Garage door spring replacement costs between $98–$371, depending on your spring type and door system. Extension springs cost less to replace, with prices from $98–$200, while torsion springs range from $192–$371 due to their complexity and higher material costs.
Garage door springs handle hundreds of pounds and can fail without notice. Most homeowners hire professionals for this job since the high tension makes replacing springs dangerous, particularly with older systems. A broken spring can also damage your garage door opener if you try forcing the door to work.
Key Takeaways
- Garage door spring replacement costs between $120 and $350, including materials and professional installation, with torsion springs being more expensive than extension springs.
- Extension springs typically last 7–12 years and cost $120–$200 to replace, while torsion springs last 8–15 years and cost $140–$350 to replace.
- Professional installation is strongly recommended due to the high tension and safety risks involved, especially for torsion springs which require specialized tools and techniques.
What Factors Affect Garage Door Spring Replacement Costs?
The average cost of replacing a garage door spring largely depends on the type of spring you’re replacing and the type of garage door you have. We explore these key factors below to help you estimate your final cost.
Note: The cost data featured in this section and throughout this guide was sourced using Homewyse, unless otherwise stated.
Cost by Type of Spring
The type of spring plays a major role in the cost. Torsion springs, which operate by twisting to create tension, are the more sophisticated option. While they come at a higher upfront cost, they reward you with extended durability, typically lasting 8–15 years. Extension springs, on the other hand, work through a simpler stretching mechanism. They come with a more modest price tag but generally need replacement sooner, usually within 7–12 years.
Garage door springs usually work in pairs, and when one fails, its partner isn’t far behind. This is why professionals typically recommend replacing both springs simultaneously. When we share replacement costs, we’re generally referring to a complete set of springs, not just a single unit.
| Type of Spring Replacement | Material Cost | Materials and Installation |
|---|---|---|
| Extension spring | $12–$50 | $98–$200 |
| Torsion spring | $108–$150 | $192–$371 |
Cost by Type of Door
Your garage door style and material affect spring replacement costs. For example, heavier garage doors need stronger springs and more complicated systems. Learn more about different types of garage doors and their spring replacement costs.
- Roll-up sectional doors ($192–$371): This type of garage door is standard in most newer homes. Roll-up doors use torsion springs above the opening, and have multiple panels that require proper balance.
- Single-panel tilt-up doors ($98–$200): Common in older homes with detached garages, single-panel doors use a simpler system with extension springs on each side.
- Insulated garage doors ($250–$400): The extra weight from this door’s insulation demands heavy-duty springs, often requiring larger torsion springs or dual spring systems. As a result, this type of door has higher material and labor costs.
- Double garage doors ($300–$600): These doors have a wider opening that needs multiple spring sets, and may use two separate torsion springs or four extension springs. However, labor time increases with door width, which can raise prices.
- Carriage-style doors ($200–$450): This type of door has decorative hardware that adds weight, and often needs custom spring sizing. Spring requirements vary based on the door’s swing-out and roll-up mechanism.
Cost With Additional Repairs
While you can’t repair a broken garage door spring (they’re designed to be replaced when they fail), other components of your system might need attention during the replacement process. A thorough inspection might reveal that your door tracks need adjusting or that your opener motor could benefit from cleaning and maintenance.
Many repair companies offer comprehensive service packages that address multiple issues simultaneously. For instance, a basic tune-up, which typically costs less than $100, might include lubrication and tension adjustments. If your cables show wear, replacing them along with the springs often makes sense and can be more cost-effective than handling these repairs separately. These repairs will add to your total cost:
| Additional Repair | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Cable replacement | $98–$120 |
| Track repair or replacement | $147–$200 |
| Garage door opener replacement | $371–$450 |
| Basic tune-up and lubrication | $45–$100 |
| Panel replacement | $860–$1,200 |
| Track realignment | $100–$175 |
| Weather stripping replacement | $50–$150 |
| Remote or keypad programming | $25–$75 |
Additional Cost Factors for Garage Door Springs
In addition to the type of spring and door, several important factors determine your garage door spring replacement cost.
- Number of doors: The cost naturally increases for homes with multiple garage doors, as each door needs attention. However, many garage door service providers offer discounts when springs are replaced on multiple doors during the same visit.
- Materials: The quality of the springs plays a crucial role in both cost and longevity. Think of garage door springs like tires on your car. While budget options exist, investing in higher-quality materials often pays off through extended lifespans and improved performance. Premium springs might cost more initially, but they typically offer better durability and smoother operation over time.
- Location: Like other home services, pricing is significantly influenced by your geographic location. Areas with higher costs of living generally see higher rates for both materials and labor. This variation reflects local market conditions, including factors like service providers’ overhead costs and regional supply chain differences.
- Converting springs: Some homeowners consider upgrading from extension to torsion springs. Although this conversion costs more than a replacement, it’s an investment in safety and longevity. Torsion springs not only last longer but also provide more controlled operation and enhanced safety features.
- Labor: Labor costs can fluctuate based on the complexity of the installation. For example, a mechanic might charge extra for hard-to-reach repairs. These additional charges reflect the extra time and expertise required to complete the job safely and effectively.
How To Save on Garage Door Spring Costs
While replacing garage door springs isn’t one of the costliest home projects, saving a few bucks where you can is always a win. Here are some practical tips to keep expenses in check:
- Call a professional early: If you suspect the springs are damaged, don’t force the door open or closed. This could worsen the damage. Instead, call a professional right away. Catching the problem early can prevent additional repairs and costs.
