How to remove rust from the garage door?
Your garage door is likely the first thing people notice about your home..and a rusty garage door can give a negative impression of your house. Not only does it look unappealing, but it can also lead to costly damage if not cleaned correctly.
Most modern garage doors are rust-resistant, but if you have a steel garage door (which is the most common garage door material), it may eventually become rusty simply from years of use and drastic weather climate changes. Having garage door rust is quite common in places where snow, rain and other rust-causing materials like dust or road salt collect. If you live near the ocean, your garage door can likely rust due to humidity in the air/ocean breeze.
As rust can spread quickly, it can eventually start eating holes in the steel garage door. It is crucial to get the rust off your garage door as soon as you notice.
Here are 5 easy steps to remove garage door rust.
1. Wipe down the rust
Vinegar is effective in dissolving rust. Use a wet cloth soaked in white vinegar and wipe down all rusted areas of your garage door with it. Next, use a steel-wool pad to scrub your door and get rid of all the rust. Even a tiny amount of rust can start the oxidation process and continue growing.
2. Fill in all holes
Rust, if left uncared for, can cause holes in your garage door. Fill the holes (if any) using an auto body filler or any other bonding agent for metal. Once the bonding agent has dried, sand it with a fine-grit sheet. Do it on your entire door. When you’re done, wipe the dust with a dry cloth or a brush.
Note: It may be easier and more effective to replace your garage door if the rust is widespread or the door is old. If your garage door is near the end of its lifespan, please feel free to contact ALL Garage Door and Gate experts 747-261-0570. Sometimes only the bottom panel of your door is affected by rust. You can replace the individual panel instead of replacing the entire door. Talk to our professional garage door technicians to explore more options.
3. Wash the door
Before applying paint to your garage door, it’s essential to clean your door thoroughly. This is because the paint won’t adhere to grease or dirt, and it can also leave bumps on the surface. To wash your door, you can use a solution of trisodium phosphate (TSP) mixed in warm water. If it’s not available, any solution of warm water and soap will work as well. Additionally, you may wash your garage door with water and let it dry completely prior to painting.
4. Cover specific areas on the door
Once you’re done cleaning the garage door rust and are ready to paint, cover your door’s handles, window panels, and nearby walls. You can do so by covering paper over them and securing them with tape. This will avoid paint getting onto the areas that you do not want to paint.
5. Paint of the door
Before painting your garage door, it is advisable to apply primer or undercoat to your door to ensure better adhesion. Some steel doors come primed from the manufacturer so make sure to ask your favorite garage door company about it. If it isn’t already primed, use rust-resistant primer and paint designed for metal garage doors. In the same way, check if your garage door’s manufacturer recommends specific products and techniques.
Last but not least, if your garage door is under a warranty that covers rust, avoid removing the rust yourself. Contact your garage door manufacturer and ask them to clear your garage door’s rust.
