2026-07-16 7 min read A2Z Garage Doors
Garage door springs come in two types: torsion and extension. Torsion springs sit above the door and twist to lift it. Extension springs run along the sides and stretch. Most homes in Hemet use torsion because they're safer and last longer (7 to 9 years versus 5 to 7 for extension). If your door feels heavy, moves unevenly, or won't open, a snapped spring is often the culprit. This is not a DIY fix.
I've arrived at homes where a spring broke at 6 a.m. and the door was completely stuck by noon. Springs don't usually give warning. They wear out from thousands of open-close cycles. Heat in Hemet's desert climate speeds up that wear. Summer temperatures can exceed 115 degrees, and metal expands and contracts, stressing the coils.
Rust and corrosion also accelerate failure. If you've neglected maintenance or your garage lacks ventilation, moisture settles on the spring. Over time, the metal becomes brittle. One day the spring snaps under the door's full weight (usually 300 to 400 pounds), and now you're looking at an emergency call.
Torsion springs mount on a shaft above the center of the door. They twist like a corkscrew to store energy and lower the door smoothly. Because they're balanced, they put less strain on your garage door opener and the door tracks themselves.
Here's the critical safety point: torsion springs are under extreme tension. A snapped torsion spring can whip around and cause serious injury. Never attempt to replace one yourself, even if you watch a video. I've treated neighbors' injuries from DIY spring attempts that went wrong.
The cost to replace a torsion spring in Hemet typically ranges from $150 to $300 per spring, depending on the door size and whether you need one or both replaced. Most doors have two springs that work together. If one breaks, the other is usually close behind. Many homeowners find it smarter to replace both at once rather than pay for a second service call in a few months.
Extension springs run horizontally along each side of the door. They stretch as the door opens and contract as it closes. They're common on older homes or lighter doors because they're less expensive upfront.
The downside? Extension springs can snap with less warning, and the energy release is less controlled. Metal coils can snap off and hit you or nearby property. Safety cables run through the center of extension springs to contain debris if they break, but those cables can also fray and fail.
Replacement cost for extension springs runs $75 to $200 per spring, but the lower price tag often means choosing them again after they fail. Over the life of your garage door, torsion springs usually cost less total.
**Need garage door springs in Hemet today?** Call 951-390-7646. we cover same-day service across the area.
You should suspect a spring problem if your door opens only partway, closes too quickly, makes a loud bang, or feels heavier than normal when you manually lift it. Sometimes the spring hasn't snapped yet, but it's close. This is a perfect time to get a free estimate before a full failure traps your car inside.
Garage Door Hemet technicians can inspect both springs, check tension, and tell you exactly what needs replacement. We'll give you an upfront estimate so there are no surprises. If you want to understand pricing better, our guide on garage door cost and pricing in Hemet breaks down labor, parts, and regional differences.
A professional replacement takes about an hour. We'll adjust door balance, test the opener, and make sure everything tracks straight. Proper installation prevents future damage to your door and opener.
The best way to extend spring life is regular maintenance. An annual tune-up catches worn springs before they snap. Lubricate the springs and hinges with garage door lubricant (not WD-40, which dries out). Keep your garage ventilated to reduce rust. In Hemet's heat, this matters even more.
Our garage door tune-up service includes spring inspection, lubrication, and balance checks. Many customers find this $100 to $150 investment saves them $300 in emergency repairs down the road.
If you haven't had maintenance in over a year, now's the time. Heat and age are wearing on your springs right now.
Don't wait for a snapped spring to strand you. Call us at 951-390-7646 to schedule a free quote on spring replacement or a full maintenance inspection. We serve Hemet and surrounding areas in Riverside County with same-day service when possible.
Whether you need torsion or extension spring replacement, our team handles it safely and professionally. Your garage door is one of the heaviest moving parts of your home. Treat it with respect, and it will work reliably for years.
How do I know if my garage door spring is broken? Your door won't open, moves unevenly, feels extremely heavy when lifting manually, or you hear a loud bang. The door may hang crooked. Never force it open; call a professional immediately.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself? No. Torsion and extension springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury or death if they snap during removal. This is a job for licensed technicians only.
How much does a garage door spring cost in Hemet? Torsion springs run $150 to $300 each. Extension springs cost $75 to $200 each. Labor adds another $100 to $150. Most homes need both springs replaced together.
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion springs last 7 to 9 years with normal use. Extension springs last 5 to 7 years. Hemet's heat can reduce this lifespan. Regular maintenance helps.
Should I replace both springs at once or just the broken one? Replace both. Springs fail in pairs because they share the load. The surviving spring is already stressed and will snap soon after. One replacement visit beats two emergency calls.