- Identify the problem: Before assuming the springs are the issue, do a quick troubleshooting check. If the door isn’t working, make sure the garage door opener batteries aren’t dead, inspect your circuit breaker, and confirm there’s no other obstruction or mechanical issue. If you don’t see a visibly broken spring, the problem might lie elsewhere.
- Invest in quality: When replacing springs, prioritize quality. High-grade springs may cost a little more upfront, but they’ll save you money in the long run by lasting longer and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Stay on top of maintenance: Regular maintenance extends the life of your garage door system. Lubricate the springs periodically and inspect your system for signs of wear and tear to catch potential issues before they become major problems.
- Vet your professional: Make sure the person or company you hire has specific experience working with your type of garage door spring, whether it’s a torsion or extension system. Hiring a specialized garage door company is often safer and more reliable than relying on a general handyman.
Signs You Need To Replace Your Garage Door Spring
Garage door springs make a loud banging noise when they snap, so you should know if they break. You can also look for a few other signs that indicate when your old garage door spring needs replacing.
- Crooked door or track: Springs losing tension unevenly can cause one side of your door to hang lower than the other side.
- Door that won’t open or close easily: Weak springs can’t support the door’s weight, making manual operation difficult or nearly impossible.
- Excessively squeaky springs: Creaking or grinding sounds mean worn coils may soon fail.
- Straining automatic garage door motor: Your garage door opener works harder when springs can’t do their job, leading to premature motor burnout.
- Visible rust or corrosion: Rust weakens the metal and creates rough spots that can cause springs to break unexpectedly.
Spring Replacement vs. Garage Door Replacement
Most spring failures don’t require a full door replacement. Does your door open smoothly when the springs work? Are the panels straight and undamaged? Then, replacing just the springs can save you thousands. A complete garage door replacement costs $956–$1,674, depending on the material, while spring replacement typically costs less than $400.
Older doors with multiple problems might benefit from full replacement. For example, you might consider a replacement if you’re dealing with broken springs, damaged panels, worn tracks, and an aging opener. These repair costs can quickly approach new door pricing. Plus, doors over 15 years old often have compatibility issues with modern spring systems, making replacement a smarter long-term choice.
DIY vs. Professional Garage Door Spring Replacement
Replacing garage door springs can be a tricky and potentially dangerous task, especially if you’re dealing with extension springs. These springs are under high tension and can snap unpredictably, posing serious injury if handled improperly. Torsion springs, while different, also require specialized tools and techniques to manage their tension safely. For these reasons, hiring a repair technician is often the safest and most efficient option.
That said, if you’re comfortable with tools and confident in your do-it-yourself (DIY) skills, you might consider replacing extension springs yourself in specific situations. To do so, you’ll need a new set of springs, two C-clamps, box wrenches, a stepladder, and a bathroom scale to measure the door’s weight. The process involves several careful steps: measuring the door’s height and weight, unbolting the pulley, disconnecting the safety cables, and replacing the springs one at a time. Always start by unplugging the garage door motor to prevent accidental activation.
Remember, safety is key. If you’re unsure at any point, it’s best to call in a professional.
How To Hire a Professional
When it comes to hiring a professional to replace your garage door springs, doing a little homework upfront can save you time, money, and potential headaches. We recommend speaking with and getting quotes from at least three companies to compare their services, pricing, and approach. Here are some things to ask about:
- Experience: Ask how long the company has been doing business in your area. A well-established local company is more likely to have a solid reputation and experience with your region’s specific needs.
- Insurance: If your state requires garage door installers to hold a license, confirm that it’s current. Bonding and insurance protect you in case of accidents or damage during the repair process.
- Warranties: Ask about warranties for both parts and labor. A good warranty demonstrates the company’s confidence in their work and gives you peace of mind.
- Customer ratings: Take a few minutes to read online reviews or testimonials. Look for consistent feedback about reliability, professionalism, and quality of work. A BBB rating and accreditation can be a helpful indicator of a company’s commitment to ethical business practices and customer service.
- Itemized quotes: Make sure their quotes are detailed, breaking down the costs for parts, labor, and any additional fees. Also, include a clear time frame for the project so you know what to expect.
FAQs About Garage Door Spring Replacement
How long does a garage door spring last?
The life expectancy of a new garage door spring is 7–12 years for an extension spring and 8–15 years for a torsion spring. This is equivalent to about 10,000 to 20,000 opening and closing cycles. If you open and close your garage once a day, 10,000 cycles equals about 14 years.
Should I open my garage door with a broken spring?
Do not attempt to open a garage door with one or more broken springs. The springs support the weight of the door. Without them, the door is too heavy to lift by hand.
Should I replace a garage door spring myself?
Replacing a garage door spring yourself is possible for extension springs, but we don’t recommend it for torsion springs. Torsion springs are under such high pressure that hiring a professional is much safer.
How We Determined Garage Door Spring Pricing
To provide current and accurate pricing for garage door springs, we analyzed product pricing using several industry sources, including 2025 contractor and cost estimates from Homewyse. However, note that the prices shared in this guide represent the average cost of materials and labor based on our research at the time of publication. Actual costs may vary depending on your location, garage door type and condition, and the scope of your spring replacement project.
