Whenever you decide to replace the torsion spring of your garage, the basic things that you usually consider are the wire size, length and weight of the spring. However, there are also some things that you must bear in mind such as pondering over if you will go for an oil-torsion spring or a zinc-galvanized one.

Both types of torsion springs have their own advantages and disadvantages and this blog will be telling you this important information so that when you plan to replace your torsion spring next time, you will know what type to purchase.

OIL-TEMPERED TORSION SPRINGS

From the name itself, an oil-tempered torsion spring has an oil tempering process that the torsion springs of the garage doors undertakes so that it can increase its strength to open a door.

By doing so, the cold-drawn spring is heated so that it becomes a torsion spring. Once it is heated, the spring is then quenched in a container of oil. The spring is then reheated with a lower temperature so that its tensile strength will improve and have a better deformation resistance.

Commonly, those garage doors that uses torsion springs also uses oil-tempered ones because of its affordability and availability.

PROS

• Durability is high – oil-tempered springs are known for their superb durability. Also, they can surpass zinc-galvanized springs when talking about a heavy and constant use.
• Affordability – it costs less that zinc-galvanized torsion springs because it can be manufactured easily and the materials costs lower.
• No need for adjustment – oil-tempered torsion springs can maintain their elasticity for a longer time than zinc-galvanize spring can. Hence, constant adjustments are not required unless the spring is already old or has a manufacture defect.

CONS

• Poor rust protection – oil-tempered springs cannot protect itself from rusting hence a lubricant is needed to prevent it from getting rust that could damage the spring.
• Not aesthetically appealing – it has a black and flat appearance that a lot of homeowners dislikes.
• Installing can be a mess – the process of installing can leave an oil or a film residue which is very difficult to remove in one’s hands. That is why it is mandatory that you must use protective gloves when installing.

ZINC-GALVANIZED TORSION SPRINGS

Contrary to the heated and quenched oil-tempered torsion springs, the zinc-galvanized torsion springs are submerged in a hot-dip galvanization process. By doing so, the spring that is made of steel is immersed in a container of molten zinc at a very high temperature.

The steel spring is then removed from the container and the oxygen exposure will transform the zinc into zinc oxide, and then it will form into zinc carbonate upon exposure to carbon dioxide.

PROS

• Rust resistant – because of the hot-dip process that the spring went through, the spring can resist rust and corrosion. As a result, it has a longer life span compared to oil-tempered torsion spring.
• Little to no residue –hot-dip galvanization process is very clean that it will not leave any residue unlike installing an oil-tampered torsion spring.
• Great aesthetics –the spring is shinier and sparkly which will give a better appearance in your garage compared to a dull oil-tempered torsion spring.

CONS

• Less elasticity – the zinc-galvanized spring tends to lose their elasticity over time; hence, regular tunings are required in your garage doors.
• Noisier operation – if you want a quiet and peaceful garage, you may not appreciate installing this type of torsion spring.
• More expensive – this type of spring usually has a higher cost value compared to an oil-tempered spring.

Ideally, zinc-galvanized springs are best to be used if you are in a tropical or humid area because this type of temperature brings moisture which can abruptly cause rust or corrosion in the torsion spring. If not, oil-tempered springs can offer better durability and value.

If you think that you need to replace your torsion springs now, do not hesitate to contact Direct Service Overhead Garage Door Company for services.

Worried about the durability and the condition of your garage door? Read our next blog and get to know the Main Mechanisms Of An Automatic Garage Door.