Fall is a perfect time to fix up your garage door so it’s in good shape before the weather gets terribly cold. Spring is also a good time, since winter can take a toll on your door's surface. Follow these instructions for cleaning and/or painting your steel garage door properly.
Cleaning Tips
While steel garage doors are among the easiest types of doors to maintain, they still need a little TLC now and then to stay in good shape for as long as possible. This includes wiping off any dirt or grime that has built up on the door’s surface over time. Keeping your door clean and maintaining the original finish might help you avoid having to repaint it altogether.
To clean, grab a bucket and fill it with five gallons of warm water. Mix in a cup of mild detergent—one that contains less than 0.5% phosphate. Wipe down the inside and outside surfaces of your door with a soft rag or sponge, and rinse the soap off with the hose.
Painting Instructions for Pre-Painted Steel Doors
If your door isn’t cleaned regularly, the dirt that builds up and the elements your door is exposed to could cause the paint to fade. If your door could use a touchup, make sure to prepare your door before you start painting.
How to Prepare Your Steel Door
First, remove any wax on the door’s surface by lightly scuffing it with a gray 3M ScotchBrite pad dipped in soapy water. Rinse your door with clean water when you’re done.
Next, use 0000 steel wool or No. 400 sandpaper to sand out any scratches in your door’s surface. Make sure you don’t smooth out your door’s surface too much, however. If it’s too smooth, the paint will have a hard time adhering properly.
Make sure you don’t sand your door in places where metal substrate has been exposed, and don’t sand hard enough to expose this layer underneath the paint. If it's exposed, your door will be susceptible to rusting.
If the metal substrate is exposed anywhere on your door, lightly sand it then apply quality metal primer to the area. Closely follow the instructions on the label.
Some steel doors are designed with textures to mimic the look of other types of doors, like wood. Don’t buff these textures, or you’ll increase the likelihood of exposing the underlying substrate.
How to Paint Your Steel Door
Once your door is completely clean and dry, you can start painting. Use premium quality latex house paint—NOT oil-based paint. Follow painting instructions on the can label carefully.
Be sure to follow instructions on ALL materials carefully for use and disposal. Keep in mind that repainting a pre-painted steel garage door can’t be warranted since it’s beyond the manufacturer’s control.
If you have questions or concerns about this process or you need garage door repair or replacement service in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, or a surrounding area, contact Door by George. We’re glad to help you at any time!
