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Springs are like the unsung performers in a mechanical orchestra — tiny pieces of coiled metal that keep doors closing smoothly, machinery running quietly, and suspension systems absorbing shocks. Use the wrong spring and the whole performance can go out of tune: premature wear, poor fit, or even safety hazards. That’s why knowing where to buy the right springs in the UK and what to look for matters more than you might think.
Compression springs are the most common type you’ll meet on DIY shelves. They compress under load and then return to their original length. Think of pen mechanisms and small appliances. Typical sizes range from tiny coils around 1/8 inch in diameter up to several inches, with free lengths from less than 1/2 inch to 12 inches or more depending on the application.
Extension springs work the opposite way: they stretch when pulled. You’ll find them in garage doors, trampolines, and some garden tools. Pay attention to hook type and overall length — a few inches difference can make all the difference to fit and safety. In most UK shops you’ll see extension springs listed by body length and maximum stretched length in inches.
Torsion springs store rotational energy and are used on garage doors, hinge mechanisms, and various machinery. These springs are measured by leg length and torque rating (often given in pounds-inch). If you’re dealing with torsion springs, precise measurement and correct replacement are critical since these springs can be under heavy tension.
Specialty springs cover a huge range: heavy-duty garage door springs that span several feet, mattress innerspring systems, and tiny valve springs for engines. Each specialty spring has unique measuring conventions — for example, garage door springs are often specified by wire gauge, inner diameter, and number of coils rather than simple length alone.
Screwfix is a go-to for many tradespeople and DIYers. It stocks a wide range of compression, extension, and specialist springs in various finishes. You’ll find options in stainless steel and zinc-plated finishes, plus bulk packs if you need multiples. Screwfix’s search filters let you narrow by diameter, length, and material, which speeds up finding the right coil.
Wickes offers a solid selection for home improvement projects, focusing on commonly used sizes for domestic repairs. While their range isn’t as industrial as some specialist suppliers, Wickes is convenient for quick replacements of door or furniture springs and often has competitive prices for standard sizes measured in inches.
B&Q is handy for household springs and light workshop needs. Their online product pages usually list dimensions in inches and include clear photos so you can match old springs visually. For yard and garden gear, B&Q can be a fast option, especially if you need to pair springs with brackets or mounting hardware.
Toolstation focuses on trade quality and tends to stock both small packs for single repairs and larger quantities for workshops. They’re a reliable source for stainless steel and heavy-duty springs and provide clear measurements in imperial units, including wire thickness and overall length in inches.
RS Components is aimed more at engineers and professional repairers. Expect a wide technical range, including precision springs with detailed specs like spring rate (pounds per inch), free length, and maximum load. This is the place to go if you need exacting specifications and product datasheets.
Homebase is another good option for household and garden needs. Their range covers most domestic scenarios and includes helpful in-store staff in larger branches who can guide you on matching sizes by inches. Homebase often stocks standard compression and extension springs suitable for furniture and gates.
Marketplaces like Amazon and eBay are treasure troves for springs, especially if you need obscure sizes or bulk packs. Read product descriptions carefully — look for wire diameter in inches, inner diameter, and material. Seller ratings and customer photos are useful clues about fit and real-world durability.
Travis Perkins supplies to the building trade and carries a variety of hardware accessories including springs for gates, industrial shutters, and larger construction uses. Their stock tends to be robust and aimed at heavier applications, with imperial measurements used for shaft sizes and lengths.
Price and quality can vary widely depending on material, finish, and precision of manufacturing. A cheap spring might save a few pounds now but could cost more in the long run if it corrodes or breaks early. Compare according to specs, not just price: wire diameter in inches, free length, outer or inner diameter, and maximum load or spring rate are the key numbers to watch.
Stainless steel springs resist rust and are great for damp environments, while zinc-plated springs are cheaper but less durable outdoors. Phosphate-coated springs offer a balance for indoor machinery. If your spring lives near water or salt air, spend a little more on stainless or a corrosion-resistant finish measured in inches and pounds rather than guessing.
