7 min read A2Z Garage Doors
Last Tuesday, a homeowner in Cotati called in a panic. His garage door wouldn't budge. One torsion spring had snapped clean in half. After 15 years on the trucks, I can tell you this: a broken spring is the single most common emergency we handle. The good news? It's fixable fast, and understanding the cost upfront removes the guesswork.
Your garage door weighs 300 to 500 pounds. Springs carry that entire load. When a torsion or extension spring fails, your door becomes a dead weight. You'll hear a loud bang or crack. The door won't open, or it'll slam shut on its own. Never force it. A broken spring can't support the door safely, and you risk injury or further damage to the opener.
Springs last 7 to 9 years under normal use, depending on cycles and climate. Cotati's humidity and temperature swings can speed up wear. If your door is older, don't wait for failure. A preventive inspection catches weakened springs before they snap.
Torsion springs and extension springs do the same job differently. Torsion springs sit above the door, twisting to lift it. Extension springs run along the sides, stretching and contracting. Most residential doors in Cotati use torsion springs because they're more durable and safer.
The type affects your cost. A torsion spring replacement runs $150 to $300 per spring, including labor. Extension springs cost $100 to $200 each. Most doors have one or two springs. High-cycle doors (like commercial units) may have multiple springs, which increases the estimate.
When you call for a free estimate, we'll identify your spring type and give you an exact price. No surprises. Learn more about how springs work and typical costs in our detailed spring guide.
Here's what separates a quick fix from days without your garage door. Response time matters. A broken spring isn't something you patch temporarily. You need a replacement, not a Band Aid.
**Need garage door springs in Cotati today?** Call 510-949-3486. we cover same-day service across the area.
When you call us, we dispatch a truck with springs in stock. We carry standard and heavy-duty torsion springs for most residential doors. Most jobs take 45 minutes to an hour once we arrive. You're back in business the same day. That beats waiting three days for another company.
Spring replacement isn't just the spring. Labor is the bigger piece. A technician has to safely lower the door, remove the old spring, install the new one, and test everything. That expertise keeps you and your family safe.
Here's a realistic breakdown: - Torsion spring (part): $80 to $150, Labor (one spring): $100 to $150, Two springs: add $50 to $100
Total: $230 to $400 for a single spring replacement. Two springs typically run $350 to $550. For a full pricing breakdown by door type and size, see our garage door cost guide.
Don't skimp on this. Cheap springs fail fast. We use quality parts backed by warranties. You're protecting your investment in your home.
A snapped spring is an emergency. A weakened spring is a warning. Regular maintenance catches both. We inspect springs during routine tune ups, checking for rust, wear, and tension loss.
If you haven't had your door serviced in over a year, schedule one now. Read our maintenance schedule guide to stay ahead. A $100 inspection today prevents a $400 emergency call tomorrow.
Springs aren't the only wear item. Cables, rollers, and hinges all wear together. A full maintenance check covers everything.
A snapped spring means your door is unsafe to use. Don't try DIY fixes. Springs are under extreme tension. A mistake can cause serious injury. Call a licensed technician.
Contact us now to schedule a same-day estimate or call 510-949-3486. We serve Cotati and the surrounding North Bay area. We'll diagnose the problem, give you a fair price, and have your door working again fast.
Don't wait for a spring to fail. If your door is over 7 years old or showing signs of struggle, we can inspect it today. One call solves the problem.
How long do garage door springs typically last? Most torsion and extension springs last 7 to 9 years with regular use. Cycles matter more than years. A door that opens and closes 4 times daily wears springs faster than one used twice daily. Maintenance and climate also affect lifespan.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself? Springs are under extreme tension (up to 200 pounds of force). A slip or miscalculation causes serious injury or death. Always hire a licensed technician. It's not worth the risk, and professional replacement includes a warranty.
Why does my spring need replacement instead of repair? A snapped or severely weakened spring cannot be repaired. Springs either work or they don't. Replacement is the only safe option. Attempting a temporary fix creates a safety hazard for you and your family.
How quickly can you replace a broken spring in Cotati? We offer same-day service for most spring replacements. Call before 2 p.m. and we typically arrive the same day. Emergency calls after hours are available. Most jobs take 45 minutes to one hour.
What's the difference between torsion and extension springs? Torsion springs twist above the door. Extension springs stretch along the sides. Torsion springs are safer and more common in residential doors. Both types fail eventually and require professional replacement.