Garage door torsion springs are coil springs that provide lifting power for opening and closing sectional garage doors. They wrap around a metal shaft above the door, securely fastened with cones attached to both ends. As the shaft turns, the springs wind and unwind to assist in lifting or lowering the heavy commercial door. When old springs break, it stops garage door operation. This article will explore the various heavy-duty commercial torsion spring systems to get your business garage running again quickly. We’ll look at when to replace springs, spring configurations, and professional installation options for smooth, reliable performance.
Understanding Torsion Springs and Extension Springs
Torsion springs are found above the opening of your garage door. They are wound around a bar connected to the top panel of the door. As you open and close the door, the springs twist and turn to help lift the weight of the door.
Extension springs run along the horizontal tracks on both sides of your garage door. They stretch and contract to help lift the door.
Comparing Torsion and Extension Garage Door Springs
Torsion springs last longer than extension springs. They also have a greater lift capacity, which is important for heavy commercial sectional doors.
That’s because torsion springs exert a turning force, or torque, as they wind and unwind. This allows them to store more energy to lift the door. Extension springs simply stretch and contract vertically as the door moves.
Torsion springs are the best choice for commercial sectional doors up to 14 feet wide. For larger doors, you may need several sets of springs mounted side-by-side on the torsion bar. High quality steel torsion springs can operate 25,000 to 50,000 open/close cycles.
Replacing Broken Torsion Springs
Measuring your old springs will ensure proper replacements. Key measurements include the wire diameter, inside diameter, length, and number of coils. Commercial torsion springs have thicker wire and more windings than residential springs.
You’ll also need new cable drums, center bearing plates, and bottom mounting brackets. Quality torsion spring systems include all necessary hardware for safe installation.
Choose torsion springs with galvanized or stainless steel construction for longevity. Pay attention to the “cones rating” which indicates the safe lifting capacity. American made springs exceed minimum industry standards for cycles, lift, and security.
When replacing garage door torsion springs, always use winding bars and cones to safely install the new springs. Then balance the door correctly so the new springs don’t wear out too quickly.
I aimed to provide an informative overview comparing torsion and extension springs, focusing on commercial torsion spring specifications and proper installation. Please let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!
When To Replace Garage Door Torsion Springs
Commercial garage doors rely on torsion springs to lift and lower the heavy door. After repeated daily use, these essential springs eventually wear out and must be replaced to keep the system working properly. Knowing when to swap in new torsion springs can help avoid disruptions to your business operations.
Warning Signs Your Torsion Springs Need Replacement
Several clear signals indicate aging springs that are ready for a change. If your commercial garage door is sticking, feels heavy to open manually, or no longer stays lifted on its own, the torsion springs likely need replacing. Sagging at the edges of the door while open can also reveal weakened springs unable to fully bear the door’s weight. Strange noises like loud creaking or grinding noises point to worn-out springs as well. Replacing old springs before they snap avoids unexpected door failures during business hours.
Extension Spring vs Torsion Spring Systems
Two main spring configurations that counterbalance heavy commercial doors include:
Torsion springs – Sturdy springs mounted on a metal shaft running above the door. The springs twist and untwist around the shaft as the door is lifted or lowered. Torsion springs come in custom sizes based on door height and weight.
Extension springs – Longer springs running vertically alongside the door tracks. As the door moves, the springs stretch out and retract to assist lifting. Extension springs absorb less weight but cost less than beefier torsion springs.
Upgrading to rugged torsion springs engineered for frequent commercial use is often the best option for shops and garages. Be sure to match the correct spring specifications including diameter, length, coils, and left/right winding to your existing hardware.
Commercial Torsion Spring Materials and Lifespan
Importance of Steel Torsion Springs
The torsion springs on your garage door play a critical role in lifting and lowering the heavy door. Commercial-grade springs are typically made from hardened steel, which provides excellent durability and longevity compared to cheaper springs. Steel allows the coils to flex repeatedly without fatiguing or breaking prematurely. For businesses that raise and lower their garage doors frequently each day, choosing the strongest steel springs is crucial to minimize repairs and replacement costs over the lifetime of the door.
Torsion Spring Lifespans
How long your steel torsion springs last depends on the quality of the springs and how often they cycle. The highest quality carbon steel springs with thick wire diameter can last over 20,000 cycles in ideal conditions. However, opening and closing a garage door multiple times per day can wear out even the strongest springs in just a few years. Keeping your door hardware properly lubricated and maintained will help maximize the lifespan. If one spring breaks prematurely, it’s advisable to replace both sides at once since the unbroken spring is likely fatigued as well.
