Different Types of Garage Door Cables: Which Is Right for Your Door?

As you use your garage daily, you need working garage door cables to keep your home safe and secure. Cables must work with the other parts of your garage door system to keep the door safe and stable.

Are the cables on your garage door worn out, fraying, or broken? This blog will discuss different cable types and how they work to keep your garage door safe to use. Are unsure about the type of cable you need for your particular garage door style? Do you want to know more about the benefits of using the right cable? Then read on and let us learn more about this important component.

The Purpose of Garage Door Cables

The cables and springs carry the weight of your garage door in the door system. If your garage door does not have cables, the door’s movement will stretch and twist the springs. That will cause them to wear out faster and could damage your door. Therefore, ensuring that your door has the right cables will provide you with peace of mind that you can open and close your door safely, time and time again.

The Different Types of Cables for Garage Doors

Lift or Torsion Cables

Torsion cables are an important part of your garage door system that uses torsion springs to lift and lower the door. The cables for torsion springs are called lift cables or torsion cables. These steel cables can handle the high tension resulting from the tightly-wound torsion springs. They attach to the bottom of the garage door and wrap around a drum at the top of the door. As the torsion springs unwind, they create a force for the lift cables, which lift the door.

Proper installation and maintenance of torsion spring cables guarantees optimal garage door performance. If you see any signs of wear and tear, do not hesitate to call a certified garage door specialist to fix the issue without delay.

Garage Door Extension Cables

The cables for extension springs are called extension cables. These steel-made cables can handle the garage door’s weight as it moves up and down along the tracks. They attach to the bottom of the garage door and run through the extension springs on either side of the door. As the door opens or closes, the extension springs expand or contract, which pulls or releases tension on the extension cables.

It is crucial that you install and maintain extension spring cables properly. It will ensure the safe and smooth operation of the garage door. A professional garage door technician should immediately address any signs of wear to the cables. 

Remember: Attempting to replace or repair torsion or extension spring cables on your own is dangerous for non-pros. Therefore, it is best to hire a skilled garage door repair expert for this job.

Choosing the Right Cable for Your Garage

Choosing the right garage door cable depends on several factors:

• How big and heavy your garage door is
• The type of springs in your garage door system
• The amount of use your garage door gets

If you are unsure which garage door cable will work best, talk to a reliable garage door service provider. They can look at your garage door system and tell you which cable you need.

Generally speaking, lift cables are for torsion springs, and extension cables are for extension springs. Because they have to handle the higher tension of torsion springs, lift cables are thicker and stronger than extension cables. On the other hand, because they have to move through the extension springs when the garage door goes up and down, extension cables are thinner and more flexible.

Garage Door Repair Near Me

Are the cables on your garage door becoming loose or are fraying? Omaha Garage Door Repair offers reliable and affordable garage door services, including garage door cable replacement and repair. We understand the importance of having a reliable and secure garage door that functions correctly. That is why we offer only top-notch craftsmanship and customer service for our garage door repair works in the Omaha, NE, area. Whether you have an old make and model or something more modern, we guarantee satisfaction for your repair needs. So contact us today for all your garage door repair needs!