At Garage Door Specialist, one of the most common questions we hear from commercial clients is: “How long will my garage door springs last?” The answer depends on a few factors – the type of spring, how often the door is used, and the environment where it operates.
Why Commercial Springs Last Longer Than Residential
Commercial garage doors are built for heavy-duty use, and their springs are no exception. While residential springs are designed for moderate, everyday operation, commercial springs are typically larger, heavier, and made to handle higher cycle counts. This means they can last years longer than residential springs in normal conditions.
The difference comes down to:
- Material strength – Commercial springs are made from thicker, more durable steel.
- Cycle ratings – They’re designed to open and close thousands more times before wearing out.
- Load capacity – They’re built to handle heavier, reinforced commercial doors.
When the Environment Shortens the Lifespan
While inland commercial springs can last a long time, springs in coastal areas face extra challenges. The combination of salty air and high humidity speeds up corrosion and weakens the steel over time.
In our coastal service areas, especially on stilt houses at the beach, we often see springs that last only three to five years before needing replacement. Constant exposure to wind, salt, and moisture takes a toll, even on high-quality parts.
Why Wind Load Requirements Matter
Coastal commercial and residential doors must meet strict wind load ratings to withstand hurricane-force winds. This means the doors are heavier because of reinforced struts. Heavier doors require larger, heavier springs, which can affect lifespan. While these springs are built tough, the extra weight they’re lifting puts more strain on them over time.
Signs Your Springs May Need Replacement
From our experience in the field, here are the top indicators your commercial springs are wearing out:
- The door feels unusually heavy or won’t stay open
- The opener strains or fails to lift the door
- Visible gaps or stretching in the coil
- Uneven door movement
If you notice these signs, it’s best to schedule service before the spring breaks completely. A broken spring can bring operations to a halt and cause safety hazards.
Our Approach to Spring Replacement
When replacing springs, Garage Door Specialist often recommends swapping both springs at the same time, even if only one is broken. This keeps the door balanced and reduces uneven wear. We also take the opportunity to check cables, bearings, and opener settings during the same visit.
The Bottom Line
Commercial garage door springs are built to last, but no spring lasts forever. Lifespan depends on usage, door weight, and environmental factors. In ideal inland conditions, you can expect years of reliable performance. In harsher coastal conditions, plan for more frequent replacements to keep your operations running smoothly and safely.