How To Measure Garage Door Springs: Guideline With Size Chart
Garage door springs are critical components that support the door’s weight and facilitate smooth opening and closing. Whether you have garage door extension springs that run along the horizontal tracks or torsion springs mounted above the door, accurate measurements are essential to ensure you get the right replacement springs. How to measure garage door springs?
Determine the Wire Size and measure the diameter inside. Then measure the total overall length and check the wind direction. In this article, I will explore the spring types of the garage doors, the spring color-coding system, and the cost of the springs. Let’s dive in!
Types of Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs play a crucial role in the proper functioning of the garage door. They are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door and ensuring smooth and controlled movement during opening and closing. There are two main types of garage door springs:
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are among the most common types of garage door springs used in modern garage doors. They work by twisting and coiling to store energy when the garage door is in the closed position. When you activate the garage door opener, the stored energy is released, causing the springs to unwind and lift the door smoothly.
Above the garage door, torsion springs are mounted horizontally and they are known for their durability and ability to provide better balance to the door. They come in different sizes and configurations, depending on factors such as the weight, height, and track radius of the garage door. It’s crucial to choose the right size and type of torsion spring to ensure the door operates safely and efficiently.
Extension Springs
Extension spring is another type of garage door springs, typically found in older garage door systems. Unlike torsion springs, extension type springs are mounted on both sides of the door, usually near the tracks. When the door is closed, the springs are in a stretched position. As you open the door, the springs expand and contract to support the door’s weight and facilitate its movement.
While extension springs are less common in newer garage door systems, they are still used in certain applications. However, it’s important to note that extension springs can be potentially dangerous if they become worn out or break. Proper maintenance and regular inspections are essential to ensure their safe operation.
The Spring Color-Coding System
The spring color-coding system is used by manufacturers to label garage door springs based on their properties and specifications. The color of the spring’s winding cone or end cone is indicative of various characteristics such as wire size, length, and wind direction.
Understanding this system is crucial when it comes to replacing garage door springs. Using the wrong spring can lead to imbalances, door malfunctions, and safety hazards. Homeowners should consult their garage door’s manual or a professional technician to determine the appropriate color-coding for their specific garage door model.
How to Choose Torsion Springs for a Garage Door?
Choosing the right torsion springs for your garage door is crucial to ensure proper functioning and safety. Here are the steps to guide you through the process:
Determine the Wire Size
The wire size of a torsion spring is a critical factor that determines its lifting capacity. The thicker the wire, the more weight the spring can support. When selecting torsion springs, you’ll need to measure the wire size accurately. This information can often be found on the existing spring or the garage door manufacturer’s specifications.
Measure the Diameter Inside
The inside diameter of the torsion spring must match the diameter of the shaft on which it will be mounted. A proper fit is crucial to ensure the spring operates smoothly and safely. Measuring the inside diameter involves carefully determining the distance between the innermost coils of the spring.
Measure the Total Length
Knowing the overall length of the torsion spring is essential for preventing the door from sagging or binding during operation. To measure the overall length, start at one end of the spring and measure to the other end, including the coils and the cones on each side.
Check the Direction of the Wind
Torsion springs are manufactured with specific wind directions – left-wound and right-wound. This refers to the direction in which the spring coils when under tension. It’s crucial to identify the correct wind direction for your garage door to ensure that the spring operates correctly and does not become unwound.
How Much Can a Garage Door Spring Cost?
The garage door spring cost may vary for several factors. The factors are spring types, its size, and the manufacturer. Torsion springs are generally more expensive than extension springs due to their design and durability. For a reasonable average cost of $250, a skilled technician can perform a garage door spring repair, but the final price may vary, ranging from $150 to $350.
The specific factors that influence the garage door spring replacement cost include door size, type, and the number of springs required, as well as the quantity of doors, location, and labor rates. It’s essential to consider the quality and longevity of the springs rather than solely focusing on the price to ensure safety and reliability.
Garage Door Spring Size Chart
Determining the appropriate size of a torsion spring for a garage door involves calculating the spring’s wire size, inside diameter, and length based on the wire size of your garage door. The following chart can serve as a general reference for selecting the correct torsion spring size based on the wire size of the garage door:
Torsion Spring Measurement Chart
| Wire Size | Length of 10 Coils(Inch) | Length of 20 Coils(Inch) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| .125 | 1 ¼ | 2 ½ | |
| .135 | 2 ¾ | 1 ⅜ | |
| .142 | 1 7/16 | 2 ⅞ | |
| .148 | 1 ½ | 3 | |
| .156 | 1 9/16 | 3 ⅛ | |
| .162 | 1 5/8 | 3 ¼ | |
| .170 | 1 1/16 | 3 3/8 | |
| .177 | 1 3/4 | 3 1/2 | |
| .187 | 1 7/8 | 3 3/4 | |
| .192 | 1 15/16 | 3 7/8 | |
| .207 | 2 1/16 | 4 1/8 | |
| .218 | 2 3/16 | 4 3/8 | |
| .225 | 2 1/4 | 4 1/2 | |
| .234 | 2 5/16 | 4 5/8 | |
| .243 | 2 7/16 | 4 7/8 | |
| .250 | 2 1/2 | 5 | |
| .262 | 2 5/8 | 5 1/4 | |
| .273 | 2 3/4 | 5 1/2 | |
| .283 | 2 13/16 | 5 5/8 | |
| .289 | 2 7/8 | 5 3/4 | |
| .295 | 2 15/16 | 5 7/8 | |
| .306 | 3 1/16 | 6 1/8 | |
| .312 | 3 1/8 | 6 1/4 | |
| .319 | 3 3/16 | 6 3/8 | |
| .331 | 3 5/16 | 6 5/8 | |
| .343 | 3 7/16 | 6 7/8 | |
| .362 | 3 5/8 | 7 1/8 | |
| .375 | 3 3/4 | 7 1/2 | |
| .393 | 3 15/16 | 7 7/8 | |
| .406 | 4 1/16 | 8 1/8 | |
| .421 | 4 7/32 | 8 7/16 | |
| .430 | 4 5/16 | 8 5/8 | |
| .437 | 4 3/8 | 8 3/4 | |
| .453 | 4 17/32 | 9 1/16 | |
| .468 | 4 11/16 | 9 3/8 | |
| .490 | 4 7/8 | 9 3/4 | |
| .500 | 5 | 10 | |
| .531 | 5 5/16 | 10 5/8 | |
| .562 | 5 5/8 | 11 1/4 | |
| .625 | 6 1/4 | .12 1/2 |
Final Words
Garage door springs are essential components that play a crucial role in the smooth operation and safety of your garage door. By understanding the different types of springs, how to measure garage door springs and maintain them, you can ensure its proper functioning for years to come.
Remember to prioritize safety and consult with trusted professionals for all your garage door spring needs to avoid accidents and costly repairs. By prioritizing safety and taking accurate measurements, you can ensure the proper functioning of your garage door.