Understanding the Role of Garage Door Cables
Garage door cables carry a heavy load every day. They connect to the torsion or extension springs, enabling smooth lifting and lowering of the door. In other words, without these cables, your door would be completely inoperable.
Most importantly, if one cable snaps or becomes worn out, the entire system becomes unstable. As a result, this can put a lot of strain on the other parts, increasing the risk of further damage. I’ve seen many people ask whether it’s okay to replace just one cable instead of both—especially when only one looks damaged.
It’s tempting to think that fixing one is enough. However, to clarify, the cables work together and should ideally wear out evenly. That’s why it’s essential to evaluate the pros and cons before making a decision.
When Is It Acceptable to Replace Just One Cable?
There are situations where replacing only one garage door cable might seem reasonable. For example, if the broken cable is new and the other is in great shape, you might think it’s cost-effective to swap out just the damaged one.
However, garage doors rely on balance. Therefore, when only one side has new tension and the other is worn, the system becomes uneven. I’ve noticed this often leads to misalignment and jerky movement during operation. Moreover, the older cable may soon fail, bringing you back to square one.
Secondly, technicians often warn that mismatched cables can wear down your door tracks or motor. In addition, this puts your safety at risk. So while one cable might seem fine, it’s usually wiser to inspect and match them both.
The Dangers of Operating with One New Cable
Having one new and one old garage door cable creates uneven tension. Consequently, the motor has to work harder to open the door. This can strain your opener, shortening its lifespan and increasing your repair bills in the future.
I once replaced just one cable for a friend, thinking I was doing him a favor. However, within days, the older cable snapped. To clarify, the imbalance made the system unpredictable and unsafe. Garage doors are heavy, and an unexpected failure could cause severe injuries or property damage.
Above all, the safety factor makes a big difference. A broken cable doesn’t just affect movement—it compromises the entire mechanism. To avoid those risks, I always recommend booking a garage cable replacement to handle both sides.
Pros of Replacing One Garage Door Cable
Firstly, there’s the cost advantage. Replacing a single cable is obviously cheaper than replacing both. In addition, the job is quicker and might not require extensive disassembly. If the door is relatively new, and one cable failed due to an isolated issue, one replacement could be justifiable.
But that’s only if you’ve confirmed that the other cable is structurally sound. For instance, if the wear levels are significantly different, it can become a long-term maintenance headache. In the same vein, some cables might stretch differently over time, leading to uneven lifting.
Moreover, opting for one cable replacement without inspecting the entire door system may hide deeper issues. That’s why I always suggest getting a full system check during any repair job.
Cons of Replacing Only One Cable
Let’s be honest—replacing only one cable rarely works out in the long run. While the short-term savings are tempting, the long-term risks and costs are often much higher. Secondly, you’re likely to face another breakdown soon.
In addition, technicians may charge another service fee when the second cable fails. So, what looked like a cost-saving move could end up costing more. I had a client who made this exact mistake, and within a week, the imbalance caused a full system shutdown.
Similarly, repeated tension inconsistencies can damage springs, rollers, and tracks. That’s why most professionals—and I—suggest complete replacement in most scenarios. If you’re uncertain, it’s smart to schedule a garage door inspection before proceeding.
When You Should Replace Both Cables
The best time to replace both cables is when one has already failed and the system is several years old. Likewise, if you’ve never replaced them and you’re hearing odd noises or noticing uneven door movement, that’s a clear sign it’s time.
Furthermore, if you’re replacing garage door springs, it’s efficient to change the cables too. That way, the entire system functions as a unit again. After that, you won’t have to worry about mismatched wear levels affecting performance.
If safety and reliability are your top concerns, I highly recommend booking emergency garage door service when you spot any cable issues. It’s better to resolve them fast before further damage occurs.
What If Only One Cable Looks Damaged?
It might seem logical to act only on what you see. But, appearances can be deceiving with garage components. That is to say, one cable may look intact but could have internal fraying or hidden corrosion.
To clarify, it takes a trained eye to assess the true condition of garage door cables. Similarly, door systems often fail in chain reactions—starting small but escalating fast. So, replacing just one cable based on surface wear is usually not a safe call.
Instead, always consider your garage door as an interconnected system. In conclusion, even if only one cable seems bad, check both or consult an expert.
How to Know If Your Garage Door Cable Needs Replacement
There are a few clear warning signs you should never ignore. Firstly, if the door lifts unevenly, makes squeaking sounds, or jerks during movement, your cables might be worn.
Further, visible fraying, rust, or slackness on either cable means you’re at risk of a sudden break. In those cases, I always recommend immediate attention. You can contact a technician for fast service to avoid system failure or injuries.
Likewise, any hesitation in your opener’s response or loud popping noises can also suggest cable tension issues. Don’t wait—early repair saves you from bigger expenses later.
Final Thoughts on Garage Door Cable Replacement
To sum up, replacing just one garage door cable may seem like a money-saver, but it carries many risks. Uneven wear and balance issues could damage the entire system. Consequently, full replacement is usually the safest, most cost-effective solution.
In conclusion, your garage door needs consistent tension and stability on both sides. I always advise scheduling professional service if you suspect a cable is damaged. That way, you can ensure everything is safe and efficient again.
When in doubt, it’s always better to book a full inspection or repair rather than gambling on a partial fix. Garage Door Services Calgary is here to help you stay secure and stress-free.
FAQs
1. Can I replace just one garage door cable if the other looks fine?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. Uneven cable tension can damage your garage system over time. It’s safer to replace both cables together.
2. How do I know if my garage door cable is about to fail?
Look for signs like jerky movement, rust, fraying, or uneven lifting. These are early warnings that one or both cables may need replacing.
3. Will my garage door still work if one cable breaks?
Usually not. A broken cable can cause the door to jam, lean to one side, or become unsafe to use altogether. Avoid forcing it open or closed.
4. How long do garage door cables typically last?
On average, they last 7–10 years, depending on usage and climate. Regular maintenance and timely replacement can extend their lifespan.
5. Should I replace my cables and springs at the same time?
Yes, it’s a good idea—especially if one of them is already showing signs of wear. Coordinated replacements keep your door functioning smoothly.