Rust is a common problem in many areas of residential property, including garage doors. This is especially true for areas with high humidity or exposure to saltwater. Moreover, rain can cause a garage door to rust, especially if the water builds up and flows or sits against the door.
Fortunately, there are ways to protect your metal garage door from rust.
What is Rust?
Rust, or iron oxide, is a form of corrosion that occurs when metal is exposed to air and moisture. A chemical reaction causes a reddish-brown substance to form on the metal surface. Rust not only looks ugly but can also weaken the metal.
Factors That Contribute to Rust
As mentioned above, water and humidity can cause rust and corrosion. This is also why snow can eventually lead to a rusty garage door. Using salt on the snow will lead to faster corrosion, so you may see rust on your garage door as soon as the snow melts.
Sometimes, leaving a garage door dirty can also lead to rust. Dirt tends to trap oxygen and water on the surface. It often contains chlorides that can make rust appear faster.
Lastly, if your garage door is made of a thinner metal, it will rust faster.
Protecting Your Garage Door From Rust
The best way to prevent your garage door from rust is to clean and inspect it regularly. Most of the time, all a typical garage door needs are mild soap and warm water. This will remove dirt and built-up grime.
After cleaning the door, inspect it for early signs of corrosion or rust. These usually appear as discolored or rough patches on the metal surface.
Typically, a garage door only needs cleaning twice a year. But, if you live by the coast or in an area where it snows, you may need to clean it more often.
Other ways to prevent rust include the following:
- Painting the door: High-quality paint will provide a barrier against moisture. You will need to add a metal primer to enhance rust protection.
- Keep the door dry: This is not the most practical option because it will mean drying your door every time there is a storm. However, you can implement drip caps along your gutters so stormwater runoff does not keep hitting the door. Weatherstripping may also reduce water contact.
- Invest in rust-resistant garage door material: If your garage door is beyond saving, consider investing in a new one made from rust-resistant or corrosion-resistant metal.
Removing Rust from a Metal Garage Door
If your garage door is rusted but the damage is not too severe, you may be able to get rid of it. If the metal is soft in places or pitted, it may mean the rust has infiltrated it completely.
You can try and remove the rust from your garage door using the following steps:
- Make sure the garage door is completely closed.
- Fill a bucket with mild dish soap or detergent.
- Clean off dirt, sand, and other debris using a soft-bristled broom.
- Get white vinegar and soak a small cloth in it.
- Scrub the rusty areas of the door with a steel wool pad. Wipe the scrubbed areas with the vinegar cloth.
- If the rust is stubborn, you can use sandpaper to sand off the rusted spots lightly.
- When the door is smooth again, and the rust is gone, coat the affected areas with a metal-appropriate primer.
- Paint over the primer with the same color that your door is painted with (if not painted, you will have to paint the entire door).
When to Call a Professional
Most of the time, you can prevent or remove rust on your own. However, if your metal door is rusted to the point where it is structurally unsound or if you do not know how to get rid of the rust, calling a professional is a good idea.
You may need help if your garage door’s rust has spread over large sections. You will also need help if your garage door has large dents or deep scratches, which may lead to rust formation.
A professional can help you clean and maintain your garage door, expanding its lifespan and protecting it from rust.
Your Metal Garage Door Can Look Great All Year Long
Protecting and maintaining your metal garage door is a year-round process, even if you clean it only twice a year. By following the above steps and being proactive about preventing rust formation, you can keep your garage door looking great for many years.
