2026-08-20 7 min read
Your garage door springs are the hardest-working part of your entire system, yet most homeowners in Severance never think about them until one breaks. When a torsion or extension spring fails, your door won't open, close, or move safely. Understanding what causes failure and when to call for help can save you money and keep your family safe.
Springs aren't designed to last forever. A typical residential spring cycles 10,000 to 15,000 times before fatigue sets in. That sounds like a lot until you realize a door that opens and closes twice daily hits that limit in 7 to 9 years. Weather in Colorado accelerates the process. Cold winters, dry air, and temperature swings stress metal and weaken the coils faster than in milder climates.
A snapped spring usually happens without warning. You'll hear a loud bang or crack from your garage, then the door becomes immobile. Sometimes it stays in place (torsion springs), sometimes it crashes down partially (extension springs). Either way, you need professional help immediately. Attempting a DIY fix risks serious injury; springs carry enormous tension.
Most modern homes use torsion springs mounted horizontally above the door. These are safer, more durable, and better balanced than older extension springs that run along the sides. Both types serve the same job: counterbalancing your door's weight so the opener doesn't work as hard.
If your home still has extension springs, replacement with torsion springs is worth the investment. Torsion springs last longer and are less likely to fail suddenly. When you contact Garage Door Company Severance for an estimate, we'll assess which type you have and recommend the best upgrade path for your situation.
A single spring replacement typically costs between $200 and $400 for parts and labor, depending on the spring type and door weight. Some homeowners replace both springs at once, even if only one broke, since the second is likely near failure. This costs $350 to $600 but eliminates a return service call months later.
Our garage door repair cost guide covers pricing in detail, but here's the quick rule: if your springs are over 8 years old and one fails, replace both. If they're newer, a single repair is fine. We'll provide a transparent estimate before any work begins.
**Need garage door springs in Severance today?** Call 720-679-7226. we cover same-day service across the area.
Never attempt spring repair yourself. The tension stored in a wound spring can cause serious injury if released improperly. Professional technicians have the right tools, knowledge, and insurance to handle the job safely. Same-day service is often possible in Severance and the surrounding area.
Signs your springs need immediate attention include a door that won't open even with the opener running, visible gaps in the spring coils, or that telltale loud bang. Even if the door still moves, a weakened spring stresses the opener and door panels, leading to costlier repairs down the road.
Visit our services page to learn more about spring repair and schedule a free quote today.
You can't stop springs from wearing out, but regular maintenance slows the process. Lubrication keeps coils moving freely and reduces rust. A professional inspection catches small problems before they become failures. Our maintenance tune-up article details what a proper inspection covers, and we recommend annual checks for anyone serious about avoiding emergency calls.
Fort Collins and Loveland homeowners rely on the same preventive approach. A small annual investment beats a 2 AM emergency repair or a door stuck in the middle of winter.
When your spring fails, time matters. A broken spring isn't just inconvenient; it's a security risk. Your garage sits open or partially open, exposing tools and vehicles. The longer you wait, the more damage the door panels and opener might sustain.
Call 720-679-7226 or schedule a free same-day estimate online. We'll evaluate your springs, discuss whether repair or replacement makes sense, and get you a locked-in price. Most jobs complete within 24 hours of your call.
Garage door springs are simple in design but vital to safety. Treating them seriously now prevents bigger problems later.
How long do garage door springs last? Most residential springs last 7 to 9 years with normal use (twice daily cycles). Colorado's weather and temperature swings can shorten that lifespan. Professional lubrication and inspection help extend service life.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself? Not safely. Springs hold enormous tension and can cause serious injury if mishandled. Always hire a licensed professional with proper tools and liability coverage for this repair.
What's the difference between a torsion and extension spring? Torsion springs mount above the door and twist to counterbalance weight. Extension springs run along the sides and stretch. Torsion springs are safer, more durable, and last longer in most cases.
Why did my spring break without warning? Metal fatigue from repeated cycles, rust from moisture, and temperature stress weaken the coil over time. A sudden load or impact can cause the final break, but the spring was already near failure.
How much does a garage door spring replacement cost near me? Expect $200 to $400 for a single spring, or $350 to $600 to replace both springs at once. Costs vary by door weight and spring type. Call 720-679-7226 for a firm quote in Severance.