How to Clean a Garage or Overhead Door

by Tony Hall - More by Tony Hall

How clean is your garage door? The garage is often turned to a place where more than the car is stored. Exercise equipment, garden tools, bicycles and who knows what else end up in the dark hole known as your garage. The garage door is another part of the house that is often neglected. So why is it important you clean your garage door in addition to your garage? 

Why does a garage door need cleaning?

Of all the doors in the house, the garage door is the one that is most exposed to the elements. Taking the time to clean it regularly will ensure that it stays as presentable as the rest of your home or business. It will also better shield it from damage from the elements if you use the right products.

What is the right way to clean a garage door?

Garage doors are made of different materials and should be cleaned accordingly. However, the cleaning steps are common for most materials are similar:

• Close the door so that you can reach every part of it.
  
• Before cleaning it with water, use a stiff brush to remove mildew, dust bird droppings and other kinds of dirt that is likely to be fixed on it.
  
• Then, using a soft broom, sweep over the entire door. A soft broom ensures that you do not leave any scratches.
  
• Make up a solution of water and mild detergent. Starting right at the top and at the corners, clean the door with a large sponge using wide, sweeping movements so that you get to every part. Work your way downwards towards the bottom.
  
• When you have sponged about a third of the garage door, rinse before starting on the next bit. This ensures that the soap does not start drying on the door while you are still sponging down.
  
• Let the door dry completely before you open it.
  

What type of finish does your garage good have?

Once your garage door is completely dry, you can use products to protect the finishing. If it's a steel door that is pre-painted, you can protect it from the elements by applying some car wax. If the garage door is laminated over steel, or if it has vinyl that has been laid over aluminum or steel, do not use abrasive cleaning products as they can damage the lamination, vinyl or paint. Avoid strong bleach and vinegar. It is advisable to clean your garage door at least once a month.

Who can help?

There are things you can do to keep your residential garage door or commercial overhead door well-maintained. Once the door dries after cleaning, apply lubricant to the rollers, tracks and hinges with a soft cloth. You can also lubricate weather stripping using a silicone-based lubricant.

If you have any concerns or questions while cleaning, contact the dependable Amarillo overhead door company, Willow Creek Overhead Door. Any cleaning and maintenance questions can ably be answered by its trained, professional staff. Don’t hesitate to call the friendly staff for cleaning and maintenance advice, repairs and any information related to garage doors.

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photo courtesy of scottchan / Free Digital Photos