Understanding Garage Door Cables

Garage door cables work alongside springs to safely lift and lower your heavy garage door. When cables fail, it creates a dangerous situation that requires immediate professional attention.

How Garage Door Cables Work

Cables connect the bottom of the door to the spring system. They:

•Bear the weight of the door during operation

•Provide controlled lowering when the door closes

•Keep the door from falling if a spring breaks (with safety cables)

Common Cable Problems

Fraying

Over time, cables can fray from:

•Normal wear and friction

•Contact with rough surfaces

•Exposure to moisture and rust

•Poor quality cables

Snapping

Cables can break suddenly from:

•Excessive wear without replacement

•Rust weakening the metal

•Improper spring adjustment

•Impact or damage

Coming Off the Drum

Cables can slip off the drum due to:

•Broken springs

•Door obstructions

•Worn drums

•Improper tension

Warning Signs of Cable Problems

Watch for:

•Door hanging at an angle

•Door not opening smoothly

•Visible fraying or rust on cables

•Door making grinding sounds

•Slack in the cables

The Danger of Cable Failure

When a cable fails:

•The door can fall suddenly

•The remaining cable is under extreme stress

•The door becomes unpredictable

•Serious injury can result from attempting operation

Why You Should Not DIY Cable Repair

Garage door cables are under hundreds of pounds of tension. Improper handling can cause:

•Severe lacerations

•Broken bones

•Property damage

•Even death

Professional cable repair includes:

•Safe release of tension

•Inspection of all components

•High-quality replacement cables

•Proper tensioning and alignment

•Safety testing

Call Us Immediately

If you notice cable problems, stop using the door and call Power Garage Doors. We offer emergency same-day service for cable repairs.

Garage Door Cable Repair: What Homeowners Need to Know