Why your Calgary garage door cable snapped this morning is a question many homeowners ask during the first cold snap. We understand that a broken cable makes your door look crooked and prevents it from opening at all today. Our team observes that these steel cables bear the entire weight of the heavy door while it moves. Because we want to keep your home accessible, we suggest inspecting your cables for any signs of fraying. We notice that rust and moisture from the winter air can weaken the metal strands over several years. Consequently, the cable finally gives way under the pressure of the heavy garage door springs during a normal cycle. Furthermore, we believe that a snapped cable is a dangerous situation that requires immediate attention from a professional technician.
Using a door with a broken cable can cause the entire system to crash down on your car. This process ensures that you avoid expensive damage to your vehicle and your garage door tracks today. We provide the Best Garage Door repair in Calgary to handle high-tension cable replacements safely and quickly. Furthermore, our experts can check the drums and the rollers to see if they caused the cable to slip. This allows us to fix the root cause of the problem so it does not happen again. Proper cable maintenance is the secret to a long-lasting and reliable garage door system for your family home. We prioritize your safety by using only heavy-duty aircraft-grade cables for every repair job we perform in Calgary. Our team stands ready to help you get your car out of the garage so you can continue your day. Please Contact Us if you see a loose or broken cable hanging from your garage door today.
Understanding the Role of Garage Door Cables in Your System
The cables work together with the springs to lift the heavy weight of the steel garage door panels. We find that the cables wrap around a drum as the door travels up the tracks every morning. Additionally, the tension must be perfectly even on both sides to keep the door level and moving straight. Furthermore, a single broken cable puts all the stress on the remaining side and the opener motor today. Consequently, the door will hang at a dangerous angle and might become jammed in the metal tracks forever. We prioritize a balanced door system to ensure that your garage door opener does not burn out prematurely. Our team can reset the tension on your garage door cable to provide a smooth and safe operation.
Why Rust and Corrosion Lead to Sudden Cable Failure
Calgary roads are covered in salt and chemicals to melt ice throughout the long and snowy winter months. We see that these chemicals often end up on your garage floor and splash onto your steel cables. Additionally, the bottom of the cable near the wet floor is the most common place for rust to grow. Furthermore, rust eats through the metal strands and makes the cable brittle and very weak over time. Consequently, the cable will eventually snap when you least expect it during a routine opening or closing cycle. We suggest keeping the bottom of your garage door clean and dry to prevent this type of corrosion. Our team can apply a specialized lubricant to protect the metal from the harsh Alberta winter elements.
Avoiding the Dangers of DIY Garage Door Cable Repair
Repairing a snapped cable is one of the most dangerous tasks for a homeowner to try alone at home. We find that the cables are under extreme tension from the torsion springs located above the door header. Additionally, a mistake can cause the spring to unwind rapidly and cause a very serious injury to your hands. Furthermore, the door could fall suddenly if the cable is not secured correctly to the bottom bracket today. Consequently, we always recommend hiring a trained professional to handle any issues involving high-tension garage door parts. We use specialized winding bars and safety clamps to ensure the door stays in place during the repair. Our team focuses on safe work practices to protect you and your property from any accidental damage.
FAQ
Can I still use my garage door if one cable is broken?
No, you should never attempt to operate the door with a broken cable as it is extremely dangerous. The door could fall or become permanently bent if it moves while it is out of balance.
Why did my cable come off the drum without breaking?
Cables usually slip off the drum if the door hits an object or if the springs are too weak. We can realign the cables and tighten your springs to keep everything in its proper place.
How can I tell if my garage door cables are about to snap?
Look for any small metal hairs sticking out from the cable or any signs of heavy orange rust. If the cable looks “fuzzy” or frayed, it needs to be replaced immediately by a professional.
How long do garage door cables usually last in Calgary?
In our climate, cables typically last between eight and twelve years depending on the level of local moisture. Regular inspections help you catch wear and tear before a total failure occurs in your garage.
What is the cost of replacing a snapped garage door cable?
The cost depends on the size of your door and the type of cable system you currently have installed. We provide honest and transparent pricing for all cable repairs to help you plan your budget.