Rust can occur when the iron particles in steel have been exposed to oxygen and moisture. You can find things that have rusted all around, including your car, patio furniture, and hardware. Really anything that is made of steel can be susceptible to rusting, and that includes your garage door. When you spot garage door rust, you need to know how it got there, how to get rid of it, and how to prevent it from rusting again.
Homes that are closer to the water are more likely to experience issues with rust because of higher levels of moisture in the air. Salt water can cause even more damage, but fortunately there is no salt water near Michigan. However, a garage near a street where salt is used for de-icing during the winter can expect to see a larger amount of rust or damage.
The earliest signs of rust on your garage door will appear as small dots or specks that can look like they were stuck there from another source. You will probably notice these specks closer to the bottom of your garage door. Removing these specks as soon as possible will help your garage door avoid rust damage.
Surface stains can be removed effectively with a cloth soaked in white vinegar. The vinegar creates a reaction with the rust, which will cause the rust to dissolve. Follow that by using steel wool to scrub off all the rust. If any rust remains, it could once again spread and cause more headaches.
Rust can create holes in your garage door, and when that happens you should fill them in with a bonding agent that is designed for metal. Let it dry, sand it down, and then give the entire garage door a good wash. Warm water and soap will work well, just give your garage door a good rinse and allow it to dry completely.
The final step may not always be necessary, but you can cover up any damage by painting the garage door. Using a primer and paint that are rust-resistant and that are designed for metal garage doors will yield the best results. Using a paint sprayer will give complete coverage, and will not cause any drips that a brush or roller might leave behind.
In almost all situations, regular maintenance will prevent garage door rust from appearing. This means washing your garage door at least two times each year. When you wash your car in the driveway, you can save trouble by washing the garage door at the same time.
With proper care, you can make your garage door last for years. However, if rust has overtaken your garage door and it is beyond repair, it may be time for a new garage door from Environmental Door. For more information on removing rust from your garage door, or to install a brand new garage door, call the experts at Environmental Door today at 616-453-0164.
