Cleaning your garage door is a simple and affordable chore that should be done at least twice each year. You’ll need a ladder, gloves (optional), a bucket, and a mild detergent.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the surface and cause discoloration. First, hose down the door to remove loose dirt and grime. Learn more by clicking here.
Use a mild detergent
Although the surface of a garage door is resistant to dirt, grime can eventually eat away at it and reach the layer underneath. You’ll need a non-abrasive cleaning solution to prevent damage and get rid of the buildup. The best option is to use a mild detergent like dish or car soap, mixed with water to create a diluted solution.
Then, select a soft cleaning tool to apply the solution to the door’s surface. A sponge or cloth with a smooth, microfiber surface is ideal. Coarse scouring pads or rags can scratch the finish and cause damage to the material. In addition, you’ll need a ladder to help you reach the highest corners of your garage door.
Before you start washing, take the time to brush off any loose debris and pre-rinse your door with a gentle stream of water from a garden hose or bucket of clean water. You should also remove any rust stains that have developed from metal-to-metal contact. If the stain is stubborn, you can try using a bleach solution but be careful not to let it seep through the paint layer and damage the door’s steel material. Once your door is clean, you should wax it to help protect the finish against future wear and tear.
Pre-rinse the door
Before you begin washing, it’s important to pre-rinse the garage door with a hose or a bucket of water. This helps remove loose dirt and prevents it from being rubbed into freshly cleaned areas by the cleaning detergent. It’s also important to rinse the door after you’re done cleaning so that you don’t leave streaks of soap. If you have stains that won’t come off, you can try a mild bleach solution but make sure to test it on an inconspicuous area first.
You can also use a nontoxic, biodegradable cleaner. The best choice is a simple dish liquid or car wash soap that contains less than 0.5% phosphate. If your garage door is made of steel, you can use an auto wax after cleaning to restore the luster and prevent it from rusting.
Washing your garage door regularly will extend its lifespan and help you spot potential problems before they become serious issues. Be sure to clean the weather stripping and check the hardware and glass panes for damage. Also, remember to lubricate your garage door springs and hinges every six months. This will keep them from getting too dry and brittle in cold weather. A silicone-based lubricant will work well for this job. You can find it at your local repair supply store.
Scrub the door
Your garage door may be made of steel or wood, but it’s still not impervious to the elements. It’s important to set up a regular cleaning schedule and use the proper tools to prevent rust from building up on the surface of your door.
A non-abrasive sponge or brush is a great tool to have on hand when washing your garage door. You can also use an extension pole to reach higher areas. Just be careful not to harm, dislodge, or disturb the safety sensors along the edges of your door or the weather stripping.
Choose a mild detergent to remove stubborn dirt and grime. Dish soap or car wash soap are good choices. They’re affordable and effective against a wide range of common household stains. You can even find a nontoxic biodegradable cleaner, which is better for the environment and your lawn.
Rinse the door thoroughly with a hose or pressure washer on a low setting. Don’t forget to rinse the tracks, hinges, and other moving parts too. Afterward, dry the door with a microfiber cloth to avoid water spots or streaks. It’s a great idea to do this after every time you wash the garage door. This will keep it looking fresh and clean. Plus, it will help to keep rust and other damage at bay. Next blog post.