When replacing a spring, measure the free length in inches, the inner diameter in inches, the wire diameter in inches, and count the number of coils. For torsion springs also record leg length in inches and specify torque in pounds-inch if possible. Jot these numbers down before you buy and compare like-for-like across stores.
Want to avoid a weekend of trial and error? Start by matching the key measurements and material. Use visuals: take a clear photo of the old spring alongside a ruler or a one-inch coin to show scale. That helps online sellers and store staff recommend accurate replacements.
Off-the-shelf springs cover 90% of DIY needs, but if you’re working on vintage machinery or a bespoke project, a custom-made spring may be necessary. Custom springs will cost more, sometimes several pounds per unit extra, but they’re worth it when fit and function demand precision. Stores like RS Components can often point you to specialists who make custom springs to your inch-based specs.
If you’re stocking a workshop, buying springs in packs of 10 or 50 can significantly lower per-spring cost. For one-off repairs, single purchases are fine but check if the store offers multi-packs — often cheaper per unit. Remember to store extra springs dry and in a simple box to avoid corrosion or loss.
Installing springs can be straightforward, but some types store a lot of energy. Garage door and large torsion springs can be dangerous if handled incorrectly. Treat spring work like electrical work: respect the energy stored, use the right tools, and if in doubt call a professional.
Use snap-ring pliers, spring compressors, or winding bars sized in inches as recommended for the spring. Always wear safety glasses and gloves. If a replacement involves removing tensioned springs, use tools that match the spring’s dimensions and rated capacity measured in pounds, and secure the area to prevent loose parts from becoming projectiles.
If the spring is long (several feet), under heavy load, or integral to a safety system (garage doors, heavy gates), that’s a job for a professional. Incorrect winding or fitting can lead to sudden failure. A pro will have the correct winding bars and torque measurements in pounds-inch to ensure safe installation.
Garage door springs are typically heavy-duty torsion or extension types specified by wire gauge, inner diameter in inches, and length. If you’re replacing a garage spring, get the exact specs or have a pro measure for you — a mismatch can put strain on the door opener and reduce lifespan.
Furniture springs are often shorter compression types that need to sit snugly inside seats or frames. Mattresses use pocket springs or continuous coil systems measured by height in inches and coil count. When replacing springs in upholstery, stick to sizes and firmness levels that match the original to avoid sagging or uneven support.
Automotive valve springs and suspension components demand high precision and heat-treated steel. These springs are measured in inches and specified by spring rate and maximum load. For vehicles, always use manufacturer-specified parts or equivalents sold by reputable outlets that list exact inch-based specs.
Springs don’t last forever. Expect light-duty springs used indoors to last several years, while outdoor or high-load springs may need replacement sooner. Regular checks for corrosion, deformation, or reduced elasticity will protect equipment and safety.
If a spring shows visible rust, cracks, significant stretching (longer by several tenths of an inch than the original free length), or loss of function (door slamming or machinery misbehaving), it’s time for a new one. Don’t wait until it snaps — proactive replacement avoids sudden failures.
If you’re replacing springs, remember that steel is widely recyclable. Many metal recycling centres accept springs and coils; scrap value will vary but recycling keeps steel in use. Choosing durable, corrosion-resistant springs also saves resources in the long run by reducing replacements.
Buying springs isn’t glamorous, but it’s rewarding when you get the right fit and function. Start with clear measurements in inches, pick the right material for the environment, and choose a retailer that provides the technical details you need. Whether you head to Screwfix for a quick fix, RS Components for a precision part, or Amazon for a rare size, you’ll find plenty of options across the UK — just remember that a few extra minutes measuring can save hours of frustration later.
Now that you know what to measure, where to look, and when to call in help, you can tackle spring replacements with confidence. Think of springs as small investments that keep bigger systems humming — treat them well and they’ll repay you with smooth, dependable performance.
