When your garage door suddenly refuses to open, one of the most common causes is a broken garage door spring. These springs carry the full weight of your garage door and allow the opener to function smoothly. If one breaks, your garage door may feel impossible to lift, your opener may strain, and your daily routine can quickly come to a halt.
At Motion Garage Doors, we specialize in garage door spring replacement across Toronto, Etobicoke, Scarborough, North York, East York, and the entire GTA. This guide covers everything you need to know about garage door springs — from signs of failure to costs, safety concerns, and the lifespan of these components.
Why Garage Door Springs Matter
Garage doors weigh between 150 and 300 pounds on average. Without springs, all that weight would fall on your opener or — worse — on you. Springs are designed to counterbalance the door’s weight, allowing it to open and close safely.
There are two main types:
- Torsion springs (mounted on a shaft above the door) – stronger, longer-lasting, and safer.
- Extension springs (mounted along the horizontal tracks) – more affordable but less durable.
In Toronto and the GTA, torsion springs are the preferred choice for both safety and performance.
Why Garage Door Springs Break in Toronto
Toronto’s climate is tough on garage doors. Cold winters, salty slush, and constant freeze–thaw cycles weaken the steel over time. The most common reasons for spring failure include:
- Normal wear and tear (10,000+ cycles over 7–10 years).
- Cold weather makes steel brittle.
- Corrosion from moisture and road salt.
- Improper installation or the wrong spring size.
- Lack of lubrication or skipped maintenance.
The Risks of DIY Spring Replacement
Replacing a garage door spring is not a DIY-friendly job. Torsion springs store hundreds of pounds of torque and can cause severe injury if released incorrectly. Even extension springs — while less dangerous — can become projectiles if they snap.
That’s why every major safety board and manufacturer recommends professional replacement only. Attempting to replace springs yourself could cost you far more than a service call.
How Much Does Garage Door Spring Replacement Cost in Toronto?
On average, garage door spring replacement in Toronto costs between $150 and $350 per spring (parts and labour included). The price varies based on:
- Type of spring (torsion vs. extension).
- Size and weight of your door.
- Whether one or both springs need replacing.
- Additional parts (cables, rollers, bearings).
- Emergency or after-hours service.
Pro Tip: Most double garage doors use two torsion springs. If one breaks, the other is usually close behind — so replacing both is the smarter investment.
How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last?
- Standard springs: 10,000 cycles (about 7–10 years for most Toronto households).
- High-cycle springs: 20,000–50,000 cycles (ideal for busy families, rental units, or commercial use).
Since Toronto’s cold weather accelerates wear, regular lubrication and annual tune-ups are essential to extend spring life.
Garage Door Spring FAQ: Everything Toronto Homeowners Need to Know
Signs include:
The door won’t open, even though the opener runs.
Loud “bang” when the spring snaps.
Visible gap in torsion spring coils.
The extension spring looks stretched or disconnected.
The door feels heavy when lifted manually.
Cables come loose or off the drum.
The top section of the door bends inward when the opener strains.
If you notice these, stop using your opener and call a professional.
Technically, yes — but it’s unsafe. A double door weighs 150–300 lbs without spring support. Lifting it manually requires two strong adults, and forcing the opener can burn out the motor or bend panels. It’s usually best to leave the door closed until repaired.
Yes. Torsion springs carry massive torque and can cause severe injuries. Extension springs, while less hazardous, can still be dangerous without containment cables. Always hire a trained technician.
Typically $150–$350 per spring. Factors include door size, spring type, additional parts, and emergency service. Many technicians recommend replacing both springs at once for balance and safety.
Standard springs: 7–10 years (10,000 cycles).
High-cycle springs: 20,000–50,000 cycles.
Toronto’s cold winters and road salt may shorten lifespan. Annual lubrication helps.
Yes — if you have a two-spring system. Replacing both ensures balance, prevents strain, and avoids another breakdown weeks later.
Torsion: Stronger, longer-lasting, safer.
Extension: Cheaper, but less durable and noisier.
Most modern Toronto homes use torsion springs.
Normal wear.
Cold winters.
Corrosion from salt/moisture.
Improper sizing or poor installation.
Skipped lubrication.
1–2 hours for a professional. Includes spring replacement, hardware inspection, lubrication, and door balancing.
Lubricate springs twice a year (garage door spray only, not WD-40).
Keep tracks clean.
Inspect cables regularly.
Schedule annual tune-ups before winter.
Finnal Thoughts
A broken garage door spring doesn’t have to ruin your day. With professional help, replacement is fast, safe, and affordable.
At Motion Garage Doors, we provide same-day garage door spring replacement across Toronto, Etobicoke, Scarborough, North York, East York, and the entire GTA. Every service includes a full safety inspection, lubrication, and warranty for your peace of mind.
Contact us today to book your spring repair and get your garage door running smoothly again
