Cost to Replace Garage Door Spring: A Safety-First Guide (2025)
Let me be direct: Replacing a garage door spring is one of the most dangerous tasks a homeowner can undertake. The springs are under extreme tension, holding hundreds of pounds of force. A mistake during removal or installation can cause the spring to snap or the door to crash down, leading to severe injury, disability, or even death. This is not a DIY project. The cost of hiring a professional is a small price to pay for your safety.
When you hear a loud “bang!” from your garage, followed by the garage door refusing to open, you’ve likely experienced a broken spring. It’s a common issue, but one that requires immediate and professional attention. This guide will walk you through the real costs involved and how to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
Key Takeaways
- Professional Replacement Cost: Most homeowners pay between $200 and $400 to replace garage door springs, including parts and labor.
- Why Hire a Pro? It’s extremely dangerous. Professionals have the correct tools, training, and experience to handle high-tension springs safely.
- Two Springs are Better Than One: Even if only one spring breaks, it’s highly recommended to replace both at the same time. They have the same age and wear, and the second one is likely to fail soon.
- Key Cost Factors: The price depends on the type of spring (torsion vs. extension), whether you’re replacing one or two, and local labor rates.
Get Your Spring Replacement Estimate: Use our free garage door spring calculator to estimate costs for your specific door size and spring type.
In 20 years of construction work, I’ve seen too many DIY garage door spring accidents result in serious injury. The money you save isn’t worth a trip to the emergency room. These springs store enough energy to lift a 300-pound door thousands of times – that’s industrial-level force that demands professional handling.
Warning Signs Your Spring Needs Replacement
Critical Warning Signs - Stop Using Door Immediately
Garage Door Spring Replacement Cost Breakdown
This is a fairly standard repair, and costs don’t vary wildly unless you have a very large or custom door.
Professional Spring Replacement
This cost includes parts (one or two new springs) and the labor for a professional technician to complete the job safely. Replacing both springs is standard practice.
Cost factors:
- Replacing one vs. two springs
- Spring type: Torsion vs. Extension
- Size and weight of your garage door
- Emergency service fees. Learn more in our [Complete Guide to Emergency Garage Door Repair](/remodeling/garages/emergency-garage-door-repair/)
🧮 Calculate Your Exact Spring Replacement Cost
Every garage door is different. Our garage door spring calculator provides accurate estimates based on:
- ✓ Your door size (single, double, or oversized)
- ✓ Spring type (torsion or extension)
- ✓ Number of springs to replace
- ✓ Emergency service vs. scheduled repair
- ✓ Your specific location for labor rates
Torsion vs. Extension Springs: What’s the Difference?
The type of spring system your door uses is a major factor in the repair.
Torsion Springs
Mounted on a metal bar directly above the garage door opening, these are the modern standard. They are safer and more durable than extension springs.
- Replacement Cost (Pro): $200 - $400
Extension Springs
These run along the sides of the garage door tracks. They are an older system and are more dangerous when they break, as they can snap and fly off like a missile if not secured with a safety cable.
- Replacement Cost (Pro): $180 - $350 (Slightly cheaper, but less common on newer homes).
Your garage door is a complete system. To learn about all its components and how they work together, visit our Complete Guide to Building & Remodeling.
How to Hire a Qualified Technician
Since we’ve established that this is absolutely a professional-only job, it’s crucial to know how to find a qualified technician who will do the work safely and correctly.
Hiring a Pro Checklist
When calling for service, specifically mention that you have a broken spring. This helps the company send a technician with the right parts and tools, potentially saving you time and money on a return visit.