Hardware Compatibility Issues
When replacing worn or broken torsion springs, you must carefully match the new springs to the specifications of your existing door hardware. Subtle factors like the inside diameter, length, wire size, and number of coils must align with the original springs to restore proper door balance and operation. If your current springs have any identification tags, these details make spring selection easier. Otherwise, precise measurements must be taken. Using winding bars to install springs adds another layer of danger if the bars do not correctly fit the winding cones. Ultimately, replacing springs with incompatible hardware can lead to premature failure or even dangerous door malfunctions. Consult a professional if you have any hesitation matching new torsion springs to your current garage door system.
Measure Springs to Match Specifications
When it’s time to replace the torsion springs on your garage door, it’s important to measure the old springs carefully so you can find the best replacement option. The springs contain a tremendous amount of energy to help lift that heavy door, so you want to make sure the new ones have the right specifications.
Why Measurements Matter
The measurements that matter most are the wire diameter, overall length, inside diameter, and number of coils. The wire diameter impacts the springs’ strength. The overall length and inside diameter affect how tightly the springs will wind around the shaft. And the number of coils impacts the “stroke” – how far the spring can twist before it’s fully wound.
Matching all of these measurements will ensure your new torsion springs can repeat the exact winding and unwinding motion of your old springs. If the measurements are off, the springs won’t synchronize properly which can cause them to wear out faster.
Steps for Measuring Springs
First, measure how thick the wire is using a caliper tool. This is your wire diameter spec. Next, use a tape measure to get the overall length from end-to-end. Then measure the inside diameter using the tape measure. Count the number of coils visually.
Repeat this process for both the left and right springs because they may vary slightly. Also note things like the winding direction and whether the springs have a colored or galvanized finish.
With all those measurements in hand, you can now shop for the properly matched torsion spring replacements your garage door needs. Just provide the specs to manufacturers like Clopay, Ideal Security, Anvil International, and Dura-Lift.
Commercial Torsion Spring Configurations
Commercial garages often require heavy-duty torsion springs to lift big, heavy doors. Choosing the right spring system is key to smooth, reliable operation. Two main configurations exist:
Single and Double-Wound Torsion Springs
Single-wound torsion springs have one continuous coil. The spring slides onto a winding shaft, anchored on both ends by bottom brackets. As the spring is wound using winding bars, potential energy builds. The anchored ends prevent the spring from unwinding prematurely.
Double-wound springs are made of two coils side-by-side on one shaft. This doubles the lifting power using the same spring diameter. Double-wound springs can lift heavier doors without requiring larger springs.
Both single and double-wound systems work well for commercial doors. Double-wound springs provide more lift capacity efficiently. Single-wound options offer cheaper replacement parts.
Extension vs Torsion Springs
Extension springs stretch and contract to operate doors. Torsion springs twist and untwist around the shaft.
Torsion springs have key advantages:
– Located above the horizontal tracks, they free up interior headroom
– More adjustable, with easy rewinding if the door becomes unbalanced
– Energy transfers through the shaft, minimizing wear on tracks
However, extension springs suit some lightweight commercial doors well. Consider all factors before choosing a system.
Upgrading old extension springs to a modern torsion shaft system may improve safety and functionality. Consult a professional to ensure proper specification and compatibility with existing tracks and hardware.
I aimed to educate on commercial torsion spring configurations in a simple, engaging way for a 4th grade reading level. Please let me know if you would like me to modify or expand the content further.
Torsion Spring Winding Bars for Adjustments
Garage doors use torsion springs to lift and lower the heavy door. The springs attach to a winding shaft above the door. As the springs wind and unwind, they create lift power to open and close the door.
Over time, these springs can wear out or break from use. When this happens, you’ll need to replace them. This requires winding and adjusting the new springs to the right tension.
Using Winding Bars
To adjust torsion springs, you need winding bars. These are metal rods that fit into holes on the winding cones attached to the springs. Winding bars give you leverage so you can safely wind or loosen the springs to the correct tension.
Choosing the right size winding bars is important. Measure the inside diameter of your torsion springs. Then match this to winding bars designed for that spring size. Using winding bars that don’t fit can damage the spring or slip out during winding. This can cause serious injury.
Most torsion spring systems use one or two springs per garage door. So you’ll need one or two high-quality steel winding bars to adjust both springs at once. Winding bars usually come in pairs.
Safe Handling
Always exercise extreme caution when using winding bars. The amount of tension in torsion springs can be hundreds of pounds. If a spring breaks or slips during winding, the bars can react violently, causing harm.
Consider hiring a professional installer to adjust or replace your torsion springs instead. They have the right tools and hands-on experience to get the job done safely.
