How to Install a Garage Door Spring Safely and Correctly
Published Date: Nov 5, 2025
When your garage door spring breaks, replacing it yourself might sound like a good way to save a few bucks. After all, springs are just springs, right? Not exactly. Garage door springs, whether they are torsion or extension, are under immense pressure. They’re what make your garage door feel like it weighs 20 pounds instead of 200. Mishandle it, and it can go from a fix-it project to a serious hazard. That’s why this guide exists — to give you a clear, safe understanding of how to install a garage door spring and, more importantly, to help you know when it’s time to call trained technicians at 24H Garage Doors.
How to Install New Garage Door Springs
The first step is to identify the type of spring your garage door uses. There are two main kinds: extension springs and torsion springs. Both types require careful handling, no matter your experience level. Incorrect installation can lead to serious accidents or damage to your door. When you’re ready to learn how to install new garage door springs, remember that safety is the most important part of the job.
Before you consider installing a new spring, it’s worth understanding the common problems. For more information, read our guide on how to fix a garage door spring.
How to Install Garage Door Extension Springs
Extension springs sit on each side of your garage door and run parallel to the horizontal tracks. They use a system of cables and pulleys to stretch and lift the door.
How to install garage door extension springs? Here are the basics you need to know.
- Before getting started, disconnect the opener and lock the door in the down position. This is a must-do safety step.
- Each extension spring includes a safety cable that runs through its center. This cable is vital — it keeps the spring from snapping out dangerously if it breaks. Always feed the safety cable through the new spring before making any attachments.
- Extension springs connect to a pulley system on one side and a stationary bracket on the other. The lift cables run from the bottom of the door to the pulley. Getting the tension and attachments correct is essential for the door to operate evenly. If one side is too tight or too loose, the door will bind and may become crooked.
Once everything is in place and the tension feels balanced, test the door slowly by hand. Still not sure if everything’s set up right? You can always call the team at 24H Garage Doors — we’re here when a spring fix turns into a bigger project.
How to Install a Garage Door Torsion Spring
Torsion springs are mounted on a metal shaft directly above the garage door and pack a lot of power. Installing one takes special tools and extreme caution. When you want to know how to install a garage door torsion spring, keep in mind the serious risks involved. In most cases, it’s much safer to let a trained technician handle it.
- Winding Bars: Never use makeshift tools. Torsion springs must be wound using proper winding bars, which fit into the winding cone at each end of the spring. These bars are critical for safety — anything else can slip and lead to serious injury.
- Winding Process: You’ll need to use both winding bars, inserting one and then moving the other to create tension. The number of turns is specific to your door’s weight and height. If you don’t apply the correct number of turns, the door will not balance properly. If you want to know more about the precise tension, here’s some information on how many turns a garage door spring needs.
- Setting the Spring: Once the spring is wound, you need to tighten the set screws to lock the tension in place. The winding bars are still under heavy pressure at this point — one slip and they could snap back forcefully, causing serious injury.
Final Thoughts on How to Install a Garage Door Spring
Working with garage door springs is extremely dangerous for anyone who is not trained for the job. The high-tension components can cause serious injury or damage to your property if handled incorrectly. While it’s helpful to understand the mechanics, calling in a trained professional is the safest and most reliable way to go.
The experts at 24H Garage Doors know how to install new garage door springs safely. If you’re ready to skip the risk and get it done right, just give us a call — we’re here when you need us.
