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

Introduction:
Replacing or ordering a garage door torsion spring requires precise measurements. One wrong number can lead to buying the wrong spring. Use this visual guide to measure your springs accurately and safely.

Step 1: Safety First – Gather Your Tools

What you need:

A tape measure

A ladder

pencil and paper

Winders (if needed for tension, but for measuring only, do not unwind)

Step 2: Identify the Spring Type

First, look at your spring. Is it mounted above the door (Torsion Spring) or on the sides (Extension Spring)?

Torsion Spring: A metal shaft runs through the center.

Extension Spring: A long, stretchy spring above the horizontal tracks.

Step 3: Measure the Length (Torsion Spring)

For a torsion spring, you need the “wind” and the length.

Measure the length of the spring from one end of the coils to the other.

Do not include the cones (the twisted metal ends that hold the spring).

Step 4: Measure the Inside Diameter

This is the width of the hollow center.

Measure the distance across the inside of the spring coils.

Standard sizes are usually 1 3/4″, 2″, or 2 1/4″.

Step 5: Determine the Wire Size

This is the thickness of the metal wire.

Press your tape measure into the coils to measure the gap.

The easiest way is to count 10, 20, or 30 coils and measure the distance. Then divide by the number of coils.

Example: If 20 coils measure 5 inches, your wire size is 0.250 inches.

Step 6: Check the Wind Direction

Stand directly in front of the spring and look at the end of the spring.

Right Hand Wind: The wire points to the right.

Left Hand Wind: The wire points to the left.

Step 7: Extension Springs (Alternative)

If you have extension springs (on the sides):

Measure the Length when the spring is fully relaxed (taken off the door).

Measure the Inside Diameter.

Look for a color code on the ends of the spring (this often indicates the weight rating).

Pro Tip: Record Your Findings

Write down your numbers like this:

Length: 30 inches

Inside Diameter: 2 inches

Wire Size: .250 inches

Wind: Right

Warning

Do not attempt to loosen or remove the springs yourself. These springs are under high tension and can cause serious injury. Always call a professional for installation.