Torsion cables are one of the most important parts of your garage door. Unfortunately, they are potentially the weakest, and often most neglected part of your door. What do they do? They are part of your doors’ torsion system, the mechanism that provides a counter balance to your door, allowing it to be lifted easily.

The top part of the torsion cable connects to the drum, the bottom loop of the cable connects to the bottom fixture brackets mounted on the door. This bottom loop of the cable is very susceptible to rust and corrosion, especially in Minnesota! Oftentimes these cables will break, leaving your door completely inoperable until it is repaired. 

What do I do if a cable breaks?

Cable replacement is not for DIYers or handy home owners to attempt. There is an immense amount of energy stored in a garage doors torsion system, just waiting to be released. Garage door torsion systems should only be serviced by professionals. If a cable breaks, do not attempt to open or close the door, this is dangerous and can cause more damage and can cost you more money! Leave the door where it is, unplug your garage door opener, exit the garage and call a professional garage door service company immediately! 

How can I keep this from ever happening in the first place?

If you want to prevent this from happening, keep salt and water away from your door, check for rust on your cables and bottom fixture brackets, and get your door professionally inspected once a year to replace the cables before they break. At Gunderson Garage Door LLC we recommend replacing your cables every time you replace springs. It is easier and cheaper to replace cables when you’re replacing the springs. Unless your cables are completely rust free, it is worth the extra money. Ask about replacing bottom fixture brackets as well. Those brackets are equally, if not more, susceptible to rust as the cables are. Though they are less likely to break from rust.

Have questions about torsion cables?  Give us a call today!  (612)470-3138