How Many Struts for a Garage Door?

When people think about garage doors, they typically think about major factors such as the size of the door, how to install it, or how to fix it. But struts are a little but essential component that is sometimes neglected. The question you may ask yourself is, what are struts used in garage doors? Fear not: we shall make it easy and fun! In this article, we are going to discuss the mechanism of garage door struts and what it implies to your garage door system.

What Are Garage Door Struts?

The strong metal bars that cross the rear of your garage door are called struts. Consider them the vertebrae that support and stabilize the garage door. They keep the garage door from bending or drooping, especially during stormy weather or when the garage door is used a lot. As part of regular Garage Door Maintenance, ensuring the struts are in good condition is essential. Without struts garage door may bend or twist, which can cause damage and make it unusable. This could lead to costly fixes or maybe a total system failure. That's why struts are really useful!

Why Do You Need Struts for Your Garage Door?

• Structural Support: Structural support stops panels from buckling or shattering under stress or underweight.
• Enhance the Balance: Less strain on the springs and opener by keeping the door level as it opens and closes.
• Smooth Operation: Provides smooth and silent movement free from rattling or shaking.
• Extended Lifespan: Reduces the wear and tear on hinges, rollers, and tracks.
• Weather Resistance: Protects the garage door from harsh weather conditions and strong winds.
• Cost savings: Increase the longevity of the garage door structure by avoiding regular fixes.

Factors Affecting the Number of Struts Needed

Garage Door Material

• Wooden garage doors: Need 4 or 6 struts to sustain wooden garage door weight.
• Steel or reinforced garage doors: 8–10 struts are often required for proper support to steel or reinforced garage door.
• Fiberglass or vinyl garage doors: Usually require 6 to 8 struts depending on the garage door design.

Weight of the Garage Door

More struts are needed for heavier doors in order to distribute weight equally to avoid bending or fractures due to stress.

Garage Door Size

• Single-car garage (8x7 ft.): Usually needs 1–2 struts.
• Double-car garage (16x7 ft.): Often requires 2–4 struts or more.

Type of Spring System

• Torsion spring systems add additional stress to the upper panel and might require additional struts.
• Extension spring systems may require fewer, but they benefit from reinforcement.

Garage Door Age and Condition

Additional support may be required for older or damaged doors to avoid collapsing or misaligning.

New or insulated doors may come with some struts pre-installed, but more struts may be required for durability.

How Many Struts Do You Need for Different Garage Door Types?

A number of factors like the type of garage door you have, its weight and its size, are decide how many struts that you need. Modern garage doors often require fewer struts due to Innovative Spring Technologies that are more effective. But older garage door types may require more. Your garage door will operate more smoothly and safely if you know how many struts it needs!

Single-Car Garage Doors

Typically weigh between 130 to 200 pounds and may only need one or two struts.

Door Type	Struts Needed
Single Car Garage Door	1 – 2

Double-Car Garage Doors

Weighing 300 to 400+ pounds, these need more reinforcement.

Door Type	Struts Needed
Double Car Garage Door	2 – 4

Custom or Heavy-Duty Garage Doors

Oversized or wooden/metal doors may require more support for safe and reliable function.

Door Type	Struts Needed
Custom/Heavy Duty Door	4 – 6

How to Install or Replace Garage Door Struts

It's a possible DIY project, but for safety, proper installation is essential.

• Prioritize safety: Turn off the garage door opener electricity. Put on goggles and gloves.
• Remove old struts (if replacing): Carefully loosen screws or bolts.
• Insert new struts: Make sure the bolt holes on the garage door panel are lined up and then tighten securely.
• Test the Garage Door: Repeatedly open and close to ensure the seamless motion of the door.

It's preferable to hire a professional if you're hesitant or dealing with a huge or heavy garage door.

Cost of Garage Door Struts

Type	Price per Strut	Total Cost (Single Door)	Total Cost (Double Door)
Basic Steel	$3 – $5	$6 – $10	$12 – $20
Heavy-Duty Stainless	$6 – $10	$12 – $20	$24 – $40
Premium Reinforcement Kits	$50 – $100+	$50 – $100	$100 – $200

Conclusion

To put it simply, garage door struts assist your garage door remain sturdy, level and efficient for an extended period of time. The size and weight of your garage door will determine the number of struts that you may require. Having the appropriate amount of struts makes it easier for your garage door to open and close silently and safely, no matter how large or small it is.

Asking a Garage Door Specialist is a smart choice if you're unsure of what your garage door needs. Adding the appropriate support now can prevent serious issues later, which also saves money!