2026-09-10 7 min read
In our years serving Novato, we've seen this problem again and again: a homeowner hears a loud bang from the garage, and suddenly the door won't budge. Nine times out of ten, it's a snapped spring. The question isn't always whether you need help (you do), but whether to repair the existing spring or bite the bullet and replace it. Here's what 15 years on the trucks has taught me.
Garage door springs carry all the weight. Your door weighs 300 to 400 pounds, and springs are engineered to counterbalance that load so your opener doesn't strain itself to death. There are two main types: torsion springs (the coiled ones above the door) and extension springs (the ones on either side). Both fail eventually.
When a spring snaps, the door becomes a dead weight. Your opener can't lift it. Trying to force it risks burning out the motor and damaging the door itself. This is non-negotiable: stop using the door and call someone who knows what they're doing.
Springs last roughly 7 to 9 years under normal use. That's about 10,000 to 15,000 open/close cycles. If you're opening and closing your door multiple times daily, you'll hit that limit faster. Salt air near the coast (we're not far from Marin's coastal areas) accelerates corrosion, shortening that window.
Here's where homeowners often get confused. You cannot repair a snapped spring. Springs work under tension. Once they fail, they're done. What you *can* do is replace the failed spring.
The real decision is whether to replace just the broken spring or both springs at the same time.
Single spring replacement costs less upfront. If one torsion spring fails, you could replace just that one. But here's the catch: the other spring is living on borrowed time. It's the same age, same wear pattern, same material. Replacing a single spring now means you'll likely need the second one replaced within months. You'll pay for a service call twice.
Both springs replacement costs more today but saves money and headaches long term. When we do this job, we're looking at a single visit, one service charge, and peace of mind knowing both springs are fresh. Most of our Novato customers choose this route once they understand the math.
**Need garage door springs in Novato today?** Call 415-965-6754. we cover same-day service across the area.
Spring replacement isn't a DIY situation. Springs are under extreme tension. Improper removal or installation has caused serious injuries. We've seen it. Don't risk it.
A professional spring replacement takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on whether it's torsion or extension, and whether you're doing one or both. If you call early in the day, same-day service is usually available here in Novato. We'll bring the right parts, tools, and experience.
The cost varies. A single torsion spring replacement typically runs $200 to $400. Both springs might be $400 to $600, depending on spring quality and your door's specifications. Extension springs cost less than torsion, usually $150 to $300 per spring. Get a free estimate before committing. We'll inspect the whole system and tell you exactly what's needed.
Check our garage door repair cost guide for a realistic breakdown of what homeowners in your area actually pay.
You can't stop springs from failing eventually, but you can extend their life. Regular maintenance matters. Lubricate springs annually with a silicone-based garage door lubricant. Check for signs of wear: rust, uneven gaps, or a door that's slightly off balance. Avoid slamming the door. Gentle use keeps everything healthier longer.
If you're curious about the mechanics, our guide on how garage door springs work covers the full picture of why they fail and what you can do about it.
Don't live with a broken spring. A door that won't open strands your car, creates a security gap, and puts stress on your opener. The fix is straightforward, affordable, and fast.
Call Garage Door Novato at 415-965-6754 or schedule a free quote online. We'll assess your springs, tell you exactly what needs to happen, and get you back in business. Same-day appointments available for most calls.
Your garage door is the largest moving object in your home. Treating it right keeps everything running smooth.
How do I know if my spring is broken? The door won't open, or it opens slowly and unevenly. You may hear a loud bang or snap from the garage. The door might hang crooked. Never force a broken spring situation, as it risks damaging the door or opener.
Can I replace just one spring? Technically yes, but not recommended. Both springs are the same age and wear. Replacing one means the second will likely fail within months, costing you another service call. Replace both at once for better value.
How much does spring replacement cost? Single torsion spring, $200 to $400. Both torsion springs, $400 to $600. Extension springs run $150 to $300 per spring. Costs vary by spring type and quality. Call 415-965-6754 for a specific estimate.
How long do garage door springs last? Typically 7 to 9 years or about 10,000 to 15,000 cycles. Coastal humidity and salt air shorten lifespan. Heavy daily use also accelerates wear. Regular maintenance helps, but replacement is inevitable.
Is spring replacement an emergency? It's urgent. A broken spring leaves your door inoperable and your garage unsecured. We offer same-day service for most calls in Novato. Contact us immediately if your door won't open.