Most people don’t think about their garage door until there’s a problem. And one of the most common problems is rust. Undoubtedly, rust can damage the structural integrity of your door and ruin valuable items in your home.
If your garage door shows any signs of rust, it’s essential to take action before the rust spreads and causes further damage. This guide will explain what causes garage door rust and how to fix it. Keep reading for more tips!
What Causes Garage Door Rust?
Rust is a common problem for homeowners, especially with metal garage doors. Over time, the moisture in the air will cause the metal to oxidize and form a reddish-brown powder on the surface. While this may not seem like a big deal at first, rust can cause serious damage to your garage door.
The powdery surface of rust is very abrasive and can quickly wear away the paint and protective coating on your door. In addition, rust will continue to spread beneath the surface of the metal, causing it to weaken and eventually crumble.
Once rust takes hold, it can be challenging to remove, so it’s essential to take steps to prevent it from forming in the first place.
Preventing Garage Door Rust
For instance, you can apply a fresh coat of paint or sealant to your door every few years to help create a barrier against moisture. You should also avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives when cleaning your garage door, as these can accelerate the formation of rust. If left untreated, rust can destroy a garage door, so it’s essential to take preventive measures to protect your investment.
Repairing Garage Door Rust
If your garage door is starting to show signs of rust, you’ll need to take action to repair the damage and prevent it from getting worse. The good news is that you can use a few simple resources to remove rust and restore your garage door to its original condition. All you need is a little elbow grease and the following materials:
- Wire Brush: For scraping off loose rust and paint.
- Rust Converter: To neutralize the rust and prevent further corrosion.
- Paint: To provide a fresh protective layer.
With these supplies, you can quickly remove any rust from your garage door and prevent further damage. So don’t wait any longer; get started on your repairs today!
How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Rusted Garage Door?
The average cost to repair a rusted garage door is $200. However, the actual cost will vary depending on the extent of the damage and the size of the door. If the damage is limited to a small area, you may be able to repair it yourself with a rust-resistant primer and paint. However, if the door is severely rusted, you may need to replace it. The cost of a new garage door ranges from $500 to $1,000. Therefore, it is important to consult with a professional before attempting to repair a rusted garage door.
Steps for Removing Rust from a Garage Door
Fortunately, you can take a few simple steps to remove rust from your garage door and keep it looking its best:
- Clean the Door: Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to remove any dirt, dust, or debris accumulated on the surface. Warm water is recommended to prevent further rust.
- Treat the Rust: There are several commercially available rust removers that will do the trick. Or, you can make your rust remover by mixing equal parts vinegar and baking soda. Apply the mixture to the rust using a steel wool pad or brush. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe away.
- Protect the Door: Once the rust is gone, you’ll want to protect your door from future rusting. Removing rust will stop the oxidation process.
How to Remove Rust from Garage Door Tracks
Over time, garage door tracks can become covered in rust, making it difficult for the door to open and close smoothly. To remove rust from tracks:
- Scrape Off Loose Rust: Use a wire brush to scrape off any loose rust.
- Clean the Tracks: Use a clean cloth to wipe down the tracks with white vinegar or lemon juice.
- Apply Rust Remover: For tougher rust stains, mix equal parts baking soda and vinegar to create a paste. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for several minutes before scrubbing with a wire brush. If the rust is still not coming off, try sanding the area with medium-grit sandpaper.
- Dry the Tracks: Once the rust has been removed, wipe down the tracks with a damp cloth and dry them thoroughly.
How to Paint a Rusty Garage Door
If your metal garage door is starting to show its age, a fresh coat of paint can give it a new lease on life. But before you start painting, there are a few things you need to do to prepare the door:
- Remove Loose Paint or Rust: Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any loose paint or rust.
- Apply Primer: Apply a zinc chromate primer specifically designed for use on metal. The zinc chromate helps prevent further rust. Let the primer dry.
- Paint the Door: Begin painting with a rust-resistant paint. For best results, use a paintbrush or roller designed for use with latex paint. Cover the rusted areas and primed spots left unattended.
- Apply a Second Coat: After applying the first coat, allow it to dry completely before applying a second coat.
