2026-08-02 7 min read
A customer called last Tuesday saying her garage door wouldn't open. When we arrived, one torsion spring had snapped completely. She'd been paying $180 a month for a gym membership while her door stayed stuck. Here's what every Montverde homeowner needs to know about garage door springs, the two main types, and why they cost what they do.
Your garage door relies on one of two spring systems. Understanding which one you have matters for cost, safety, and repair timelines.
Torsion springs sit horizontally above your garage door opening. They twist (torque) to lift the weight of your door. Most modern homes in Montverde use torsion springs because they're durable, safer, and last longer than their counterpart. A quality torsion spring typically lasts 7 to 9 years with regular use.
Extension springs run vertically along each side of the door track. They stretch and contract to provide lift. Older homes often have extension springs. They're cheaper upfront but wear out faster, usually in 5 to 7 years. If one snaps, the other often follows within months.
The key difference: torsion springs fail quietly and completely. Extension springs can snap with a loud bang that sounds like a gunshot. Either way, a snapped spring means your door won't move.
Springs don't just break randomly. They fail because they're under constant tension. Every time you open and close your door, the spring cycles. Over thousands of cycles, the metal fatigues and weakens.
Rust accelerates failure. Florida's humidity is relentless. If you live in Montverde or nearby areas with salt air influence (like those closer to the coast), corrosion eats away at spring coils faster. A spring that should last 9 years might give out in 6.
Cold weather also stresses springs. While Montverde winters are mild, occasional freezes cause metal to contract and become brittle. A brittle spring snaps under normal load.
The cost to replace garage door springs typically ranges from $250 to $600 per spring, including labor. A single torsion spring replacement usually runs $300 to $450. Extension springs cost less to replace individually (around $150 to $250 each), but you should replace both at the same time. See our detailed breakdown on garage door springs cost, lifespan and when to replace for exact pricing.
**Need garage door springs in Montverde today?** Call (352) 758-3130. We cover same-day service for snapped springs and spring replacements across the area.
This is where doing the job right pays off. Don't wait for a spring to snap. Spring failure is preventable through maintenance.
Annual inspection catches corrosion early. Lubricate springs every 12 months with a silicone-based lubricant (not WD-40). This reduces friction and slows oxidation. Check for visible rust, uneven door movement, or creaking sounds during operation. These are warning signs that a spring is weakening.
If your door opener is working harder than usual, if the door closes too fast, or if one side feels heavier than the other, your springs are nearing failure. Read our maintenance guide for Montverde homeowners to catch these issues before they strand you.
Never attempt spring replacement yourself. Garage door springs are under 100 to 300 pounds of tension. A snapped spring can cause serious injury or death. This isn't a DIY task. Professional technicians have the right tools, knowledge, and safety equipment. When you call Garage Door Montverde, you're getting someone who respects the work and does it properly.
A snapped spring is an emergency. Your door becomes a security risk and a hassle. You can't get your car out, and anyone with basic tools can lift your door manually and gain access to your home.
If you're dealing with a snapped spring right now, schedule a free estimate and learn about our emergency repair options. We handle same-day replacements for springs, and we're transparent about cost before we start work.
Spring replacement isn't complex for trained professionals, but it's critical work. The wrong installation leads to premature failure and safety hazards. We get springs right the first time.
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion springs last 7 to 9 years with regular use. Extension springs last 5 to 7 years. Florida humidity and temperature swings can shorten lifespan by 1 to 2 years.
Can I replace just one spring? Technically yes, but it's not wise. If one spring fails, the other is near failure. Replacing both ensures balanced, even door movement and prevents a second failure weeks later.
What does a garage door spring replacement cost near me? Single torsion spring replacement runs $300 to $450 labor included. Extension springs cost $150 to $250 each. Get a free estimate by calling (352) 758-3130.
What causes springs to snap? Metal fatigue from repeated cycles, rust from humidity, temperature extremes, and lack of lubrication all contribute. Springs simply wear out over time.
Is a snapped spring dangerous? Yes. The door becomes heavy and difficult to open. A loose or broken spring can snap suddenly and cause injury. Treat it as an emergency and call a professional immediately.