If you choose to DIY, use proper protective gear like goggles and gloves. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely. Get help from an assistant to stabilize the bars during winding. Rushing the job or winding the springs too tightly increases the risks.
Taking your time and handling torsion spring winding bars with care protects both you and your garage door. Adjusting springs isn’t easy, but with patience it can be done safely by homeowners. Getting professional help is often the wisest choice.
Torsion Spring Coils, Diameter and Length
Importance of Proper Spring Sizing
The diameter and length of your garage door’s torsion springs are critical to lifting and balancing the door properly. If the springs are too small, they will wear out faster from overworking. If they are too big, the door will feel heavy and hard to open.
Choosing springs with the right number of coils is also important. More coils allow the spring to stretch and contract smoothly during thousands of open/close cycles. Springs with fewer coils wear out faster.
When one of your torsion springs breaks, both springs should be replaced as a pair. This ensures the lifting force is balanced on both sides. Mixing old and new springs causes uneven wear and stress.
Replacement Options to Get Your Door Working Again
Once a torsion spring breaks, you have two options – DIY or professional replacement. DIY is cheaper but more dangerous if done incorrectly. The springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury if they break during installation.
Hiring a qualified garage door technician is safest, but costs $200-$300 for parts and labor. They have the tools and experience to replace springs without getting hurt. This option also comes with a warranty on parts and workmanship.
No matter which path you choose, properly sized torsion springs are vital for a smooth, long-lasting garage door. Paying attention to diameter, length and number of coils during replacement prevents future issues down the road.
Torsion Spring Left-hand vs Right-hand Winding
When replacing torsion springs on your commercial garage door, it’s crucial to identify whether you need a left-hand wound or right-hand wound torsion spring. Garage door torsion springs come wound in either direction, providing counterbalance to lift the weight of the door. Choosing the incorrect winding direction can lead to an imbalanced door that is inefficient and potentially hazardous.
Determining Winding Direction
The winding direction refers to which way the coils in the spring wrap around the shaft as you look at the spring. To figure out if you need a left-hand or right-hand wound spring:
- Stand inside your garage and face the opening of the door.
- If the coils wrap counterclockwise from your point of view, you need a right-hand wound spring.
- If they wrap clockwise, you require a left-hand wound spring.
You can also identify winding direction by looking at the winding cones on each end of the torsion spring. The stationary cone will have a stamp indicating whether it is “LH” for left-hand or “RH” for right-hand wound.
Correct Winding Critical for Balance
Installing the proper left-hand or right-hand wound springs is imperative for the torsion springs to counterbalance the door correctly. The springs stretch and contract to offset the door’s weight as it opens and closes.
Using the incorrect winding direction throws off this equilibrium, causing extra strain and wear on the cables, track hardware, and other components. It can also lead to the door feeling much heavier and more difficult to operate.
When replacing garage door torsion springs, take the time to accurately determine left-hand vs right-hand winding. This ensures smooth, reliable, and safe operation of your commercial garage door for years to come. Consult a professional if you have any uncertainty over winding direction.
Torsion Spring Inside Diameter Matches the Shaft
The torsion springs inside your garage door system are a crucial component that lift the weight of the door. It’s important that the inside diameter of the torsion spring properly matches the diameter of the torsion shaft. This ensures that the cables and cable drums align correctly for smooth and safe door operation.
Solid vs. Split Torsion Shafts
Garage doors come in many different heights and weights. Lighter weight doors usually have a solid torsion shaft, while heavier doors require a split shaft. Solid shafts are simpler, but split shafts allow for easier spring winding and tension adjustments. Check your door specifications to determine which shaft type you need when replacing springs.
Proper Spring Inside Diameter
Closely inspect your existing torsion springs and measure the inside diameter. Compare this to the shaft size to ensure your new torsion springs have a matching inside diameter. Improper fitting springs lead to uneven cable winding on the drums, causing the door to bind, stick, or have difficult operation.
When you order replacement torsion springs, carefully note the number of spring coils and the winding cone style. Torsion springs are precisely engineered and rated for your specific door’s height and weight. Ordering incorrectly sized springs leads to an imbalanced door, accelerated wear, and potential safety hazards.
Work with an experienced garage door specialist to select and install the proper torsion springs for your system. They have winding tools to evenly set spring tension for smooth, long-lasting operation. Properly matched torsion spring inside diameter and shaft size keeps your garage door operating safely for years to come.
Torsion Spring Bottom Brackets and Cable Drums
Garage doors need springs to help lift them up and down. Special very strong springs called torsion springs are used. Torsion springs attach to the shaft above the door. As the shaft turns, the springs wind and unwind to lift or lower the heavy door.
