What is the difference between garage door cable repair and replacement?

The deciding factor is the condition of the cable itself. A cable that is intact but has come off its drum can often go back on once the cause is corrected. A cable with broken strands, rust or kinks needs to be replaced, because putting it back into service leaves a weakened part holding the door.

What a cable repair covers

• Re-seating a cable that slipped off the drum at the top of the track.
• Replacing worn hardware around the cable, such as a damaged drum or bottom bracket.
• Fixing what made the cable slip, such as a door that bound in the track or an opener that kept pushing on a stuck door.

What a cable replacement covers

• Safely releasing spring tension and removing the old cables.
• Checking the drums, rollers and bottom brackets for related wear.
• Installing new cables sized to the door, usually as a pair.
• Re-tensioning the springs and testing balance and movement.

How to tell which you need

From the floor, look for fraying, rust and kinks. A clean cable that is just slack or off the drum may only need repair. Any visible damage points to replacement. Either way, the work involves spring tension, so leave it to a technician; we inspect and tell you which applies. Repair visits carry a $45 diagnostic trip fee, and you approve a written price first. See whether both cables need replacing for the pair question.

Read more

• Garage door cable repair
• Garage door cable replacement

Related questions

• Do both garage door cables need to be replaced at once?
• Can I put my garage door back on the track myself?
• How long do garage door cables last?
• Is it safe to use a garage door that's off track?
• Can I repair or replace a garage door cable myself?

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