Summary:
If you’re trying to decide whether to replace one garage door spring or both, the answer isn’t always “replace both.” It depends on how old the springs are, how much they’ve been used, and whether the remaining spring is still in good condition.
If both springs were installed together several years ago, however, replacing them as a pair usually makes more sense. Here’s why.
How Do Two Garage Door Springs Work?
Many residential garage doors use a dual spring system, with two springs sharing the work of lifting and balancing the door.
Because the springs operate together, they generally go through the same number of cycles. If one breaks after years of use, the other has experienced much of the same wear.
That doesn’t automatically mean the second spring needs to be replaced. It does mean its condition should be checked before deciding.
When Does Replacing One Spring Make Sense?
There are situations where replacing only the broken spring is reasonable.
The clearest example is when the other spring is relatively new. Maybe one spring was replaced recently and the second one failed later. Replacing a spring that has plenty of service life left doesn’t necessarily add value.
Replacing one may also make sense when:
- The door is relatively new
- The remaining spring has significantly fewer cycles
- The springs were installed at different times
- An inspection shows the other spring is still in good condition
In these cases, you may not need to pay for two new springs simply because one has failed.
Why Do Professionals Usually Replace Both?
When both springs are the same age, we generally recommend replacing them together.
If they’ve opened and closed the door thousands of times, the second spring has likely seen similar wear. It may fail soon after the first, leading to another repair and service call.
Replacing both gives you a matched pair with similar remaining life. It also helps keep the door properly balanced.
What Does It Cost to Replace One vs. Both?
Naturally, replacing one spring costs less upfront. You’re paying for one replacement spring rather than two.
But the difference isn’t always as large as homeowners expect because labor is involved in either repair. If the second spring fails shortly afterward, you’ll also pay for another visit and another installation.
That’s why we look at spring replacement cost as a long-term decision, not just today’s invoice.
If both springs are old, replacing them together may cost more now but save you another repair expense later.
How Long Will the Other Spring Last?
A garage door spring’s lifespan is measured in cycles, not years. One cycle means the door opens and closes once. Frequent use means reaching that limit sooner.
Your garage door spring lifespan also depends on the door’s weight, spring quality, installation, and wear.
If one spring breaks after years of use, the other may not be far behind. An inspection can show its condition, but it can’t predict exactly when it will fail.
Does Replacing Both Help the Door Perform Better?
Yes. Two properly matched springs help keep the door balanced and moving smoothly. They can also reduce strain on the opener and other parts.
In Miami, Aventura, Pinecrest, Miramar, North Miami, Naples, and other parts of South Florida, regular use and weather can add to spring wear. Regular inspections can help catch problems early.
When Should You Replace One or Both?
Here’s the practical way to look at it.
Replace one when the other spring is newer, was recently replaced, or has been inspected and found to be in good condition.
Replace both when the springs are the same age, both have significant wear, or one has failed after years of normal use.
If you’re unsure, you don’t have to guess. Joe’s Doors can inspect the spring system and explain why we’d recommend replacing one or both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to replace one garage door spring?
Yes, the upfront price is lower. But if the second spring is old, replacing both can be more economical than paying for another service call when it fails.
Should both springs be the same size?
They should be properly matched to the garage door and spring system. The correct spring depends on factors such as the door’s weight and the existing setup.
Can I replace just the broken spring?
Sometimes. If the remaining spring is newer and in good condition, replacing only the broken one can be a sensible option. The system should be assessed before making that decision.
Making the Right Call for Your Garage Door
We don’t believe every broken spring automatically means replacing two. If one spring is relatively new, replacing only the failed spring can be the right choice.
But when both springs have been working together for years, replacing them as a pair usually gives you better balance, similar spring life, and fewer chances of another repair shortly afterward.
If you’re deciding whether to replace one garage door spring or both, call (954) 799-9787 for a professional recommendation from Joe’s Doors.
