What To Do If Your Garage Door Has A Broken Cable

Garage doors are essential parts of your home, but they can also be one of the most overlooked. If your garage door has a broken cable, it not only affects the door's overall function but also compromises your family's safety. However daunting it might seem, it's crucial to address the issue as fast as possible. Here are some helpful tips and tricks about what to do if your garage door has a broken cable.

Determine If The Cable Is Broken

The first step is to determine whether or not the cable is really broken. Garage door cables are under high tension, so if one is broken, you’ll often notice that the door won’t open or close correctly. The door might start to move slower than normal, or you might hear grinding or scraping noises coming from the door. If you suspect your cable is broken, you can assess it by standing inside your garage and trying to lift the door. If it's difficult to open the door, your cable is likely broken.

Close the Door Manually

If your garage door cable is broken, it’s important to leave it in the closed position until you can arrange to have it fixed by a professional. If the door is stuck in the open position, however, you can use the emergency manual release. This enables you to manually lift or lower the garage door to close it. Consult your owner’s manual to determine the location of the release button, which is often located near the motor or hanging on a rope.

Hire A Professional

Replacing a garage door cable is not an easy job. Even experienced DIYers will need to exercise caution when attempting it. This is a dangerous job and can lead to fatal injuries if not done correctly. You should hire a professional garage door technician to fix the broken cable rather than attempting to do it yourself. This ensures the job is done safely, correctly, and efficiently.

Prevent Future Cable Issues

It’s important to maintain your garage door to ensure future cable issues are avoided. Regular inspections and maintenance will help ensure that your cables are in good condition. Lubricate all moving parts and clean out any debris regularly. It’s also essential to keep your door on a regular service schedule to avoid any future issues.

Now that you know what to do if your garage door has a broken cable, you can confidently handle the situation. Contact a professional for more information about garage door repair.