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Where To Buy/ServiceGarage Door Cable Replacement
Garage door cables are essential for a smooth operation and work with the springs to lift and lower the door. When you press the opener, the cables wind or unwind from the drums located at the ends of the springs. This controlled release of spring tension allows the door to move up or down along the tracks. The cables distribute the weight evenly and counterbalance the door's weight This makes it manageable for the automatic opener or for you to open the door manually.
But when a cable breaks, it's more than just an inconvenience – it's a safety hazard. A snapping cable can cause damage and injury. As a homeowner, you should know the signs of a failing cable and how to replace it safely (call a pro!).
If a cable snaps, it can cause the garage door to come crashing down, potentially damaging your car, the door itself, and even injuring someone standing underneath. That's why it's important to keep a close eye out for signs that a cable might be on the verge of breaking. Here are some key indicators to watch for:
Fraying or splitting: When you inspect your cables, look for any signs of wear like fraying, splitting, or rust. These are all indications that the cable's strength is compromised, and it could break at any moment. If you notice any damage, don't hesitate – replace the cable right away.
Slackening: If there’s not enough tension in the cables, it can lead them to slack. This increases their likelihood of becoming entangled or misaligned and ultimately leading to a break.
Misalignment: Pay attention to how your garage door is moving. If it's not opening or closing smoothly, catching on the track, or wobbling as it goes up and down, it could indicate a problem with the cables. An improperly aligned door puts extra stress on the cables, which can shorten their lifespan.
While regular inspections are your first line of defense against a broken cable, there are steps you can take to help prevent breaks from happening in the first place. One major source of friction is from the pulleys, which can cause cables to weaken. Keeping these pulleys well-lubricated can help the cables last longer.
An improperly balanced door also puts extra strain on the cables. If your door is too heavy in the down position, it will be harder for the opener to lift, putting stress on the cables. Have your door balanced by a professional if necessary to prevent this. It's also important to avoid over-tightening your cables. While they need to be tight enough to lift the door, over-tightening can cause them to break prematurely. A good rule of thumb is to tighten the cables until they're snug, then back off a quarter turn.
Some garage door openers come with a backup cable system that engages if the main cable breaks, preventing the door from crashing down. While not essential, they can provide an extra layer of safety and might be something for you to consider when purchasing an opener.
Garage door cables are under immense tension, which makes them incredibly dangerous if not handled properly. A snapping cable can lash out with enough force to embed itself in wood or shatter glass. If you're standing in the way, it could cause serious injury. Here are some precautions to take when dealing with garage door cables:
- Never touch a broken cable: If a cable breaks, don't try to touch it or move it out of the way. The remaining tension can still cause it to snap, leading to injury.
- Disconnect the opener: Before attempting any repairs, always disconnect the garage door opener. This will prevent the door from moving unexpectedly.
- Clamp the door: If you need to remove a broken cable, clamp the door to the track to prevent it from falling.
- Don't overdo it: If you're not comfortable with heights or don't feel strong enough to handle the weight and tension of the cables, call a professional. It's better to spend a little money than risk getting hurt.
- Watch for rebound: When removing a cable, be aware that the pulley it was attached to can rebound once the cable is detached, potentially hitting you.
When a garage door cable breaks, it's tempting to try and replace it yourself to save some money. But this is one repair where calling a professional is the smarter choice. In addition to the safety concerns, if you attempted a DIY fix, improper installation could lead to more problems and cost you even more in the long run. And if you're not confident in your ability to handle the weight and tension involved, you could end up injuring yourself or causing further damage to your door.
The potential risks and complications make hiring a professional the best option for garage door cable replacement. Professionals have the specialized training and equipment to safely remove and replace a cable, making sure it’s installed correctly, with the proper tension. Improperly installed cables can lead to more breaks down the line, putting you right back where you started.
A professional can also check and adjust the door's balance, which is key to prevent further cable breaks. And if your door or opener is still under warranty, doing the work yourself may void it. Check your warranty terms before proceeding.
Replacing a garage door cable is not a job for a beginner. The risks are too great, and the consequences of a mistake can be serious. Always call a professional for this type of repair.
Once your new garage door cables are installed, a little ongoing maintenance can help ensure they last as long as possible. Here are some tips:
Lubricate the pulleys: The garage door cables wrap around pulleys—keep them well-lubricated to reduce wear and tear on the cables. Use a silicone-based lubricant for best results.
Check cable tension: While you shouldn't try to adjust the tension yourself, keep an eye on how the cables look. If they appear loose or are sagging, have a professional check the tension.
Inspect for damage: Regularly inspect your cables for signs of fraying, rust, or kinking. If you notice any damage, have the cable replaced.
Test the balance: Make sure your door is properly balanced. An unbalanced door puts extra stress on the cables. You can test the balance by disconnecting the opener and manually opening the door. It should stay put about halfway open.
Schedule annual checks: Have a professional inspect your garage door system, including the cables, annually. They can catch any potential issues before they become major problems.
Replacing a garage door cable is a job that demands attention to detail and a focus on safety. By knowing the signs of a failing cable, taking steps to prevent breaks, and calling a professional when it's time to replace one, you can keep your garage door running smoothly while minimizing the risk of injury or damage. Remember, while it may be tempting to DIY, the risks of garage door cable replacement make hiring a pro the better choice. And if you’re in the market for a new garage door, consider the options available from Clopay. Contact a dealer in your local area to see what would work best for your home.
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