Does your garage door seem a little worn out from all the other homes in your Lincoln neighborhood? You are not alone. Garage door rust is a common problem that sneaks up on many homeowners. It starts small—a tiny orange spot here, a bit of flaking there. Before you know it, your once-sturdy garage door is creaking, staining, and struggling to open. But do not worry; with a little know-how, you can stop rust in its tracks and keep your garage door looking great for years to come. Let us explore the causes of rust and how to protect your garage door from it.
Common Cause of Garage Door Rust
Let us talk about what causes garage door rust. You might be surprised at how sneaky rust can be.
Exposure to Moisture
Garage door rust often starts because of constant exposure to moisture. When rain, snow, or even high humidity hits the metal surface, it creates the perfect environment for rust to form. If your garage door does not have proper protection or you live in a wet climate, this can happen faster than you think.
Poor Drainage Systems
When water collects around the base of your garage door, it has nowhere to go. Without proper drainage, that moisture stays put, leading to rust, especially on the lower parts of your door. Always check your drainage to help keep your garage door rust-free.
Living Near the Coast
Are you living near the coast? Watch out. The salty air can make rust appear even quicker. In fact, saltwater in the air is harsh on metal surfaces and when you ignore it, can speed up the rusting process. Coastal homes are more likely to be damaged, so it is important to take extra steps to protect your garage door.
Worn-Out Paint or Coating
The paint or coating on your garage door acts as a shield against moisture. Over time, this layer can crack, peel, or wear off. When the metal underneath gets exposed, rust can quickly develop. Regularly checking and touching up the garage door paint can help prevent this.
Lack of Regular Maintenance
When we do not maintain our garage doors, small rust spots can form without us noticing. Over time, these small spots grow bigger and cause more damage. Make it a habit to clean your door and check for rust every so often. Doing so will help it last longer and keep it rust-free.
Now that you understand the common reasons behind garage door rust, you can take steps to protect your home in Lincoln and avoid costly repairs down the road. However, at this point, you may have doubts if that is enough. Well, our trusted garage door repair experts in Lincoln will teach us how to keep garage door rust at bay.
Preventative Measures to Avoid Garage Door Rust
Now, let us tackle some easy ways to keep your garage door from rusting.
Keep Your Garage Door Clean
Cleaning your garage door is one of the best ways to keep it from rusting. Dirt, dust, and even salt from the air can settle on the surface, causing rust at some point. Washing it with water and light soap every couple of months will keep rust away. Do not forget to clean the edges and corners where moisture builds up.
Apply a Protective Coating
A fresh coat of paint or a rust-resistant finish creates a barrier that keeps moisture from reaching the metal underneath. If your garage door’s paint is peeling or worn, it is time for a fresh coat. Make sure you use a paint designed for outdoor use, as it provides better protection against the elements.
Inspect and Repair Weather Stripping
You can keep water and moisture out of your garage by putting weather stripping along the bottom of the door. Once damaged or missing, water can seep in and lead to garage door rust. Check the weather stripping every year and replace it if you see cracks or wear. This small repair can prevent bigger rust issues later on.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Rust does not just affect the surface of your garage door; it can also impact the moving parts. Hinges, springs, and other metal components are prone to rust if they are not properly lubricated. Use a silicone-based lubricant on these parts at least once a year to keep them running smoothly and rust-free.
Keep Your Garage Dry
Moisture is the main cause of garage door rust. To prevent it, make sure your garage is well-ventilated and does not hold too much humidity. If you notice water pooling near the bottom of the door, check your drainage system and redirect water away from your garage.
By following these simple steps, you can keep garage door rust from becoming a problem. Regular maintenance and attention will help extend the life of your door and save you from costly repairs down the road.
Solutions for Existing Rust
When you notice garage door rust, do not wait for it to get worse. Tackling the problem head-on can save you from costly repairs or replacements down the road. Here is how you can fix it and prevent further damage:
Spot Rust Early
Rust usually starts as small, discolored spots on the metal. If you catch it early, it is much easier to handle. Make it a habit to inspect your door every few months, especially after wet weather or if you live in a humid area.
Remove the Rust
If you spot rust, start by cleaning the affected area. Remove the rust with sanding paper or a wire brush. This step might take a bit of elbow grease, but removing the rust completely is essential. After you have cleared the rust, wipe down the area to remove any dust or debris.
Apply a Rust Converter
Rust converters can stop the rust from spreading. This solution is the best product that you can use to keep the rust from getting worse. Just follow the instructions on the label and let it dry all the way through before moving to the next step.
Repaint the Area
Once the rust is gone and the surface is dry, you will need to repaint the garage door. Start with a metal primer to protect the surface. Then, apply a rust-resistant paint to add an extra layer of defense against future rust. Make sure to choose a paint that matches your garage door color for a seamless look.
Replace Severely Rusted Parts
If parts of your garage door are heavily rusted and beyond repair, it is best to replace them. That includes panels or hardware that are too far gone. If you replace the rusted parts, the rest of the door will stay in good shape and work well.
Garage Door Maintenance Near Me
Do you see signs of garage door rust? Do not let your investment go to waste by ruining your property or compromising your safety. At Titan Garage Doors Lincoln NE, we are the experts you need to win the battle against rust and keep your residential garage door in top shape. Whether you need simple maintenance to remove rust, an emergency garage door repair, or a full replacement, our expert team has you covered. Worried about the cost? You should not be! We offer convenient payment plans so you can get the garage door care you need without breaking the bank. Pay over time and enjoy peace of mind now. Call us today for a free estimate.
