If you are a homeowner, one of the most significant issues you might face is dealing with garage door rust. Rust is not only an eyesore but also a safety hazard that can lead to costly repairs or even a complete replacement of your garage door. Fortunately, dealing with garage door rust is not difficult if you know what to do. In this article, we will take you through everything you need to know about garage door rust, including its causes, prevention, and repair.
Dealing with Garage Door Rust: Causes, Prevention, and Repair
Garage door rust can have several adverse effects on the garage door. First, it can corrode the garage door, leading to the formation of holes and cracks that may compromise the door’s structure. Rust weakens the door’s structure, making it vulnerable to external forces such as wind and rain. Last and most importantly, rust can increase energy consumption as it makes the door difficult to open and close, causing the door opener to consume more energy.
[A]. What causes garage door rust?
Garage door rust occurs due to the reaction of iron and oxygen in the presence of moisture and air. Over time, the rust eats away at the metal, weakening its structural integrity. Some of the common causes of garage door rust include:
#1. Exposure to Moisture
Garage doors that are exposed to moisture are more likely to rust. This can happen when rainwater or snow seeps through gaps in the door or when there is high humidity inside the garage.
#2. Presence of Salt or Other Corrosive Substances
If you live in an area where salt is used to de-ice roads, your garage door is more likely to rust. The salt can get into the cracks and crevices of the door, causing corrosion.
#3. Age of the Door
As garage doors age, they become more susceptible to rust. This is because the protective coatings on the metal can wear away over time, leaving the metal exposed to the elements.
#4. Damage to Paint or Coating:
Scratches or chips on the paint or coating of your garage door can expose the metal underneath to the elements, leading to rust formation.
#5. Other Factors
- Constant changes in temperature
- Scratches and dents on the surface
- Lack of maintenance and cleaning
- The use of corrosive cleaning agents
[B]. Signs of Garage Door Rust
#1. Visual Signs
The most obvious sign of garage door rust is the appearance of rust on the door’s surface. This can appear as reddish-brown patches or streaks on the metal surface. Other signs of rust may include blistering or bubbling of the paint, which can be an indication of rust forming underneath the surface.
#2. Functional Signs
Garage door rust can also affect the door’s function. The rust can weaken the door’s structure, leading to difficulty in opening and closing the door. Additionally, rust can cause the door to become misaligned, leading to safety hazards such as the door falling off its tracks.
#3. Safety Risks
Garage door rust can also pose safety risks. A weakened garage door can fail to support the weight of the door, causing it to fall and potentially cause injury or damage to your vehicle.
[C]. Prevention and Maintenance of Garage Door Rust
#1. Clean and Inspect Your Garage Door Regularly
Regular cleaning and inspection of your garage door can help prevent rust formation. Clean the door with mild detergent and water to remove any dirt or debris. Inspect the door for signs of rust and address any issues as soon as possible.
#2. Appropriate Lubrication
Lubricating the moving parts of your garage door is essential in preventing rust formation. Use a lubricant specifically designed for garage doors, such as silicone spray, and apply it to all moving parts, including the tracks and rollers.
#3. Repainting or Replacing Affected Parts
If you notice signs of rust on your garage door, you can prevent it from spreading by repainting or replacing affected parts. Sand off any rust and apply a rust-inhibiting primer before painting. If the rust has caused structural damage, it may be necessary to replace the affected parts entirely.
#4. Regular Maintenance:
Regularly inspect your garage door for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any scratches or chips in the paint or coating, repair them as soon as possible to prevent rust from forming.
#5. Proper Sealing:
Ensure that your garage is properly sealed to prevent water from seeping in. If you notice any leaks in your roof, have them repaired right away to prevent water from entering your garage.
#6. Rust Inhibitor:
Applying a rust inhibitor to your garage door can help prevent rust formation. Rust inhibitors are readily available at most hardware stores and can be easily applied to your garage door.
[D]. Fixing Garage Door Rust
#1. DIY vs. Professional repair: Which is better?
DIY garage door rust repair is possible, but it requires some experience with metalworking and painting. If you are not comfortable doing it yourself, it is best to hire a professional. Professional garage door repair technicians have the experience, tools, and equipment to repair garage door rust safely and effectively.
