For Lakewood homeowners replacing garage door springs, choose torsion if you want a quieter, longer-lasting spring system that handles heavier doors and stays safer when broken. Choose extension if you have a lighter door and want lower upfront costs.
What are torsion springs?
Torsion springs are metal coils mounted above the garage door that twist to lift and lower the door. They’re the most common choice in Lakewood because they balance the door’s weight evenly and last longer than extension springs. If your door is 9 feet tall or weighs over 150 pounds, torsion springs are almost always the right fit. They’re also quieter and safer because they don’t fling parts across the garage if they break. Learn more about our spring replacement services
What are extension springs?
Extension springs stretch along the horizontal tracks on either side of the door to counterbalance its weight. They’re simpler and cheaper upfront, which makes them popular for lighter garage doors under 12 feet tall. In Lakewood, older homes or rental properties often still have extension springs because they’ve been around longer. However, they wear out faster and can snap unpredictably, sending metal parts flying. See how we safely replace extension springs in Lakewood
Pros of torsion springs for Lakewood homes
Torsion springs last 10,000–20,000 cycles—about 7–15 years in Lakewood’s humid climate—because they’re protected inside the torsion tube. They lift heavier doors smoothly, so they’re ideal for Lakewood’s mix of colonials and modern homes with wide double doors. Their balanced design reduces strain on the opener and tracks, cutting long-term repair costs. Plus, they’re safer: a broken torsion spring stays contained, unlike extension springs that can launch debris. Compare spring lifespans and costs in our pricing guide
Pros of extension springs for Lakewood budgets
Extension springs cost $50–$150 less upfront than torsion springs, making them attractive for Lakewood rentals or budget repairs. They’re easier to install in older garages with low ceilings or limited headroom. However, their exposed position means they rust faster in Lakewood’s salty coastal air and wear out in 5,000–10,000 cycles—about 3–7 years. They’re also louder and less stable if a spring snaps. Check if your Lakewood home qualifies for extension spring repair
Cost, lifespan, and safety trade-offs in Lakewood
In Lakewood, torsion springs cost $150–$350 installed, while extension springs run $80–$200. Torsion springs last longer but need professional adjustment to avoid misalignment—a common issue in Lakewood’s older garages with uneven floors. Extension springs are cheaper but require more frequent checks, especially after Lakewood’s humid summers or winter salt spray. Safety-wise, torsion springs are the clear winner: their containment system prevents injuries. Extension springs need safety cables to reduce risk. Read our Lakewood-specific spring safety tips
How to pick the right spring for your Lakewood garage
Start by weighing your door’s weight and height. Torsion springs handle doors over 150 pounds or taller than 9 feet—common in Lakewood’s larger homes. Extension springs suit lighter, shorter doors, like those in Lakewood’s 1950s ranches or rental units. Next, consider noise: torsion springs are quieter, important if your garage is attached to your Lakewood home. Finally, factor in climate: Lakewood’s humidity and salt air speed up rust, so torsion springs’ enclosed design wins. Need help deciding? Schedule a free Lakewood spring inspection
Lakewood’s climate and spring performance
Lakewood’s muggy summers and snowy winters take a toll on garage springs. Torsion springs, tucked inside the header, stay drier and rust less than exposed extension springs. Salt from winter road treatments also accelerates wear on extension springs, especially in garages near Lakewood’s Route 9 or the Parkway. If your garage faces east or west, morning dew or afternoon sun can warp extension springs faster. Torsion springs handle these swings better, making them the smarter long-term choice for Lakewood homeowners. See how we protect springs from Lakewood’s tough seasons
When to call a Lakewood pro for spring help
If your garage door slams shut, sags unevenly, or makes loud banging noises, your springs may be failing. In Lakewood, sudden temperature swings can loosen extension springs, while torsion springs may need rebalancing after a door gets bumped by a car. Never DIY spring replacement—both types store deadly tension. A licensed pro will inspect your door’s balance, adjust or replace springs safely, and ensure your Lakewood garage meets local codes. Book a Lakewood spring safety check today
| Factor | Torsion | Extension |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | $150–$350 installed | $80–$200 installed |
| Lifespan | 10,000–20,000 cycles (7–15 years) | 5,000–10,000 cycles (3–7 years) |
| Safety | Contained failure, safer | Can fling debris, needs safety cables |
| Noise | Quiet operation | Louder, more vibration |
| Best For | Heavy doors >150 lbs, tall doors >9 ft | Light doors <150 lbs, short doors <12 ft |
| Climate Impact | Rust-resistant, enclosed | Rust-prone, exposed |
| Maintenance | Low—annual checkups | High—check every 6 months |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace just one torsion spring in my Lakewood garage, or do I need both?
Replace both torsion springs at the same time in Lakewood. If one fails, the other is usually close behind due to shared wear. Mixing old and new springs unbalances the door, risking opener damage or injury. Learn why balanced springs matter in our Lakewood spring guide
How often should I check my garage door springs in Lakewood’s salty air?
Inspect Lakewood springs every 6 months—before winter salt season and after summer humidity peaks. Look for rust, gaps, or uneven gaps between coils. Extension springs need closer checks due to exposure. See our Lakewood spring maintenance checklist
My Lakewood garage door is off-track after a spring snapped. Can I drive it until spring replacement?
No. A broken spring makes the door dangerously unbalanced, risking opener burnout or injury. In Lakewood, call a pro immediately—especially if the door is near your home’s living space. Read our Lakewood off-track repair guide for next steps
Are extension springs ever allowed in new Lakewood garage door installations?
Most Lakewood builders now use torsion springs for new doors due to safety and longevity. Extension springs are grandfathered in older homes but aren’t code-compliant for new builds. Check local codes with our Lakewood team
Our Honest Recommendation
For Lakewood homeowners with heavier or taller garage doors, torsion springs are the safer, longer-lasting choice—ideal for colonials or modern homes near the Parkway. Choose extension springs only if you have a lightweight door, a tight budget, or an older rental property. In Lakewood’s humid, salty climate, torsion springs resist rust and last years longer, saving money over time. Always hire a licensed pro for spring work; DIY attempts can cause serious injury. Get a free Lakewood spring inspection to decide
Not sure which is right for your Lakewood home? Lexington Garage Door's Repairs LLC is licensed, insured, and gives Lakewood homeowners a free written estimate.