Broken cables on garage doors are a relatively common issue, especially as the door and its components age or if maintenance is neglected. The cables play a crucial role in the garage door’s operation, as they are responsible for lifting and lowering the door in conjunction with the springs.

How Common Are Broken Garage Door Cables?

• Frequency: It’s common for garage door cables to wear out or break after several years of use. The frequency can vary depending on factors such as how often the door is used, whether it’s maintained regularly, and the quality of the cables.
• Age & Wear: Cables typically last 5-7 years under normal conditions. High-cycle doors (those used multiple times a day) may experience cable failure sooner, while low-use doors may last longer.
• Environmental Factors: Areas with extreme temperatures or high humidity can see faster cable deterioration.

Common Causes of Garage Door Cable Breakage:

• Wear and Tear: Over time, cables experience metal fatigue from the constant movement and tension they endure during opening and closing cycles. This wear can cause fraying, weakening the cables until they snap.
• Rust and Corrosion: If the cables are exposed to moisture or humidity, they can rust and weaken. Corrosion can significantly reduce their strength and cause them to break prematurely.
• Improper Installation: If the cables were not installed correctly or are of poor quality, they might be more prone to breaking. Poor tension adjustment can also lead to uneven wear.
• Poor Maintenance: Lack of regular inspections and lubrication of the moving parts, including the cables and pulleys, can cause issues over time. A lack of lubrication can increase friction, accelerating wear.
• Damaged Pulleys or Drums: The pulleys and drums that guide the cables can become damaged or worn out. If these parts develop sharp edges or stop functioning smoothly, they can cause the cables to fray and break.
• Excessive Door Weight: If the garage door is not properly balanced or has added weight (e.g., due to extra insulation or a heavier door material), this can put additional strain on the cables, leading to premature failure.

What to Do When Garage Door Cables Break?

• Stop Using the Door: If a cable breaks, immediately stop using the door. Continuing to operate the garage door with broken cables can be dangerous, as it may cause the door to fall or further damage other components.
• Manually Lock the Door: If you need to secure the garage, manually lock the door from the inside until repairs are made.
• Inspect the Cables and Other Components: Check the other cables, springs, and pulleys for signs of damage. If one cable has broken, the other may be worn as well.
• Call a Professional: Garage door cable replacement should be done by a professional. These cables are under high tension, and improper handling can result in serious injury. A professional technician will replace the broken cables, inspect the system, and adjust the tension to ensure everything operates smoothly.
• Schedule Regular Maintenance: To prevent future issues, schedule regular maintenance to inspect and lubricate the moving parts of your garage door. Keeping the cables and other components in good condition can extend the lifespan of your door system.