Got A Dirty Garage Door? Get It Clean For Spring

Winter can be rough on garage doors. Many winter elements, such as snow and salt, can negatively impact a garage door. They can leave it dirty or rusty. