Home & DIY

Garage Door Torsion Spring Calculator

Wire size, IPPT and turns for a replacement spring.

Enter your values

4in drum = 2in radius

Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed.

Results
Winding turns
6.68
Total IPPT needed
44.9
IPPT per spring
44.9
Lift capacity check
150 lb
Safety
Wind springs with two proper winding bars only — never screwdrivers

Quick answer

Required IPPT = door weight × drum radius ÷ number of turns; a 7 ft door on 4-inch drums normally needs 7.5 winding turns.

IPPT = weight × drum radius ÷ turns

At a glance

What it doesWire size, IPPT and turns for a replacement spring.
CategoryHome & DIY
Inputs neededDoor weight, Door height, Drum radius, Number of springs
Main outputWinding turns
FormulaIPPT = weight × drum radius ÷ turns
CostFree — no sign-up, no download

How to use the Garage Door Torsion Spring Calculator

  1. 1Weigh the door on a bathroom scale with the springs disconnected.
  2. 2Enter the door height and drum radius.
  3. 3Choose one spring or a matched pair.

Inputs explained

Door weight(lb)
Enter the door weight you are working with.
Door height(ft)
Enter the door height you are working with.
Drum radius(in)
4in drum = 2in radius
Number of springs
Choose one of: Single spring, Pair of springs.

Worked example

Using the values the calculator loads with:

Inputs

  • Door weight150 lb
  • Door height7 ft
  • Drum radius2 in
  • Number of springsSingle spring

Results

  • Winding turns6.68
  • Total IPPT needed44.9
  • IPPT per spring44.9
  • Lift capacity check150 lb
  • SafetyWind springs with two proper winding bars only — never screwdrivers

Frequently asked questions

How many turns does a 7 ft garage door spring need?

About 7.5 turns on standard 400-8 drums — one quarter turn per foot of height plus 7.

Can I replace a torsion spring myself?

Only with proper winding bars and a locked door; a loaded spring stores enough energy to cause serious injury.

Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.