Garage Door Springs in Larkspur: When to Repair vs. Replace (and Save Money)
2026-07-06 8 min read
If your garage door won't open or closes too fast, a broken spring is almost always the culprit. Garage door springs in Larkspur typically cost between $150 and $400 to replace, depending on type and whether both springs need work. The real question isn't the price tag, though. It's whether you should fix what's broken or replace the whole system before it fails catastrophically.
What's Actually Happening Inside Your Door
Most residential garage doors use one of two spring types: torsion springs or extension springs. Torsion springs sit above the door and twist to support the weight. Extension springs run along the sides and stretch. Both do the same job. Both fail the same way: sudden, complete loss of function. See our guide on preparing your garage door for winter: a complete checklist.
Springs last roughly 7 to 9 years under normal use. That's about 10,000 to 15,000 open/close cycles. If you've had your door installed longer than a decade, or if you're using it more than the average household, a snapped spring isn't a question of if, but when.
The difference between torsion and extension springs matters for your wallet. Torsion springs cost more upfront but last longer and are safer. Extension springs are cheaper but fail more often and present higher injury risk. If you're replacing springs on an older door, this is worth considering before you commit to repair alone.
Single Spring vs. Both Springs: The Hidden Cost Trap
Here's where most homeowners overspend without realizing it. When one spring snaps, the second is usually close behind. They wear together. Replacing just the broken one means you'll call us back in 6 to 18 months for the other.
Replacing both springs at the same time costs roughly 60 percent more than a single replacement. But it saves you a second service call, two separate labor fees, and the frustration of a stuck door twice. On a $300 repair, that's the difference between $300 now and $600 in scattered payments.
When you get an estimate, always ask: "How much to replace both springs today?" You might save money in the long run. For a free estimate on spring replacement, schedule a same-day quote with us.
**Need garage door springs in Larkspur today?** Call 510-949-3486. We cover same-day service across the area.
Repair Cost vs. Replacement Cost: When New Makes Sense
A single torsion spring repair runs $200 to $350. An extension spring runs $150 to $250. If your door is less than 5 years old and everything else works fine, repair is the right call.
But if your door is 10+ years old, the springs are just one of many aging parts. The opener might be next. The panels could need attention. Weather stripping wears out. When you add up deferred maintenance, a full replacement often costs less per year than repeated repairs. We've written more detail on this in our guide to garage door spring replacement in Larkspur before your door fails.
Check the age of your door. If it's original to your home and you've never replaced major components, springs are a signal. You're entering the replacement window whether you like it or not.
DIY Spring Replacement: Why Not to Try It
Springs are under extreme tension. A snapped spring can cause serious injury. We see it happen. A homeowner tries to save $200 and ends up in an emergency room with a crushed hand or worse.
This isn't like changing a car battery. The springs on your door store enough energy to launch a bowling ball. Professionals have the right tools, experience, and liability insurance. You don't. The cost difference isn't worth the risk.
If budget is tight, call us for an estimate. We'll tell you honestly whether repair or replacement makes sense. We're not here to upsell you.
Seasonal Timing and Larkspur Weather
Garage doors in Larkspur face wet winters and dry summers. Humidity and temperature swings stress springs faster than stable climates. If you notice your door acting sluggish in winter or stiff in summer, springs are likely fatigued.
Spring replacement makes the most sense before winter hits. A failed spring in December is a bigger headache than one in July. Moisture and cold make repair delays costly. Get ahead of the season.
Next Steps: Get Your Springs Inspected Today
Don't wait for a complete failure. A professional inspection catches wear before catastrophe. We can assess both springs, tell you their age, and give you a real cost estimate for repair or replacement.
Call Garage Door Company Larkspur at 510-949-3486 or contact us to book a same-day inspection. We'll walk through your options without pressure.
For more on keeping your door running smoothly year-round, read our full garage door maintenance guide for Larkspur homeowners.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do garage door springs last? Garage door springs typically last 7 to 9 years with normal use, which translates to about 10,000 to 15,000 opening cycles. Frequency of use, climate, and whether you have torsion or extension springs all affect lifespan. Springs in humid coastal areas like Larkspur may wear faster.
Is it cheaper to replace one spring or both? Replacing both springs at once costs about 60 percent more than one, but saves a second service call later. Since the second spring usually fails within months, replacing both upfront often saves money overall. Get a quote for both to compare.
What's the difference between torsion and extension springs? Torsion springs sit above the door and twist to support weight, lasting longer and safer. Extension springs run along the sides and stretch, costing less but failing sooner and presenting higher injury risk. Most modern doors use torsion springs.
Can I replace garage door springs myself? No. Springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury or death if mishandled. Professional replacement requires specialized tools and training. The cost difference is not worth the risk.
How much does spring replacement cost in Larkspur? Single spring replacement typically runs $150 to $400 depending on type and whether one or both springs need work. Get a free estimate by calling 510-949-3486 to understand your specific cost.