Do You Have Rusty Garage Doors? Addressing the Causes

by Loves Doors • October 01, 2021
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Rust is one of the most common garage door problems. If left unchecked, it can leave holes in the surface and compromise the structural integrity. The best fix is to prevent corrosion by addressing the underlying reasons.

Here are the main culprits for rusty garage doors:

Location

The environment can dramatically affect the amount of rust on a garage door. Homes in coastal areas are most vulnerable to this problem due to the salt in the air.

Households in industrial zones are also at a higher risk of garage door corrosion, as harmful chemicals surround them. Northern regions face a similar problem since the de-icing materials used on the roads can splash the door and cause rust.

Inadequate paint jobs and improper maintenance

Homeowners who paint their garage doors on their own are more likely to encounter rust. They often use inappropriate substances that don’t protect the door from corrosion.

Instead of taking the DIY route, consult a seasoned garage door specialist. They will recommend the perfect coating to help ensure the finish lasts much longer.

Not keeping up with maintenance can also give rise to corrosion. Garage doors with deep scratches and punctures require prompt repairs to keep oxygen from reacting with metal and creating rust. Therefore, repair raw metal as soon as you notice it.

Neglecting cleaning duties

Keeping garage doors rust-free requires regular cleaning. Every time the owner washes their car, they should also clean their garage door. It shouldn’t take very long, and it removes any dirt, grime, salt, or chemicals that might have accumulated on the surface. Eliminating these contaminants can dramatically reduce the risk of corrosion.

In addition, be on the lookout for oil stains and grease spots. They can form during drive chain lubrication and harm the paint coating. Remove them on sight.

How to remove rust from garage doors

Remove garage door corrosion as soon as possible to fend off significant issues in the future. Use this mild cleaning solution:

  • Combine equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle.

  • Apply the mixture to the door and let it rest for a couple of minutes.

  • Wipe the door down using a non-abrasive cloth.

If this doesn’t work, try a more aggressive approach:

  • Stir baking soda and water in a container until they form a paste.

  • Spread the solution over the garage door and let it sit for approximately half an hour.

  • Scrub the paste away with water and a clean cloth.

Prevent garage door rust

Prevention is the best ally when dealing with corrosion. To avoid it, hire a licensed garage door professional for more advice on keeping the surface rust-free. They offer comprehensive cleaning services to keep the door in excellent condition and prevent grime build-up. The experts may also recommend using liquid wax for extra protection.

 

Loves Garage Doors specializes in residential garage door and garage door opener repair, installation, and maintenance in Phoenix and surrounding cities. Call (602)346-9516 today!

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