Garage door corrosion can be a major problem, especially with steel doors. Even the best garage doors need care and maintenance and they’re only as good as the condition they’re in.
You might not give much thought to your garage door, but it’s one of the most important features of your property. A garage door protects both your car and your home, not to mention any belongings inside you’ve been meaning to organize. Fortunately, you can effectively safeguard your garage door against corrosion by following these three easy steps:
1. Give Your Garage Door a Bath
You wash your car, so why not wash your garage door? Like any part of your home, regular cleaning is key to keeping it in good shape.
You just need a soft cloth or sponge, mild detergent like dish soap, a hose, and a little elbow grease. Gently scrub the door with soap and water, paying special attention to parts where dirt builds up. Make sure you get the hardware as well, like the tracks and hinges.
Once you’re done, make sure you hose off every last bit of soap, and dry your door thoroughly with a clean towel — don’t just let it air dry. Leaving soap and water on the surface can cause rust.
2. Schedule Regular Checkups
One of the best defenses against corrosion is to make time for regular inspections. Give your garage door a good lookover and ensure there aren’t any scratches, chips in the paint, or areas where metal is exposed.
If you do find something, you’ll want to touch it up with rust-resistant paint right away. This also goes for your hardware; if it shows any signs of rusting, get some lubricant and oil those parts thoroughly. A tiny flaw now can lead to big repairs down the line if it’s left unaddressed.
For the most comprehensive inspection, schedule a checkup with a professional.
3. Weatherproof Your Garage Door
Besides the occasional wayward baseball, the number one enemy of your garage door is also why you need one: inclement weather. While your garage door is built to face rain, sleet, and snow, wear and tear will catch up to it eventually if you’re not careful.
Make sure the weather stripping around the edge of your door is intact, and if it’s not, replace it. Also, if you haven’t already, apply a weatherproof sealant to your door’s exterior for extra protection against the elements.
A Beautiful Garage Door Awaits You
Need more help conquering corrosion? The pros at D Bar Garage Doors provide same-day service in the Portland metro area. Contact us to schedule your appointment today.
