If you own a steel garage door, you’re probably very happy with it. Steel is known to be tough and durable, which is exactly what many homeowners look for when they’re making their home renovations. It’s also an affordable option that offers incredible curb appeal! However, it’s important to remember that just because your garage door is made of steel doesn’t mean that it can’t get damaged. If you’ve noticed any dents or scratches on your steel garage door or wondered how best to avoid damaging it in the first place—we have some answers for you!
Because they’re durable and long-lasting, these doors will be around for years after other garage doors have been replaced by newer models.
Steel Garage Doors are Durable and Long-Lasting
The majority of steel garage doors have some type of protective coat that protects the inside from rusting or corrosion. The most common types of protection include paint and powder coating which help prevent damage from normal wear and tear along with other elements such as weathering or exposure to sunlight over time.
While these types of coatings will protect your door’s finish from becoming damaged they are not foolproof as they can still chip off over time due to everyday wear and tear occurring within your garage (elevating your vehicle up onto ramps). If any part of this coating begins peeling away then it’s important that you repair it immediately so no further damage occurs which could lead towards rust forming underneath where there was once a layer protecting your metalwork from deterioration caused by water leaking through holes created by cracks in their structure etc..
How to Repair a Garage Door Dent
If you have a dent in your garage door, you may think you need to replace the entire thing. On the contrary, with a few tools and some patience, it’s possible to remove smaller dents from your garage door yourself.
Clean the Area Around the Dent
You can fix the dent with a few simple tools. The first step is to clean the area around the dent. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust and debris from the damaged area, then use a small metal brush or wire brush to clean off any remaining grime. Next, pour some liquid soap onto your finger and apply it evenly over the surface of your garage door where you want to make repairs. For best results, use an oil-based lubricant instead of water-based lubricants because they tend to leave behind residue on painted surfaces which could cause further damage over time if left untreated
Use a Steel Wedge to Get Behind the Dent & Hammer it Out
Now that the dent is lifted and visible, it’s time to take care of it. To do this, you’ll need a steel wedge. For most dents in your garage door, a small steel wedge will work fine. You can find one at any hardware store or home improvement center for less than $10. Place one end on top of the wedge and gently hammer out the dent until you’ve pushed it all out and there is no more visible damage. If you have a dent that spans across a panel, it’s best to leave this one to a professional. The damage can be more than cosmetic, and the cost of repairing could be much higher than what you paid for the door itself. If a dent is not too deep or large, though, you can attempt it yourself with some light sanding and fillers.
While steel is tough and durable, it’s not indestructible, and there are certain things you should do to keep it in as good condition as possible for as long as possible.
How to Repair the Scratch
It’s important to repair scratches on your steel door as soon as possible. Start by cleaning the area. Clean the scratch with a soft, microfiber cloth and warm, soapy water. Dry the scratch thoroughly with a dry cloth, then use a cotton swab to apply rubbing alcohol to the exposed steel. This will help remove any remaining dirt in the scratch.
Once the scratch has been fully cleaned and dried, then it’s time to apply paint to the scratch. You’ll need a rust-proof, exterior-grade paint that specifically states it can be used on steel. Follow all the manufacturer’s instructions to apply the paint properly. Allow the paint to dry before touching it.
If you’re concerned about matching the color to the existing color of the door, apply the paint to a piece of paper or cardboard and hold the painted piece of paper to the door to see how well they match.
How to Avoid Future Scratches
While steel is tough and durable, it’s not indestructible. The better you take care of your garage door, the longer it will last. That includes not using harsh chemicals on it, or scrubbing it with sharp tools like wire brushes or sand paper – these can damage the finish and make your door look older that its years. Take the time to inspect the condition of your garage door every few months.
Some of the more common sources of scratches to look out for include include:
- Pets
- Lawnmowers
- Tools leaned up against the garage door and left there
- Bicycles
- Everyday accidents
Talk to your kids and other members of your family about the scratches you’re seeing on your door. Try to identify the cause, and if you are able to identify the source of the scratches, take action to prevent future scratches.
Know When to Repaint or Replace Your Steel Garage Door
While it’s acceptable to repair one or two scratches on your door, if your door is badly scratched in multiple areas and rusting due to exposure to moisture, you may need to take more dramatic action.
If you’re on a budget, fully repainting your garage door is one way to fix your problem. Contact a professional to sand out the rust and apply more paint to the door. This is a relatively inexpensive way to refresh the look of your door without full-on replacement.
If your garage door is beyond repair, the professionals at Overhead Door Company of Oklahoma City can help! Call today to discuss solutions and potential replacement.