Preventing a Rusting Bottom Panel
While a garage door can add style and curb appeal to your home, it can also be subject to wear and tear. One common issue that affects garage doors is rust. Here are some steps to prevent a rusting bottom panel:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your garage door regularly to remove any dirt or debris that could potentially cause rust.
- Apply Protective Coating: Apply a coat of beeswax or silicone spray to your door on a regular basis. This will create a barrier that will help to prevent moisture from causing rust.
- Address Rust Immediately: If you notice any rust appearing to form, be sure to sand it down and repaint the area as soon as possible.
Request a Quote
If you’re dealing with a rusted garage door and need professional help, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us today for a free quote!
By following these guidelines and taking preventive measures, you can keep your garage door in excellent condition and protect your investment. If you need further assistance or a professional touch, Garage Door Restore is here to help.
Got a Rusty Garage Door? Here’s How to Restore Its Good Looks
A rusty garage door can quickly become an eyesore, detracting from your home’s curb appeal and potentially compromising the door’s functionality. Rust is a common issue, especially with steel garage doors, which can be exacerbated by moisture, oxygen exposure, and road de-icing chemicals. Luckily, you can address rust yourself with the right tools and techniques.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to remove rust from your garage door and prevent it from returning.
Identifying Garage Door Rust
Rust on metal surfaces often extends further than it appears on the surface. To identify rust on your garage door, inspect the entire door thoroughly, focusing on the bottom, edges, and any exposed metal surfaces. Look for bubbles under the paint, paint-free spots, or reddish-brown flakes of corroding metal.
Gathering Tools and Materials
To tackle garage door rust, you’ll need the following tools and materials:
- Safety gear: Protective goggles, rubber gloves, and a dust mask to protect against rust particles and paint fumes.
- Steel wool or wire brush: For removing loose rust flakes from the door.
- Sandpaper: Grits ranging from 120 to 400.
- Rust converter and microfiber cloth: A chemical mixture that neutralizes rust and prevents it from spreading.
- Shop vacuum: To remove all particles from the door’s surface before painting.
- Primer and paint: Specifically for outdoor metal surfaces.
- Masking tape and drop cloths: To protect hardware, window trim, and floors during the painting process.
- Screwdriver: For removing hardware to access rust underneath.
Preparing the Area
Before starting, prepare the work area to ensure a smooth process:
- Ensure proper ventilation: If working inside, open windows or keep the door partially open.
- Remove obstacles and hardware: Carefully track where each piece goes for easy reassembly.
- Lay down drop cloths: Protect the garage floor, driveway, and nearby surfaces from rust and paint particles.
Removing Loose Rust and Debris
Use steel wool or a wire brush to remove loose, flaky rust, peeling paint, and other debris from affected areas. Use moderate pressure and a back-and-forth motion to ensure all loose material is removed.
Sanding the Rusty Areas
After removing loose rust, sand the surface smoothly with 120-grit sandpaper. Ensure all traces of rust are gone, then repeat the process with 180-grit sandpaper, and continue with progressively finer grits until you reach 400 grit.
Applying Rust Converter
After sanding, vacuum the surface thoroughly to remove all dust particles. Spray the rust converter over the entire sanded area, following the instructions on the can. Use a microfiber cloth to spread the converter evenly. Allow the converter to dry as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Priming and Painting
Once the rust converter is completely dry, apply a spray-on primer specifically formulated for metal surfaces. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. After the primer dries, apply exterior-grade paint that matches your garage door’s original color as closely as possible. Spray paint often yields smoother, more even results, but a paint can and roller might be more economical for large areas. Apply a second coat once the first coat dries.
Preventing Future Rust
To keep your garage door rust-free, follow these tips:
- Inspect regularly: Address small rust spots immediately to prevent them from spreading.
- Keep it dry: Ensure the area around the door is well-drained and free from standing water.
- Clean regularly: Wipe down the door every month to remove dust, debris, and corrosive substances.
- Check rubber seals: Ensure they are in good condition and effectively keeping out moisture.
Request a Quote
If dealing with rust on your garage door seems daunting or you prefer professional assistance, contact Garage Door Restore for expert help. We provide free quotes and professional services to keep your garage door in top condition.
