A garage door with a broken cable can be challenging and unsafe to operate.

The cables are essential for balancing the door’s weight and ensuring smooth operation.

If one breaks, you may need to lift the door manually, but it’s important to do so carefully to avoid injury or further damage.

Let’s explore how to lift a garage door with a broken cable safely and what steps to take next.

Understanding the Role of Garage Door Cables

Garage door cables work alongside the springs to manage the door’s weight.

They-

Support the Door’s Movement- Help raise and lower the door smoothly.

Ensure Safety - Prevent the door from slamming shut if the springs fail.

Maintain Balance - Distribute the door’s weight evenly across the system.

When a cable breaks, the balance is disrupted, making the door difficult and dangerous to operate.

Steps to Safely Lift a Garage Door with a Broken Cable

1. Assess the Situation

Inspect the Damage- Confirm that the cable is broken and check for any other issues, such as misaligned tracks or broken springs.

Ensure Safety- Clear the area of people, pets, and obstacles.

2. Disengage the Garage Door Opener

Locate the Emergency Release Cord- Typically a red handle hanging from the opener rail.

Pull the Cord- This disconnects the opener, allowing you to lift the door manually.

3. Gather Assistance

Why It’s Important- Garage doors are heavy, especially with a broken cable.

What to Do- Enlist help to lift the door evenly and prevent strain or imbalance.

4. Lift the Door Manually

Use Proper Technique- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, bend at the knees, and lift with your legs—not your back.

Go Slowly - Lift the door evenly to avoid damaging the tracks or rollers.

Secure the Door- Prop the door open with a sturdy object or clamp it in place to prevent it from falling.

5. Avoid Operating the Door Until Repaired

Why- Using a damaged door can lead to further issues or accidents.

Next Steps - Contact a professional to replace the cable and inspect the system.

Examples and Case Studies

Case Study 1- Residential Garage in Auckland

A homeowner in Auckland faced a broken cable on their single-car garage door.

With the help of a neighbour, they manually lifted the door using the emergency release.

A technician replaced the cable the next day for $200, restoring the door’s functionality.

Case Study 2 - Heavy Double Door in Christchurch

In Christchurch, a double garage door with a broken cable required three people to lift it safely.

The repair involved replacing both cables and cost $350, including a system inspection.

Case Study 3 - Emergency Access in Wellington

A Wellington resident needed urgent access to their car.

They lifted the door with assistance and used a wooden plank to secure it temporarily.

A professional repaired the door within 24 hours for $250.

Risks of Lifting a Garage Door with a Broken Cable

1. Personal Injury

Risk- Garage doors can weigh hundreds of kilograms, posing a risk of strain or injury.

Prevention- Always lift with proper technique and assistance.

2. Further Damage to the Door

Risk- Uneven lifting can damage tracks, rollers, or the door itself.

Prevention- Lift the door evenly and avoid forcing it.

3. Compromised Safety

Risk: An unsecured door can fall unexpectedly, causing harm or property damage.

Prevention- Secure the door with clamps or a sturdy object before working underneath it.

When to Call a Professional

Certain situations require immediate professional assistance

Complex Systems- Double or custom doors with intricate mechanisms.

Additional Damage- Broken springs, misaligned tracks, or damaged rollers.

Repeated Issues- Frequent cable problems indicate underlying system issues.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Garage Door Cable?

The cost varies depending on the door type and location-

Standard Cables- $150–$300, including labour.

Custom or Heavy-Duty Cables: $300–$500.

Additional Repairs- Replacing springs or rollers may increase costs by $100–$200.

Preventing Cable Breaks in the Future

1. Regular Maintenance

Inspect Cables- Look for signs of wear, fraying, or rust.

Lubricate Components- Apply garage door lubricant to cables, rollers, and springs.

2. Balance Checks

Test the Door - Disconnect the opener and lift the door manually. A balanced door should stay in place at mid-height.

Adjust if Necessary- Consult a professional if the door feels heavy or unbalanced.

3. Professional Inspections

Schedule annual inspections to identify and address potential issues early.

FAQs About Lifting Garage Doors with Broken Cables

1. Can I replace a garage door cable myself?

While possible, replacing a cable requires specialised tools and knowledge. Professional repair is safer and ensures proper installation.

2. Is it safe to use the garage door opener with a broken cable?

No. Using the opener can strain the system and cause further damage.

3. How long does it take to replace a garage door cable?

Most repairs take 1–2 hours, depending on the door type and extent of the damage.

Conclusion- How Do You Lift a Garage Door with a Broken Cable?

Lifting a garage door with a broken cable requires caution and proper technique.

Ensure the area is safe, disengage the opener, and lift the door evenly with assistance.

While this can provide temporary access, professional repair is essential for restoring full functionality and safety.

Need expert help?

Contact a trusted garage door technician today to replace your cables and ensure your door operates smoothly and safely!