Common Issues with Garage Door Cables and How to Fix Them

Garage door cables are an important part of the mechanics of a garage door, but they can be prone to wear and tear from usage or age. Common issues with garage door cables include fraying or breaking, snapping or slipping off their tracks, and rust build-up.

When any of these problems occur, it’s important to fix them promptly in order to ensure the smooth operation of the garage door and prevent further damage. The best decision is to get a garage door cable repair kit – Fix Garage Doors CA to save yourself time and money in the long run.

Meanwhile, in this article, we’re going to discuss all you need to know about common cable issues and how to fix them.

Fraying Or Breaking Cables

If you notice that one or more cables on your garage door are fraying or showing signs of wear, it’s important to act fast. Frayed or broken cables should always be replaced as soon as possible. In some cases, you might be able to just replace the damaged section of cable; however, it is usually recommended that the entire cable be replaced to avoid future problems.

To replace a frayed/broken cable, you will need a pair of pliers and a vise grip or clamping tool (available at hardware stores). Use the pliers to remove any attachments from the old cable before using the vise grip tool to loosen the bolts on either end so you can slip out the old cable and put in a new one.

Snapping Or Slipping Off Tracks

If your garage door cable has snapped or slipped off its track, then this could mean that either the spring tension was too high for it or that something else caused it to come loose from its mounting point.

For this issue, you may need to adjust the tension on the springs so they aren’t too tight; if this doesn’t resolve the problem then you may also need to invest in replacement springs which can be purchased online at most home improvement outlets.

Additionally, if there is another object blocking access such as a bike leaning against it then remove whatever is blocking access so you can reattach/tighten cables back onto tracks accordingly.

Rust Build-Up

Rust build-up is not only unsightly; it can also cause serious damage over time if left untreated. If your garage door has rust build-up on its components (especially near where cables connect), then this needs to be properly treated before any repairs can take place otherwise corrosion will continue worsening problems.

The best way to combat rust is by wiping down affected areas regularly with an oil designed specifically designed fight corrosion (WD 40 brand works well) while also taking care not to expose newly cleaned surfaces exposed air/moisture directly afterward which could cause new spots to form quickly.

Should you DIY or Call a Professional?

Fixing a broken or frayed garage door cable may seem like a simple fix; however, it can be a dangerous job. It is, therefore, important to decide whether you will attempt to repair the cables yourself or hire a professional.

One of the most important considerations before attempting any DIY repairs on your garage door cables is ensuring that you have the correct tools and knowledge to do the job safely. If you are lacking either, then it may be best to leave this kind of task to an experienced professional.

A professional technician will not only have access to the right tools and expertise but will also know how to properly adjust the tension on the springs so as not to cause any further damage. Another advantage of leaving this type of repair to a professional is that they can provide a warranty on parts and labor.

That said, tackling minor repairs on your own can be quite rewarding – if you’re prepared! Be sure to thoroughly research what needs repairing and double-check that you have all the necessary tools and equipment beforehand. Make sure there are no objects blocking access that could affect the installation process. Additionally, stay safe by wearing safety glasses throughout the entire job.

By following these steps and paying close attention to details, anyone experiencing common issues with their garage door cables will be able to diagnose and do minor maintenance if needed. We also hope, this article has provided some helpful tips when deciding between doing repairs yourself versus hiring professional services.