Step-by-Step Guide on How to Measure Garage Door Springs

Measuring garage door springs accurately is essential for proper repair or replacement. These springs hold the balance of your garage doors. Therefore, wrong measurements can lead to unsafe operations and damage your garage door.

We have come up with a short guide to describe step-by-step how to measure garage door springs like a pro.

Why it's Important to Measure Garage Doors Accurately?

Garage door springs counterbalance the door's weight and allow it to open and close smoothly. If the spring's size is incorrect, your door may not stay open or close properly. It can also lead to damage to other components.

The lifespan of the spring could be also reduced. Therefore, understanding how to measure torsion springs for garage doors is crucial to avoid these issues.

Tools You Will Required:

How to Measure Garage Door Springs?

Step 1: Identify the Type of Spring

There are two main types of garage door springs: Torsion and Extension Springs.

Torsion springs are located above the garage door and mounted on a metal rod whereas extension Springs are found on the sides of the door, running parallel to the tracks.

This guide focuses on measuring torsion springs for garage doors, but the general principles apply to both types.

Step 2: Measure the Spring’s Wind Direction

Torsion springs are either left-wound or right-wound. Right-wound springs are used on the left side of the door and the left-wound springs are used on the right side.

To identify the wind direction, look at the end of the spring. If the coils move in a clockwise direction, it's a right-wound spring. If they move counterclockwise, it’s a left-wound spring. 

Wind direction is also indicated by the color of the winding cones and drums on most springs. For instance, red denotes a right-wound spring while black denotes a left-wound spring.

Finding the wind's direction can be confusing sometimes, therefore contact our team today and we will help you our best.

Step 3: Measure the Spring's Length

Close the garage door and disconnect the power to prevent accidental activation. Use a measuring tape to measure the total length of the spring from end to end. For broken springs, measure each section separately and add them together.

Step 4: Determine the Inside Diameter

The inside diameter is often printed on the spring’s stationary cone. If it's not visible, remove the spring carefully (if necessary). Measure the inside diameter of the spring using a tape measure.

Measure the inside diameter to 1/16” of an inch for torsion springs. For garage door residential springs, the usual inner diameter is 1 3/4” or 2”, but still you should confirm it by measuring.

Step 5: Count the Coils

To measure the coil size:

• Mark one coil with chalk or a marker.

• Count 10 or 20 coils along the spring.

• Measure the distance covered by these coils.

• Divide the measurement by the number of coils to determine the wire gauge.

For example: If 10 coils measure 2.5 inches, the wire gauge is 0.25 inches.

This chart shows measurements (10 and 20 coils) and colors used for residential spring grades. For custom sizes, contact a professional to ensure the spring fits your garage door.

Now, measure the overall length of the spring to the nearest quarter inch and you are done.

Safety Tips When Measuring Garage Door Springs

• Wear Protective Gear: Springs can be under high tension and may snap.

• Disconnect Power: Prevent accidental door activation during the process.

• Consult a Professional: If you are unsure about the process or safety, seek help from a garage door technician.

Click here to read: How to safely install garage door torsion springs?

Final Thoughts

By following these steps, you can confidently handle measuring garage door springs and ensure a smooth replacement process. When in doubt, consult a professional to maintain the safety and functionality of your garage door.

SGD Springs offers premium-quality torsion springs designed for durability and reliability with outstanding customer service. Trust SGD Springs for expert guidance and quality products to keep your garage door running smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do you measure a garage door spring for replacement?

Follow the steps outlined above, focusing on length, inside diameter, wire size, and wind direction. These measurements ensure you order the correct replacement spring.

2. What happens if I measure the spring incorrectly?

An improperly sized spring can result in unsafe operation, door imbalance, and premature wear of components.