#2. How much does garage door rust repair cost?
The cost of garage door rust repair depends on the extent of the damage and the type of repair needed. DIY repairs may cost less, but if done improperly, they can lead to further damage and more expensive repairs in the long run. Professional garage door repair companies usually charge between $100-$500 for rust repair, depending on the severity of the rust and the type of repair needed.
[E]. Steps to Fix Garage Door Rust – DIY
#1. Gathering Necessary Tools and Materials
If you already have rust on your garage door, you can still fix it. To fix garage door rust, you will need a few tools and materials, including a wire brush, sandpaper, rust remover, rust-inhibiting primer, paint, and a paintbrush.
#2. Surface Preparation
The first step is to remove the rust. You can do this by using a wire brush or sandpaper to scrub the rust off the surface of the door. Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any loose rust or paint. Make sure the surface is clean and dry before moving on to the next step and be sure to wear gloves and protective eyewear when doing this to prevent injury.
#3. Applying Rust Remover
Apply a rust remover to the affected area, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Let the rust remover sit for the recommended amount of time before wiping it away with a clean cloth.
After you have removed the rust, you will need to apply a rust converter to the door. A rust converter is a type of chemical that turns rust into a more stable material that can be painted over. Follow the instructions on the rust converter carefully to ensure that you apply it correctly.
#4. Applying Primer and Paint
Once the rust converter has dried, Apply a rust-inhibiting primer to the affected area, making sure to cover all surfaces thoroughly. Once the primer is dry, apply paint to match the color of your garage door. Allow the paint to dry completely before applying a second coat. Be sure to choose a high-quality paint or coating that is designed for outdoor use and can withstand the elements.
#5. Final Inspection and Maintenance
Once the paint has dried, inspect the affected area for any missed spots or areas that need touch-ups. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and lubrication, can help prevent future rust formation.
[E]. Garage Door Rust Prevention Products Available in Market
#1. Rust Inhibiting Primers
Rust-inhibiting primers can be applied to metal surfaces to prevent rust formation. These primers contain chemicals that slow down or stop the rusting process.
#2. Rust Converter and Remover Sprays
Rust converter and remover sprays can be used to remove rust from metal surfaces. These sprays convert rust into a more stable compound, making it easier to remove.
#3. Protective Coatings and Sealants
Protective coatings and sealants can be applied to metal surfaces to protect them from rust formation. These products create a barrier between the metal surface and the elements, preventing moisture and other environmental factors from causing rust.
[F.] FAQs
#1. Can garage door rust be prevented?
Yes, garage door rust can be prevented by practicing regular cleaning and maintenance, applying a protective coating, and addressing scratches and dents promptly.
#2. Can I repair or fix the garage door rust myself?
DIY garage door rust repair is possible, but it requires some experience with metalworking and painting. If you are not comfortable doing it yourself, it is best to hire a professional. Fixing garage door rust requires a few tools and materials, including a wire brush, sandpaper, rust remover, rust-inhibiting primer, paint, and a paintbrush. If you’re comfortable with these materials and tools, you can fix garage door rust yourself.
#3. How often should I clean and maintain my garage door?
It is recommended to clean and maintain your garage door at least once a year, or more often if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions.
#4. How do I know if my garage door has rust?
You can recognize rust on your garage door by looking for reddish-brown patches or streaks on the metal surface. Other signs may include blistering or bubbling of the paint.
#5. How does rust affect my garage door’s function?
Rust can weaken the door’s structure, leading to difficulty in opening and closing the door. Additionally, rust can cause the door to become misaligned, leading to safety hazards such as the door falling off its tracks.
#6. Can I prevent garage door rust from forming?
Regular cleaning, inspection, and lubrication of your garage door can help prevent rust formation. Additionally, applying rust-inhibiting primers or protective coatings can help prevent rust from forming.
#7. How can I maintain my garage door to prevent rust formation?
Regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection of your garage door can help prevent rust formation. Additionally, applying rust-inhibiting primers or protective coatings can help prevent rust from forming.
