Garage door torsion springs are used to make closing and opening sectional garage doors easy. There are 2 springs attached on each side of the door. These springs are attached to a metal shaft right above the opening of garage door, running across the top of the garage lengthwise. Based on the system, the shaft may go through the center of the springs or house the spring at times.  The counter balance system of these springs is made up of two firmly wound springs on a steel shaft with cable drums on either end.  The springs balance the weight of the door by exerting pressure to the drums at the end. The springs loosen and tighten as the door is shut and open to form a well balanced system.

These springs come in five different designs including: torque master, standard, Easy set, mini-warehouse and steel rolling door springs. The most commonly used type of torsion springs for garage doors is the standard one. For residential garages one or two standard springs are used. If the door is not very heavy, a single spring is used. When one spring is used it is attached to the spring anchor bracket in the center of the door on the shaft just above the door. If two springs are used on the door, they are attached to the anchor bracket of the spring located above the center of the door. It is better to use two springs instead of one so that if in case one gets damaged, the other will prevent the door from falling and causing damage.

As with other mechanical equipments at home, garage door torsion springs require regular checking and maintenance to stay in proper working condition. Poor garage door maintenance, loose components or tracks reduce the life of these springs. Even if your garage door has been installed for only a few years, it is advisable to have the torsion springs used for it checked regularly by a professional. Also, if the garage door that you have has two torsion springs and one is damaged it is advisable to replace both at once. If possible have a professional garage door installer check on the torsion springs annually to avert potential hazards caused by damaged springs.