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Garage door cables are the backbone of any garage door system. They support the garage door’s weight, allowing your door to open and close. Unfortunately, a cable problem can cause severe issues with your garage door opener and the door itself. At Titan Garage Doors NE, we believe that knowledge is power. This helpful guide on garage door cable maintenance. Read further to learn what you need to do to keep these components working as they should.
Garage Door Cables: How Do They Work
Garage door cables are made from strands of galvanized steel. They extend from near floor level at each side of a garage door up to each side’s drum higher up. These cables will wrap around each drum as you open and close your garage door.
Cables help the springs support the door’s weight and ensure its easy opening and closing. Even though cables work with springs to help bear the load, they are essentially there for stability and safety. The number and thickness of cables to use are contingent on the door’s size and weight.
How Do You Maintain Garage Door Cables?
Checking garage door cables at regular intervals is a must. To ensure proper maintenance, it is best to give them a once-over either every six months or annually. But what exactly is involved in this process? Read on for more details.
Use Lubricant Sparingly
Lubrication is not necessary across the entire length of a garage door cable. Instead, apply some lubricant to the cable section near the bottom bracket button on a roller door. That will decrease frictional resistance and can help extend the operational lifespan of your cables. When selecting a lubricant, it is important to follow what manufacturers have recommended. In most cases, a light household oil can do an outstanding job of providing lubrication.
Check for Kinks and Fraying
You can run your finger along the length of the cable to feel for any bumps or breaks. A smooth surface indicates that the cable is in good condition. Any time your finger is “poked” by the cable means one strand of metal has broken. Remember that these cables are under much tension, so it is best to call a technician for repairs.
Keep the Right Tension
You will know the tension on your garage door cables is too tight when the door does not fully close. To avoid this problem, ensure the cables are snug but not too tight or loose. Also, they should be straight on the drum track.
Keep Them Dirt-Free
Cables generally do not require cleaning, though you can lightly brush them with a soft cloth. However, avoid scrubbing them as you would with garage door tracks and other stationary components. Focus on the part of the cables that are closest to the ground, as they are typically the most exposed to moisture. Remove any dirt or buildup with an old toothbrush or other soft-bristled brush.
Garage Door Repair Near Me
Titan Garage Doors NE is your one-stop shop for garage door service and repairs. We have you covered from garage door installation to garage door opener repair and garage door spring replacement. We also offer a full range of garage door services, including door cable replacement. Our team can ensure your garage door cable is safe and secure. We can also provide garage door maintenance services in Omaha, Lincoln, NE, and Council Bluffs, IA. So, contact us today to learn more about what we do and how we work!
