What to do if your garage door cable breaks?

When this happens, it can be frustrating and potentially dangerous. In this blog post, we’ll explore what to do if your garage door cable breaks, including safety precautions, troubleshooting steps, and when to call the professionals.

Understanding Garage Door Cables

Before we dive into the steps to take when your garage door cable breaks, it’s essential to understand how these cables work and their importance in the overall functioning of your garage door system.

Garage door cables are the unsung heroes of your garage door system. 

They counterbalance the door’s weight, allowing it to open and close smoothly. These cables are connected to the torsion springs, which provide the lifting force, and the cable drums, which control the cable’s movement.

Types of Garage Door Cables

There are two main types of garage door cables:

• Torsion Cables: These cables are located at the top of the garage door and are connected to the torsion springs. They help lift the door by winding and unwinding around the cable drums.
• Extension Cables: These cables are located on the sides of the garage door and are connected to the pulleys and the counterbalance system. They help stabilize the door as it moves up and down.

Both cables are essential for safely and adequately operating your garage door.

Signs of a Broken Garage Door Cable

Before addressing what to do when your garage door cable breaks, it’s crucial to recognize the signs that indicate a cable issue. Here are some common indicators:

• Frayed or kinked cables
• Broken cable strands
• Uneven door movement
• The door sagging on one side
• Unusual noises during door operation

If you notice any of these signs, you must take immediate action to prevent further damage or potential injury.

Precautions When Dealing with Broken Garage Door Cables

Garage door cables are under immense Tension, and attempting to repair or replace them without proper knowledge and equipment can be extremely dangerous. Here are some critical safety precautions to take if your garage door cable breaks:

• Do not attempt to open or close the door manually. Doing so can cause the springs to snap, resulting in severe injury or damage.
• Disconnect the garage door opener: Unplug or switch off the circuit breaker to prevent accidental operation.
• Prop up the door: Use a sturdy object, like a wooden beam, to support the door in the open position and prevent it from falling unexpectedly.

Safety should always be the top priority when dealing with a broken garage door cable.

Troubleshooting Steps for a Broken Garage Door Cable

If you’re comfortable working with garage door components and have the necessary tools and knowledge, you can attempt to troubleshoot and potentially fix the broken cable yourself. However, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it’s best to call a professional garage door repair service.

Here are some troubleshooting steps you can take if you decide to tackle the issue yourself:

• Inspect the cables and identify the broken Ones. First, carefully inspect the torsion and extension cables to determine which are broken. Look for frayed or snapped cables and note their condition.
• Release the Tension on the Torsion Springs—Before attempting any repairs, you must release the Tension on the Torsion Springs. This process involves winding down the springs using specialized winding bars or cones. Torsion springs are under extreme Tension, so only experienced individuals with the proper tools and safety gear should perform this step.
• Replace the Broken Cable(s)—You can tension the broken cable(s) once the tension is released. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and ensure the new cables are correctly routed and secured.
• Adjust and Tension the Cables—After replacing the cables, you must adjust their tension and ensure that the door operates smoothly and evenly. This step may require specialized tools and knowledge to achieve cable tension and door balance.
• Test and Lubricate the System – Once the cables are replaced and adjusted, thoroughly test the garage door system to ensure it’s functioning correctly. Lubricate all moving parts, including the pulleys, hinges, and rollers, to prolong the lifespan of your garage door components.

When to Call a Professional Garage Door Repair Service

While attempting to repair a broken garage door cable may seem cost-effective, calling a professional garage door repair service is often safer and more efficient. Here are some situations where it’s advisable to seek professional assistance:

• Lack of experience or knowledge in garage door repair
• Difficulty accessing or releasing the torsion springs
• Concerns about safety or potential for injury
• Complex cable replacement or adjustment issues
• Need for additional repairs or replacements (e.g., springs, openers, panels)

Professional garage door repair technicians have the necessary training, tools, and expertise to handle cable replacements and other repairs safely and efficiently.

Preventive Maintenance: Keeping Your Garage Door Cables in Good Condition

Regular preventive maintenance is essential to minimize the risk of garage door cable issues and extend your system’s lifespan. Here are some tips to keep your garage door cables in good condition:

• Visual inspections: Regularly inspect your cables for signs of wear, fraying, or kinking, and address any issues promptly.
• Lubrication: To reduce friction and wear, lubricate the cables, pulleys, and other moving parts according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Adjustment: Ensure the cables are correctly adjusted and tensioned to prevent uneven door movement and premature wear.
• Professional maintenance: Schedule annual or bi-annual professional garage door maintenance to have a trained technician thoroughly inspect and service your system.

These preventive maintenance steps can significantly reduce the likelihood of cable breakages and other garage door issues.

 Trust Gulliver Garage Doors for Expert Garage Door Services in Calgary

If you’re experiencing a broken garage door cable or any other garage door-related issues in Calgary, trust the experts at Gulliver Garage Doors. Our team of highly skilled and certified technicians provides professional garage door repair, maintenance, and installation services to ensure your system operates safely and efficiently.

With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we offer reliable and affordable solutions for all your garage door needs. We’ve covered you, from cable replacements to spring repairs, opener installations, and more.

Don’t put your safety at risk or struggle with complex garage door repairs. Contact Gulliver Garage Doors today and let our experts handle your garage door cable issues professionally.

Experience peace of mind with a properly functioning garage door system. Call us now or visit our website to schedule your appointment and enjoy the convenience and security you deserve.