So, your garage door spring broke. It happens to many homeowners, and while it may seem like a simple fix, choosing the correct garage door spring size is crucial. Installing the wrong spring can damage your door or opener—and worse, it can be dangerous.
Let’s walk through how to correctly identify and measure a garage door torsion spring, and when it’s best to call the pros at Defy innovations.
What Is a Garage Door Spring?
A garage door spring is what helps your door open and close smoothly. It counterbalances the weight of the door, making it feel light enough to lift with one hand.
There are two main types of springs:
- Torsion springs – Installed above the garage door, these twist and untwist to lift and lower the door.
- Extension springs – Located on either side of the door, these expand and contract to do the job.
In British Columbia, torsion springs are the most common.
Why Size Matters
A common mistake? Thinking any spring will work. It won’t.
Your garage door’s weight depends on its material, number of panels, windows, and hardware. The spring must match this weight precisely. When a new door is installed, professionals always select springs recommended by the manufacturer.
If you’re replacing a broken one, you need to measure it correctly.
How to Measure a Garage Door Torsion Spring
To order the right replacement spring, you need four things:
- Wire size
- Inside diameter
- Length
- Wind direction
Let’s break it down.
1. How to Determine the Wire Size
If your spring has color coding, you’re in luck. For example:
- Gold = 0.250 inches
- Red = 0.225 inches
- Yellow = 0.207 inches
No color? No problem.
Here’s how to measure manually:
- Take a tape measure.
- Measure 20 coils of the spring.
- Compare the result with a spring chart.
- For example, if 20 coils measure 4 1/2 inches, your spring is 0.225 inches (red).
👉 Accuracy here is key. A slight mistake in wire size can throw everything off.
2. Measure the Inside Diameter
This one is easy. Most garage door springs in Canada have a 2-inch inner diameter. But not all.
Use a tape measure to check. You don’t even need to remove the spring. Just measure the opening at one end.
3. Measure the Spring Length
Now, measure the length of the spring while it’s closed.
Tip: If the spring is broken, push the pieces together first to remove gaps.
Measure end-to-end in inches. Round to the nearest inch for accuracy. This helps match the spring to your garage door weight.
4. Identify the Spring Wind Direction
This part confuses many homeowners.
Here’s how to tell:
- Red painted end = right-hand wound spring
- No paint or black = left-hand wound spring
Still not sure?
Just check the position:
- If the spring is on the left side, it’s right-hand wound
- If it’s on the right side, it’s left-hand wound
Simple, right?
Be Smart About Safety
You’ve got your measurements. Now, a word of caution:
Torsion springs are dangerous. They’re under heavy tension—even when broken. Mishandling one can cause serious injury.
Please follow these safety tips:
- Don’t touch a wound spring.
- Keep your fingers clear.
- Always wear safety glasses.
- Don’t do this alone—get help.
Or better yet, call the experts at Defy Innovations at 604-328-5365. We’ll do it quickly, safely, and correctly.
How to Know If Your Garage Door Spring Is Broken
Some signs are hard to ignore:
- Your garage door won’t open—or opens only a few inches.
- You hear a loud bang (like a gunshot) from the garage.
- Visually, the spring is split in two or looks loose.
⚠️ Important: Do not use your opener if the spring is broken. You could burn out the motor or damage the opener arm.
Why You Should Balance and Check Your Springs Regularly
Over time, your springs can become unbalanced. This is due to metal fatigue—a natural weakening of the material.
Here’s how to spot it:
- Your opener sounds louder than usual.
- The door feels heavier when opened by hand.
- The door moves unevenly or jerks.
Re-balancing or adjusting your spring early can:
- Prevent damage to your garage door opener
- Avoid costly repairs later
- Extend the life of your entire door system
If in doubt, call us for a garage door inspection.
How Much Does a Garage Door Spring Replacement Cost?
Pricing depends on the spring size and how complex the job is.
At Defy Innovations, spring replacement starts at $149. That includes:
- Installation of a new high-quality spring
- Removal of the broken one
- A service guarantee for your peace of mind
We service all major areas in Metro Vancouver, including Burnaby, Surrey, Coquitlam, and more.
When to Call the Pros
Fixing or measuring a garage door torsion spring isn’t for everyone. If any of this feels too technical—or risky—give us a call at 604-328-5365.
We’re trained to handle all kinds of garage door repairs, from spring replacements to full garage door installations.
Visit Defy Innovations to learn more about our services or request a free quote.
Final Thoughts
When your garage door spring breaks, don’t take shortcuts. Measuring correctly and choosing the right size spring is essential to keep your garage door functioning safely and smoothly.
If you’re in British Columbia and need help with your garage door spring, trust Defy Innovations. We’re here to make sure your garage door runs like new again—quickly, safely, and affordably.