It’s a cold Vancouver morning. You hit the garage remote—and nothing happens. The door won’t budge.
You step out to investigate, coffee in hand, frustrated and cold. A technician later tells you: “Your torsion spring is the issue.”
Torsion springs are incredibly popular in garage doors across Vancouver, but they’re not without flaws. If you’ve ever wondered what the downsides of torsion springs are — or whether they’re right for your home — this guide is for you.
Let’s break down everything you need to know.
What Are Torsion Springs in Garage Doors?
Before we dive into the cons, it’s helpful to know what torsion springs actually do.
These tightly wound coils sit above your garage door and help lift and lower it smoothly. Unlike extension springs, which stretch and retract, torsion springs use torque to handle the door’s weight.
Most modern homes in Vancouver use torsion spring systems because they’re:
- Quieter
- More durable
- Safer (when installed correctly)
But wait — they’re not perfect.
But First… Why Should You Care?
Torsion springs are under extreme tension. If they break, they can:
- Damage property
- Injure you or your family
- Leave your door stuck halfway
Understanding their limitations helps you make smarter choices for repairs, replacements, or preventive maintenance—especially in coastal areas like Kitsilano or West Vancouver, where salt and moisture add to wear.
1. Higher Upfront Cost
Torsion springs cost more than extension springs
The initial cost of a torsion spring setup is higher due to:
- Precision-engineered parts
- Professional installation
- Steel shaft and mounting parts
If you’re on a tight budget, this could be a concern. While they last longer, the initial expense is something many homeowners in Burnaby or Richmond aren’t prepared for.
According to The Home Depot’s garage door buying guide, torsion systems can add 15–25% to your garage setup cost.
2. Requires Professional Installation & Repair
DIY Is Dangerous — Seriously
Unlike extension springs, torsion systems are not DIY-friendly. These springs are wound tightly and installed with specialized tools.
Trying to repair or adjust them yourself can lead to:
- Severe hand or eye injuries
- Garage door collapse
- Damaged opener systems
If you live in Vancouver’s dense neighborhoods like Mount Pleasant or Yaletown, finding space to DIY this is even harder.
✅ Always hire a local expert. Here’s how we handle spring replacements safely.
3. Difficult to Diagnose Issues Early
Torsion springs often show no clear warning signs before failing. You may not notice an issue until:
- The door won’t lift
- The opener strains
- You hear a sudden loud “bang”
By then, you’re already facing a costly emergency call.
Tip: Regular maintenance is critical — especially in coastal Vancouver weather, which accelerates wear on metal components.
4. Not Ideal for Low Headroom Garages
Torsion springs require space above your garage door for mounting. In homes with:
- Low ceilings
- Beams or piping overhead
- Tight vertical space
…you may not be able to install them without custom hardware or low-clearance kits.
This is a common issue in older homes across East Vancouver, where garages were built smaller.
Before You Move On…
Thinking of upgrading to torsion springs or replacing a worn one?
Hold off just a second — there’s one more thing you should know…
5. Coastal Conditions Accelerate Wear
Vancouver Weather Can Be Brutal on Metal
Torsion springs are metal-based, and Vancouver’s frequent rain, moisture, and coastal air can cause:
- Rust and corrosion
- Shortened spring life
- Premature snapping
Without proper galvanized coating or weather-rated parts, your springs might not last the full 7–10 years they’re designed for.
If you’re near Jericho Beach or North Vancouver, your system needs extra protection.
Are Torsion Springs Still Worth It?
Despite the disadvantages, torsion springs offer:
- Greater balance
- Longer lifespan
- Safer failure mechanics
But they do need expert installation and care, especially in climate-sensitive areas like Vancouver.
👉 Curious how long your spring will last? Check out our garage spring maintenance tips.
Call Us for Garage Door Spring Repairs in Vancouver
Whether your spring just snapped or you’re hearing strange noises, we’ve got you covered.
At Garage Door Vancity, we offer:
- Emergency spring repair across Vancouver
- Coastal-grade torsion spring replacements
- Licensed, insured local technicians
📞 Need help? Call Us Now: 604-328-5365
Or book a fast inspection online
FAQs: Torsion Springs (Schema Optimized)
Q1: Are torsion springs better than extension springs?
A: Yes, torsion springs are generally more durable and safer—but they’re also more expensive and harder to install.
Q2: Can I replace a torsion spring myself?
A: No. These springs are extremely dangerous to handle without the right tools and training.
Q3: How long do torsion springs last in Vancouver?
A: On average 7–10 years, but coastal weather can reduce this to 5–6 years without maintenance.
Q4: Why did my torsion spring snap without warning?
A: Most torsion springs fail suddenly due to metal fatigue or rust. They rarely show visible damage beforehand.
Q5: How do I know if I need to replace both springs?
A: If one fails, it’s recommended to replace both to maintain door balance and prevent uneven wear.