How many struts does a garage door need?

There is no single number that applies to every garage door. The manufacturer sets a reinforcement plan for each model and width, and that plan says which sections get a strut. A narrow, lightweight single-car door may get by with one, most often on the top section. Wider double-car doors flex more across their span and commonly call for reinforcement on more than one section.

What affects the count

• Door width, since wider sections bow more under their own weight and wind pressure.
• Construction and weight, such as single-layer steel, insulated steel or wood.
• The opener connection, because the top section takes the opener's pull on every cycle.
• The manufacturer's reinforcement schedule for that model.

Signs a section may need a strut

• The top section visibly bows or flexes when the door is closed or as the opener starts to pull.
• An existing strut is rusted, dented or has come loose from the section.
• A wide door has no visible strut across the top section.

Why more is not automatically better

Every strut adds weight, and the springs are sized for a specific door weight. Adding bars beyond what the door calls for can leave it out of balance and put extra strain on the opener. After any reinforcement change, the door should be balance tested and the opener's reversal checked. If a section is already bowed, find the cause before covering it with a strut. We check struts and panel condition during repair and tune-up visits.

Read more

• Garage door strut guide
• Garage door tune-up

Related questions

• Are garage door struts universal?
• Can I install a garage door strut myself?
• Do you replace the whole garage door track?
• When do I need to replace my garage door trolley?
• Does an off-track garage door mean I need a new door?

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