Replacing Your Garage Door Cable: A Comprehensive Guide from Straight Up Garage Doors
Garage doors are an essential part of any home, protecting your valuable belongings from theft and the elements. However, over time, the cables that hold up the heavy garage doors can become frayed or even break. When this happens, it’s important to replace them to avoid damage to your garage door and potential safety hazards. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of replacing your garage door cable with expert tips and advice from Straight Up Garage Doors, the premier garage door installation and service company serving central Florida.
Section 1: “Signs You Need to Replace Your Garage Door Cable”
The first step in replacement is knowing when it needs to be replaced in the first place. Here are some signs that yours may need to be replaced:
- Fraying or visible wear and tear on the cable
- The garage door starts to jerk or stall when opening or closing
- The garage door becomes crooked or uneven when opening or closing
- You can hear unusual noises or popping sounds coming from the garage door when in use
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact a professional garage door repair company like Straight Up Garage Doors to assess the situation and determine if your cable needs to be replaced.
Section 2: “Common Types of Garage Door Cables”
There are two main types: torsion and extension cables. Torsion cables are typically used on heavier garage doors, while extension cables are used on lighter garage doors. At Straight Up Garage Doors, we carry a range of different cables to fit your garage door needs, and our expert technicians can help you determine which type of cable is right for your specific situation.
Section 3: “Preparing for Garage Door Cable Replacement”
Before you begin, it’s important to make sure you have the proper tools and equipment on hand. You’ll need:
- A replacement garage door cable (make sure to measure the length of your current cable to ensure you get the correct size)
- Pliers
- A wrench
- Safety glasses
- A ladder or step stool
- A friend or family member to assist you
It’s also important to note that replacement can be dangerous, so it’s best to contact a professional garage door repair company like Straight Up Garage Doors if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself.
Section 4: “Replacing Your Garage Door Cable: Step-by-Step”
If you decide to replace yours yourself, here is a step-by-step guide to help you:
- Start by disconnecting the garage door opener from the garage door, as well as any other hardware that may be attached to the door.
- Use pliers to grip the old cable at one end and slowly unwind it from the garage door drum.
- Once the old cable is removed, you can begin to thread the new cable back onto the garage door drum, making sure to follow the proper winding pattern.
- Once the new cable is securely in place on the garage door drum, slide it through the pulley system on the garage door and attach it to the bottom bracket.
- Use a wrench to tighten the bolts on the bottom bracket and the garage door drum.
- Finally, reattach the garage door opener and any other hardware that was removed earlier.
It’s important to note that this is a general guide, and the exact steps may vary depending on what you have. If you have any doubts or concerns, it’s best to contact a professional garage door repair company like Straight Up Garage Doors to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
Section 5: “Other Garage Door Cable Maintenance Tips”
In addition to replacement when necessary, there are other steps you can take to ensure your garage door stays in top condition:
- Lubricate the cables and other moving parts of the garage door on a regular basis to prevent rust and wear.
- Inspect the garage door cables and other parts for wear and tear on a regular basis, and contact a professional repair company like Straight Up Garage Doors if you notice anything unusual.
- Avoid hanging heavy objects from the garage door or using it as a play area, as this can put unnecessary stress on the cables and other parts of the door.
Section 6: “Why Choose Straight Up Garage Doors for Your Needs?”
At Straight Up Garage Doors, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality garage door installation and repair services. Our expert technicians have years of experience in the industry. And, for your assurance, are fully licensed and insured. When you choose us for your garage door cable replacement needs, you can rest assured that the job will be done safely, efficiently, and at a fair price.
Section 7: “Contact Straight Up Garage Doors Today”
If you’re in need of garage door cable replacement in central Florida, contact Straight Up Garage Doors today. Our team of experienced technicians is standing by to help you with all of your garage door needs, and we offer competitive pricing and fast, reliable service. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and experience the Straight Up Garage Doors difference!
