A smoothly operating garage door is essential for the convenience and security of your home. One common issue that can disrupt the functionality of your garage door is a loose cable. Understanding why garage door cables become loose and knowing how to address this problem can save you from potential hazards and prolong the lifespan of your garage door system. AAA Action Garage Doors will share what you need to know about loose garage door cables.
Understanding Garage Door Cables
Garage door cables are important components of the garage door mechanism. They work in along with either the torsion or extension springs to lift and lower the door safely and smoothly. These cables bear a lot of tension and weight each time the garage door opens and closes. Over time, various factors can cause these cables to become loose, leading to operational issues.
Reasons Why Garage Door Cables Become Loose
Normal Wear and Tear – Regular usage can lead to the natural wear and tear of cables. This wear can cause the cables to stretch and eventually lose their tension, making them appear loose.
Rust and Corrosion – Exposure to moisture and certain environmental conditions can lead to rust and corrosion of the cables. Rust can weaken the cables, causing them to thin and elongate.
Improper Installation – If garage door cables are not installed correctly, they might not have the proper tension from the beginning. Improper installation can lead to quicker loosening and malfunction.
Spring Issues – Since cables work closely with the garage door springs, any problem with the springs such as breakage or loss of tension, can directly affect the cables. If a spring breaks or loses its tension, it can cause the cables to become slack.
Drum Misalignment – The cable drums are located at either end of the torsion spring shaft. If these drums are not aligned properly or become loose, the cable might unwind improperly, causing it to slacken.
How to Fix Loose Garage Door Cables
Before attempting any repairs, ensure your safety by disconnecting the garage door opener and securing the door to prevent it from moving while you work. Consider wearing safety glasses and gloves.
Step 1. Secure the Door – Open the garage door fully to relieve tension on the cables and secure it in place using locking pliers or clamps on the tracks.
Step 2. Locate and Adjust the Tension – For torsion spring systems, locate the cable drum at the end of the spring shaft. Loosen the set screws on the drum, adjust the cable tension, and then retighten the screws. For extension spring systems, adjust the cable’s S-hook or clasp to a different hole on the track bracket to change the tension.
Step 3. Check for Damage – Inspect the cables closely for any signs of wear, fraying, or corrosion. If the cables are damaged, they should be replaced rather than adjusted.
Step 4. Test the Door Balance – After adjusting the tension, carefully remove the clamps and manually open and close the door to check its balance. If the door moves smoothly and stays in place when partially opened, the tension is likely correct.
Step 5. Reconnect the Opener – Once you are satisfied with the manual operation, reconnect the garage door opener and test the door with the automatic mechanism.
When to Call a Professional Garage Door Company
If you are unsure about performing these adjustments yourself, or if the door continues to operate improperly after your adjustments, it is wise to call a professional. Handling garage door springs and cables can be dangerous due to the high tension involved, and professional technicians have the tools and experience to safely make necessary repairs.
Garage Door Services in Aliante, Centennial, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Lone Mountain Village, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, Tuscany Village, Whitney, Winchester & Las Vegas Nevada
Regular maintenance and timely attention to issues like loose cables can keep your garage door functioning safely and effectively. If you discover your garage door cables are loose or need other garage door services, contact AAA Action Garage Doors today.
