Steel doors tend to require far less maintenance than the wooden counterparts. Unlike a wooden or glass garage door, steel doors are usually supplied with a baked or pre-painted coating. Generally this will not need any type of repainting or repair for at least a few years. However there are some basic elements of care and maintenance, which can extend the longevity and lifespan of your door.
Keeping steel doors in outstanding condition
Basic cleaning of your door can actually be a fantastic method of preventative maintenance. Ideally the door should be cleaned at least every six months. Usually cleaning will not require anything stronger than warm soapy water and a sponge or soft cloth. It is important to refrain from using harsh cleaning materials. Garage Door Repair Malibu advises their customers to take special care if using a power washer, which could cause damage to the finish or bottom seal.
Treating rust is important. Rust spots can be extremely damaging to any steel door. Ideally any spot should be treated as quickly as possible to limit the damage caused. Rust treatment requires the area to be cleaned and properly sanded. Remember that the surface of garage doors must be even but not very smooth or the coat won't adhere properly. It is important to allow the area to completely dry before attempting to apply any form of primer. Generally oil based products provide the best finish as a primer. Once the area has been primed, you will need to allow it to fully dry before applying one of several powder coats of your chosen color. To ensure a smooth and neat finish, mask off any areas which have not been sanded to protect them.
Of course, as it happens with any type of door, it is important to engage in regular maintenance. This can include lubrication of the various garage door parts including cables, tracks and hinges. This will ensure a smooth motion is maintained and allow the opportunity to spot any potential repair issues before they have a chance to develop into major problems.