How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last? Expert Insights from Ace Overhead Doors, LLC

Garage door springs may seem like a small part of your garage door system, but they are truly the workhorses that make smooth and safe operation possible. Homeowners relying on prompt, dependable garage door services in CT often ask: “How long do garage door springs really last?” Here, Ace Overhead Doors, LLC shares expert insights to help you understand spring lifespan, signs of wear, and the importance of professional help.

The lifespan of a garage door spring is mainly measured in cycles, where one cycle equals one full opening and closing of your garage door. Most standard manufacturer springs are rated for about 10,000 cycles, translating to roughly 7–9 years of average use, assuming the door is operated four to five times per day.

Spring Lifespans by Type:

• Standard Springs: Typically last 7–9 years (about 10,000 cycles) with average use.
• Oil-Tempered Springs: Offer increased durability, often lasting up to 10 years or about 15,000 cycles.
• Premium or Lifetime Springs: Some high-end, powder-coated or “lifetime” springs can last over 22 years under standard usage.

The actual years of usage can vary depending on how frequently you use your door, its weight, and the quality of the spring itself. Heavy garage doors or unusually frequent use will shorten the lifespan, sometimes to as little as four years.

Garage door springs endure significant tension and stress. Each time you open or close your garage door, the springs compress and expand, gradually weakening over thousands of cycles. Other factors that affect longevity include:

• Spring quality: Higher-grade materials last longer.
• Proper sizing: Springs that are too large or too small for your door wear unevenly and may need earlier replacement.
• Installation and climate: Professional installation ensures springs are balanced and installed in optimal conditions, minimizing premature wear.

Are you noticing any of the following with your garage door?

• The door feels heavier or is difficult to lift
• The door flies open too quickly
• Visible gaps or stretching in the spring coils
• Loud snapping or popping noises

If you experience these warning signs, your springs may be reaching the end of their lifespan and should be replaced soon.

You can’t repair a garage door spring after it breaks, so your only option is to replace the pair of springs at the same time. You want them both to experience the same amount of wear, which will maintain the safety of the garage door.

Replacing garage door springs is not a DIY project—it’s dangerous, requires specialized tools, and demands technical expertise. For safety and to protect your investment, always consult a professional team like Ace Overhead Doors, LLC for all your garage door services in CT. Our trained technicians ensure proper spring selection, balanced installation, and long-term reliability.

• Schedule regular inspections by a qualified technician.
• Lubricate springs as part of routine maintenance.
• Replace both springs together to maintain balance.
• Avoid excessive or unnecessary garage door operations when possible.

Understanding how long your garage door springs last helps you plan for timely maintenance and avoid unexpected breakdowns. If you’re seeking reliable garage door services in CT, trust the local experts at Ace Overhead Doors, LLC for honest assessments, professional installation, and dedicated support. Contact us today to schedule a spring inspection or to upgrade to durable, high-performance springs.

Ace Overhead Doors, LLC – Your Connecticut Garage Door Experts.