Don't touch a broken spring, and don't release the opener on an open door. Both spring types store a lot of force. If you heard a bang or see a gap or a stretched spring, leave the door alone and request help. See is it safe to open a garage door with a broken spring?
Knowing which spring your door uses helps you read a quote and understand what's broken. It doesn't mean you should work on it.
How to tell which spring you have
| Torsion spring | Extension spring | |
|---|---|---|
| Where it is | On a metal bar above the closed door | Along each side of the door, beside the horizontal track |
| How it works | Twists to counterbalance the door | Stretches and contracts as the door moves |
| What a break looks like | A visible gap in the coil, often with a loud bang | A stretched or hanging spring on one side |
| Cost per spring (Angi, Raleigh) | $75–$150 | $50–$100 |
Angi notes both types are common on sectional doors, tilt-up (one-piece) doors use extension springs, and roll-up doors use torsion springs.
Which is better?
Angi says torsion springs have longer lifespans and are generally considered safer, and extension springs are cheaper. Angi also says the older, smaller garage styles common in Raleigh's historic neighborhoods can raise replacement cost, especially when upgrading to a more modern spring style.
What replacement and conversion cost
| Job | Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Replace one extension spring | $50–$100 | Angi, Raleigh spring guide (updated July 9, 2026) |
| Replace one torsion spring | $75–$150 | Angi, Raleigh spring guide |
| Single-door spring job overall | $150–$350 | Angi, Raleigh spring guide |
| Convert torsion to extension | $250–$500 | Angi, Raleigh spring guide |
| Convert extension to torsion | $400–$800 | Angi, Raleigh spring guide |
| Labor | $70–$110 per hour | Angi, Raleigh spring guide |
These are published third-party estimates, not quotes from Raleigh Garage Door SOS or any company we refer to. Angi's Raleigh guide gives an average of $246 and a range of $147–$344 for spring replacement overall. The company you're connected with sets its own price.
Questions to ask about a spring quote
- Is my door torsion or extension, and what are you replacing?
- Is the quote for one spring or both?
- What cycle rating do the new springs have?
- Does the price include checking cables, rollers, and balance?
- What's the warranty on the springs and on labor?
Related guides
- Spring replacement cost
- Signs of a broken spring
- Should you replace a spring yourself?
- Door stuck open
Getting help in the Triangle
Send one request and we'll pass it to one independent garage door company that serves your ZIP code. Say whether you heard a bang or can see a gap. See broken spring repair or how it works.
Raleigh Garage Door SOS is a free referral brand. We're not a garage door company, and the company you're connected with sets its own price.
Sources
- Angi, "How Much Does Garage Door Spring Replacement Cost in Raleigh, NC?" (updated July 9, 2026)
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between torsion and extension springs?
Torsion springs are mounted on a bar above the door and twist to lift it. Extension springs run along the sides of the door, parallel to the horizontal tracks, and stretch and contract. Angi says torsion springs have longer lifespans and are generally considered safer, while extension springs are cheaper.
Which type is more common in Raleigh?
Angi's Raleigh guide says extension springs are common in Raleigh homes. Both types are common on sectional doors, so check yours.
How much does it cost to replace each type in Raleigh?
Angi's Raleigh spring guide (updated July 9, 2026) lists $50–$100 for an extension spring and $75–$150 for a torsion spring, per spring. A single-door job is listed at $150–$350. Labor averages $70 to $110 per hour.
Can I switch from extension to torsion springs?
Yes, but it's a bigger job. Angi's Raleigh guide lists $400–$800 to convert extension to torsion and $250–$500 to convert torsion to extension, because the old parts have to be removed and a different system installed.
Does humidity affect springs?
Angi's Raleigh guide says Raleigh's high humidity can shorten the lifespan of garage door springs.
Should I replace both springs when one breaks?
Angi recommends it. Replacing both at once keeps the door balanced, and a contractor will likely give a better price for doing both in one visit. See spring replacement cost.