Springs cycle thousands of times. A typical spring opens and closes your door 10,000 to 20,000 times before giving out. That's why a snapped spring isn't random. It's predictable.
Warning signs include a loud bang or crack when opening the door, a door that won't open all the way, or a door that drops faster than normal. If you notice your door sagging or hanging crooked, don't force it. A broken spring can't support the weight, and you risk injuring yourself or damaging the opener.
**Need garage door springs in Driftwood today?** Call (830) 445-2562. we cover same-day service across the area.
Regular maintenance extends spring life. Lubricate your springs twice a year with garage door spray (not WD-40). Keep tracks clean. Have an annual inspection. These simple steps can add 2 to 3 years to your spring's lifespan.
Spring replacement cost in Driftwood ranges from $150 to $400 per spring, depending on type and quality. Torsion springs run higher (around $200 to $350 each) because they're more durable. Extension springs are cheaper (around $150 to $250 each) but need replacing more often.
Labor is usually $100 to $200 per service call. A reputable company won't nickel and dime you. At Garage Door Driftwood, we provide a detailed estimate before touching anything. No surprises. We've seen too many homeowners get shocked by hidden costs elsewhere. Our pricing is transparent because that's how we operate.
If both springs have failed, expect to replace them together. Your total cost will likely fall between $400 and $700 all in. That includes parts, labor, and any minor adjustments to the door balance. Some companies bundle a spring replacement with a full tune-up, which can save you money long-term.
For a detailed breakdown of what affects your final cost, check our guide on garage door springs when to replace and what it costs. It covers the financial side of maintenance vs. replacement decisions.
If one torsion spring has snapped, replace it. Replacement is the only real fix. A repair isn't possible because the spring is wound under extreme tension. Same logic applies if you hear that signature loud bang and your door won't lift.
If your door is older and both springs are original, consider replacing both at the same time even if only one has failed. The second one is living on borrowed time. Replacing both now beats a second service call in three months.
For extension springs, always replace both. They wear as a pair. Replacing just one leaves you with mismatched tension and an unbalanced door. We schedule same-day estimates for anyone dealing with a snapped spring in Driftwood and nearby areas. Call us at (830) 445-2562 to book.
The best spring replacement is the one you never need. Annual maintenance prevents most failures. Keep your door balanced. Clean your tracks. Lubricate moving parts. These habits buy you time and peace of mind.
If you're not comfortable with DIY maintenance, we offer full garage door maintenance tune-up services for homeowners throughout Driftwood and the surrounding region. A single tune-up costs far less than an emergency call.
Don't wait for a snapped spring to take action. Springs are predictable. You can see them coming. Schedule your free inspection today by calling (830) 445-2562 or getting a same-day estimate online. We'll tell you exactly what your springs need, and we'll price it honestly.
How long do garage door springs last? Most torsion springs last 7 to 9 years with regular maintenance. Extension springs typically last 5 to 7 years. Lifespan depends on climate, frequency of use, and lubrication habits.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself? No. Springs are wound under 200+ pounds of tension. A slip means serious injury. Always hire a licensed technician. DIY spring work causes more injuries than any other garage door issue.
What's the difference between one spring and two? Single springs handle lighter doors (around 250 pounds). Dual springs split the load for heavier doors or commercial applications. Your setup depends on door weight and manufacturer specs.
How much does a spring cost in Driftwood? Torsion springs run $200 to $350 each. Extension springs cost $150 to $250 each. Labor adds $100 to $200. Most single spring replacements total $300 to $450 installed.
Why did my spring break without warning? Springs don't usually fail without warning. Rust, lack of lubrication, and normal wear weaken them gradually. By year 7 or 8, failure is inevitable. Regular maintenance helps you replace them on your schedule instead of on an emergency basis.