Have you noticed garage door rust creeping into your home in Valley Village or Los Angeles? It is more than just an eyesore. Rust can weaken your door and shorten its lifespan if left unchecked. Fortunately, keeping rust at bay is not hard if you know what steps to take. With Fixxed Garage Doors by your side, you can maintain a rust-free door that lasts for years. Let us explore the reasons for rust formation, how to prevent it, and when to take action before it is too late.
What Causes Rust on Garage Doors?
Moisture and oxygen can cause iron or steel to rust. These are often the cause of problems in places with a lot of humidity or when it rains a lot. Your steel garage door may have a protected layer. But that layer can wear away over time, letting the metal underneath rust. Water can also get through small cracks or chips in the surface of your garage door. If that water goes through, it will speed up the rusting process.
Also, the salty air near the coast, like in Los Angeles, may speed up the rusting process. We all know that salt makes metals rust faster. Knowing about these things can help you choose the best ways to stop rust.
How to Prevent Rust From Forming
To make your garage door last longer, you need to keep it from rusting. Follow these easy steps to keep rust from becoming a problem:
Regularly Clean Your Garage Door
Cleaning your garage door not only maintains the door’s appearance but also prevents moisture, grime, and dust that may induce rust over time. Wash the door down with water and a light soap. Make sure you rinse well so that you do not leave any soap behind.
Pro tip: Stay away from harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia. They can damage the garage panels and the protective layer on your door. Always stick with gentle cleaners designed for metal surfaces.
Apply a Garage Door Coating
Applying a protected garage door coating is important after cleaning the door. This layer keeps wetness away from the metal. Look for a base and paint made to protect metal garage doors from rust. You can also put a clear coat on top for extra protection. We recommend reapplying these coatings every few years or whenever wear starts to show.
Inspect and Repair Chips or Scratches on Your Garage Door
Dents, chips, and scratches can hurt your garage door’s protective covering, leaving it open to rust. On a regular basis, check your door for damage and fix any spots where the finish has worn off right away. Using rust-inhibiting paint for small repairs can help keep rust from spreading.
Garage Door Cleaning Materials to Avoid
Using the wrong cleaning solutions can do more harm than good to your garage door. Avoid using:
- Bleach: While effective for household cleaning, bleach can strip the finish from your garage door, exposing it to rust.
- Ammonia: Like bleach, ammonia is too harsh and may damage the protective coating on your door.
- Abrasive scrubbers: Wire brushes or scouring pads can scratch the surface of the door, allowing moisture to penetrate and cause rust.
Instead, use non-abrasive materials like microfiber cloths or soft sponges for cleaning. Always rinse the door thoroughly after washing to remove any soap residue.
Avoiding Garage Door Rust with the Correct Technique
It might seem like rust is a part of having a metal garage door, but it is easy to avoid if you take the right steps. The best way to keep your garage door from rusting is to clean it regularly, put protection coatings on it, and fix any scratches right away.
If you are not sure or the rust looks like it is spreading, call Fixxed Garage Doors for help. These steps will help your garage door last longer and save you money on fixes in Valley Village.
DIY Garage Door Rust Removal
Do not worry if rust has already shown up on your garage door. If you have the right tools and knowledge, you can usually do it yourself. Here is an easy way of removing rust from garage door panels.
Step-by-Step Rust Removal Process
- Scrape off the rust: Gently remove any small rust from the affected areas with a wire brush or sandpaper.
- Use a rust converter: Using a rust converter will stop the rust from growing and remove its negative effects. Follow the directions on the product to put it on the affected area.
- Cover with primer and paint: Apply rust-resistant paint after the rust converter has dried. Cover the area with paint that matches the rest of your door once the primer is dry.
This DIY method works well for small rust spots. However, if you notice extensive rust damage, it might be time to consult a professional.
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, you cannot solve rust problems on your own. It is best to call a skilled garage door technician if your door has big rust spots or damage to the metal frame. An expert can inspect the door and determine whether it requires repair or replacement. That is especially important for steel garage doors since rust can make them less strong over time. Fixxed Garage Doors in Valley Village and Studio City offers expert garage door rust repair and maintenance. We guarantee the restoration of your door to its optimal state and the prevention of future rust problems.
Tips for Maintaining Your Garage Door Panels
Keeping your garage door rust-free requires regular care. Follow these tips to maintain your garage panels and ensure they last for years to come:
Use the Right Cleaning Materials
Garage doors require specific cleaning solutions. Strong chemicals and cleaners that are too rough can remove the protected layer, leaving your door more likely to rust. As an alternative, use light cleaners like dish soap and water. Use a soft sponge or cloth on tough spots to prevent scratches on the surface.
Schedule Regular Inspections
At least twice a year, check your garage door for signs of rust, dirt buildup, or damage. Look closely at hinges, rollers, and edges, as these areas are more prone to wear. Regular inspections will help you to catch problems early before they escalate.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Rust not only affects the surface of your garage door but can also attack the moving parts. Keep hinges, springs, and rollers lubricated with silicone-based lubricant to prevent rust from developing in these areas.
Garage Door Maintenance Near Me
Do not let garage door rust compromise the safety and curb appeal of your home. Regular professional garage door maintenance is the best way to prevent rust and ensure your door operates efficiently for years. At Fixxed Garage Doors, we offer comprehensive garage door services, from rust removal to preventive care, keeping your door in top condition. Let our experts handle the hard work so you can relax and enjoy a rust-free, reliable garage door. Call us today for professional garage door repair and maintenance in Valley Village.
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