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Have you noticed rust forming on your garage door? It is a common problem that can make even the best-looking garage doors look old and worn. But more than just an eyesore, garage door rust can lead to serious damage if left unchecked. How do you repair this rust before it becomes worse, and what causes it to form? In this blog from Titan Garage Doors Quad Cities, we will explore the top reasons why rust appears and give you simple tips to prevent and repair it. Let us dive in and keep your garage door looking its best.
Common Causes of Garage Door Rust
Do you see rust on your garage door? Rust is not just a sight; it can also make your door less functional and shorten its life. Let us explore the common causes of rust and how to prevent it.
Moisture Exposure
Does the unpredictable weather constantly affect your garage door? Rain, snow, and humidity are the biggest culprits when it comes to rust. If water is frequently splashing on your door or pooling nearby, it can slowly eat away at the metal. Even in dry climates, high humidity can still cause rust to form over time.
Salt Exposure
Do you reside near a body of water or in an area where winter salt coats the roads? Salt is another common cause of rust formation. Salt from the air near the coast or de-icing salt from winter roads can easily land on your garage door and make it rust faster. Without regular cleaning, that salty residue can build up and eat away at the metal surface.
Lack of Proper Maintenance
When was the last time you cleaned or inspected your door? Regular garage door maintenance is vital to prevent rust. Dust, dirt, and moisture can settle into the door’s surface if left unchecked, creating the perfect conditions for rust.
Cheap or Poor-Quality Materials
Are the materials used to construct your garage door high-quality? Rust can show up on doors made of less expensive metals that do not hold up well in severe weather. Low-quality garage doors may not come with protective coatings, making them more prone to rusting. Choosing durable, rust-resistant materials upfront can save you from headaches down the road.
Scratches or Damage to the Door’s Surface
Have you ever noticed a dent or scratch on your garage door? Even small scratches can expose the underlying metal to moisture, leading to garage door rust. Once the protective paint or coating comes off, either from normal wear and tear or an accidental scratch, rust can set in fast.
How to Fix Garage Door Rust
Is your garage door starting to show signs of rust? Do not worry—rust on a garage door is common, but it is fixable. Here are some simple steps you can take to remove rust and keep your garage door looking great:
Clean and Scrub Off Rust
First, you will need to get rid of any loose rust. Grab a wire brush or sandpaper and gently scrub the rusted areas. Once the rust is off, clean the surface with a mild detergent and water. Make sure to rinse well and dry the door completely. Why? Leaving any moisture behind can lead to more rust later on.
Apply Rust Neutralizer
After cleaning, you will want to stop the rust from spreading. A rust neutralizer can help with that. It works by converting the rust into a stable material that will not keep eating away at your door. Apply the product to the rusty areas by following the directions on the package. In just a few minutes, you will have a door that is ready for the next step.
Prime and Repaint the Garage Door
Have you ever wondered why some garage doors seem to rust faster than others? It is because they lack protective paint. After neutralizing the rust, apply a rust-resistant primer to the affected areas. Once the primer dries, paint the door with an exterior-grade paint made for metal surfaces. That will protect the door from future rust and keep it looking new.
Use Sealants or Protective Coatings
Want to make sure rust stays away for years to come? Protect with a waterproof sealant or protective coating. These products shield the metal from moisture, preventing corrosion.
Preventing Garage Door Rust in the Future
Do you want to maintain the beauty and rust-free condition of your garage door for many years to come? Let us explore some easy ways to prevent rust and keep your garage door in top shape.
Choose Rust-Resistant Materials
Are you considering a new garage door? Opt for materials that naturally resist rust. Aluminum and fiberglass doors are great choices because they will not rust like steel does. If you choose a steel door due to its strength, ensure it has a galvanized finish or a rust-resistant coating. It will give you the durability of steel without the worry of rust.
Install a Garage Door Seal
Does your garage door let in water during storms or winter? Water pooling under the door is one of the main causes of rust. By adding a garage door seal, you can block moisture and prevent it from seeping in. A good bottom seal or weatherstripping keeps water, dirt, and even salt from getting to the metal parts of your garage door, helping you avoid rust.
Schedule Regular Inspections
When was the last time you checked your garage door for rust? Regular inspections are key to catching small rust spots before they spread. Make it a habit to look over your door, especially after rainy or snowy weather. Better yet, schedule a professional maintenance check once a year. Experts can spot early signs of rust and fix them before they turn into a big problem.
Clean and Maintain Your Garage Door
Simple maintenance can go a long way in preventing rust. Wash your garage door regularly to remove dirt, debris, and salt that might cause rust. After cleaning, make sure to dry it well. Also, keep the metal parts of your garage door dry by lubricating the parts that move.
Garage Door Maintenance Near Me
Is garage door rust becoming a bigger problem? Do not wait until it spreads further! At Titan Garage Doors Quad Cities, we specialize in garage door maintenance, repair, and panel replacement to handle rust issues. Whether it is a small spot or significant damage, we have got you covered. Plus, we provide flexible payment options so that you can fix the issue right away and pay later. Contact us today for a free estimate.
