Rust doesn’t just affect a garage door’s appearance. It can eventually impact its function and require costly repairs. As the leading provider of garage door repairs in Brooks, KY, Action Overhead Door understands the importance of keeping the surface rust-free.
Find out how to remove rust from garage doors in this helpful guide. Follow the tips below for preserving your equipment.
What Causes Rust Formation on Garage Doors?
Before we dive into the solutions for garage door corrosion and rust, you should first understand what causes rusting. It’s not just garage doors that can rust over time. Any metal object, from bicycle racks to gutter downspouts, could quickly rust when exposed to both moisture and oxygen.
This process, called oxidation, deteriorates metal and causes it to turn a distinct orange-brown color. Factors that may make your door more prone to rusting include:
- The climate: Humid air and rainy conditions increase the risk of oxidation. Salty air can be especially corrosive, putting homes in coastal areas at risk.
- Ineffective coatings: Protective paint or metal coatings help prevent oxidation. If your door has a low-quality coating, the metal could soon be exposed to harmful moisture.
- Surface damage: Even with a strong paint or coating over the metal, the smallest dent or scratch could compromise the door’s material.
How To Remove Rust From a Garage Door in Four Simple Steps
Transforming a worn-out metal door is sure to improve your property’s curb appeal. In addition, clearing rust helps preserve the metal so the door’s structure doesn’t weaken. But how can you make a rusty surface look like new?
Here are the garage door rust removal tips that experts swear by.
1. Clean the Surface
Before professionals can remove rust from a garage door, they need to address other harmful substances on the surface. Getting rid of dirt and grime is the first priority when restoring the door.
Create a mixture of mild soap and water to soak a sponge in. Then, gently wipe any traces of dirt away. Before moving on to the next step, make sure to dry the surface completely.
2. Scrape Away Visible Rust
Experts often use sandpaper or wire brushes on rusted sections of the door. These materials effectively remove loose rust and expose the metal.
At this stage, it’s crucial to scrape away rusty spots while being mindful of areas not yet impacted by oxidation. Accidentally scratching an unaffected portion of the door may cause the rust to spread.
3. Apply a Rust Remover
Eliminating loose or flaking rust is a partial solution. To target the remaining rust, apply a chemical solution that’s safe for any metal surface. Various commercial products will do the trick, though some people even use white vinegar to remove rust from garage door surfaces.
Leave the mixture on the surface for the recommended amount of time for the best results. When it’s time to remove the product, wipe it away with a clean cloth. Clean the surface once more with some soap and water to ensure no chemical residue remains, and wipe it dry.
4. Restore the Surface With Paint and Primer
All of the rust removal work will be for nothing if you skip this step. As long as the raw metal continues to be exposed, rust will be a possibility. That’s why experts always paint over the door for both improved aesthetics and a long-lasting finish.
They’ll typically start by applying a primer for an added layer of protection. Once that dries, they can enhance the door with one or two coats of durable exterior paint.
Pros and Cons of DIY vs. Professional Rust Removal
Some property owners are eager to remove rust from garage doors and immediately jump into a DIY project. While handling this yourself can be cost effective, there are a few drawbacks to keep in mind. The work can be quite time consuming and present challenges if you’re not sure what you’re doing.
Hiring professionals is a smart investment and saves you time. You won’t have to worry about getting your hands dirty or risking an injury when you rely on experts. If your garage door needs complex repairs before rust removal, skilled technicians will handle them with ease.
Tips for Preventing Rust on Your Garage Door
While it’s possible to remove rust from garage doors, experts urge property owners to prevent damage in the first place. Properly cleaning and maintaining a rusted garage door will improve your curb appeal and protect your investment. Follow these tips for preventing rust on metal garage doors:
- Choose the right coating: Protect the surface with a durable coating, especially if you live in a humid or rainy region. Add a coat of primer along with weatherproof exterior paint.
- Regularly inspect the door for damage: Make a habit of checking the door for dents or scratches, and don’t delay repairs.
- Clear salt, dirt, and grime: Gently wipe away any buildup of salt or dirt on the door to prevent corrosion.
- Improve drainage around the garage: Be mindful of any puddles that form around the door or vegetation around the area that may trap moisture. Eliminating excess moisture near the door is key to preventing rust.
- Lubricate moving parts: It’s difficult to remove rust from garage door rollers, tracks, and other moving parts. Use a silicone spray on these areas to repel moisture and improve the system’s operation.
Discover Professional Solutions for Damaged Garage Doors
It may not be enough to just remove rust from your garage door. Measures like lubricating garage door rollers and inspecting springs are also necessary to keep the entire system working properly. For help maintaining your equipment, reach out to Action Overhead Door.
We install and repair both residential and commercial garage doors. Whether you hear strange noises when operating your system or the door won’t lift, our team is ready to help.
Give us a call at (502) 955-7725 to request a service in the greater Louisville area. We operate five days a week, though 24-hour emergency services are also available.