Parts Working Together
The torsion springs connect to cable drums on the shaft. The cables then run down to the bottom of the door. When you push the remote to open the door, the shaft and cable drums start turning. This winds up the torsion springs. The cables lift up the door. Components like brackets and winding cones also help the springs do their job.
All the parts have to fit together correctly. If one piece is wrong or breaks, the door might get stuck. So the bottom brackets that hold the shaft must match the springs. The cables and drums also need to work with the size and type of door.
Time to Replace Springs
After many years and thousands of cycles, torsion springs wear out. You’ll notice the heavy garage door starts getting harder to open. Key signs mean it’s time to replace springs:
- Loud or straining motor
- Door not staying open
- Cables come loose or break
The good news about modern garage doors is that you can often replace just the broken torsion spring. You don’t need to get a whole new door. Finding the right replacement torsion springs is important though.
Hardware stores have springs in common sizes. Or check manufacturer websites to find the exact replacement part number. Make sure to note which side torsion spring you need – left or right wound. Measure the old springs and match their length and inside diameter too.
With the right springs, cables, bottom brackets and drums – your garage door will be working smoothly again in no time!
Torsion Spring Cones and Winding Hardware
Torsion springs are an important part of any garage door system. They attach to the metal shaft above the door using winding cones. The cones connect the springs to the shaft and allow you to adjust the springs by winding them.
Why Proper Hardware is Important
Choosing the right torsion spring hardware is key to smooth and safe operation of your commercial garage doors. The cones, brackets, and winding bars all need to work together properly. Using incorrect hardware can be dangerous and cause the heavy door to not function efficiently.
For example, if the cones don’t fit the springs correctly, the springs could detach from the shaft while winding. This can seriously injure someone or damage the door. Or if the brackets connecting the shaft to the wall are loose, it affects door balance and makes lifting difficult.
Replacing Old Springs
Over time, opening and closing the heavy commercial door causes metal torsion springs to wear out and break. When one spring breaks, both springs should be replaced as a pair. Replacing only one can cause uneven door lifting.
To replace torsion springs yourself, first measure the old springs to find the correct replacements. Measure the wire diameter, inside coil diameter, and overall length. Also count the number of coils. Then order a matching set of new torsion springs designed for your door’s size and weight.
When the new springs arrive, carefully wind them using winding bars. Have a friend help for safety. One person winds while the other watches the door cables and tracks. Wind equally on both sides to balance the lift. Then test operation before regular use.
Extension Spring Alternatives
Some garage doors instead have extension springs along the horizontal tracks. These stretch and contract as the door moves. Over time, the stretching metal causes cracks and breaks. Replacing extension springs is easier than torsion springs, not requiring winding bars.
But for heavy commercial doors, the multiple extension springs required can cost more in the long run than torsion springs. The weight also tends to make extension springs wear out faster. That’s why torsion springs are usually better for commercial applications.
Getting Professional Garage Door Spring Replacement
Commercial garage doors require torsion springs designed for heavy use. These spiral-wound springs lift the door via cables on winding shafts. Choosing springs with proper specifications is crucial.
Spring Types and Materials
Two main options exist – torsion and extension springs. Torsion springs mount on a rod above the door. As the door opens, the springs unwind and create lift power. Extension springs stretch and contract as the door moves. They mount vertically along the door’s sides.
Commercial springs have thicker steel construction than residential models. They resist corrosion better for increased longevity. Measure your current springs to match specifications when replacing them. Key measurements include inside diameter, length, and number of coils.
Hiring Professionals
Proper installation balance is vital to smooth operation and safety. Rather than risking injury from the extreme tension inside wound springs, consider hiring experts. Companies like Overhead Door of Sacramento have specialized tools and knowledge for efficient garage door spring replacement.
They inventory a wide range of commercial-grade springs to match your door’s weight and dimensions. Technicians evaluate your existing setup and make customized recommendations. This ensures upgraded springs provide proper balance and long-lasting functionality.
Call Today for Superior Garage Door Spring Services
As a top overhead garage door company serving Sacramento for over 70 years, The Overhead Door Company of Sacramento offers unparalleled expertise in garage door spring repair and replacement. Our experienced technicians utilize top-quality parts and methods to get your commercial garage back up and running quickly and safely.
Don’t leave your business vulnerable to unexpected garage door downtime – unexpected spring wear can stop operations. Trust our certified professionals to come assess your springs and recommend the ideal heavy-duty torsion or extension spring system replacement for your doors. We carry all commercial grades and types while prioritizing innovation, durability and compatibility with your existing hardware.
To request a free quote from our friendly experts on superior garage door spring replacement services tailored to your business, call (916) 421-3747 now. Keep your commercial garage doors lifting smoothly for years to come.
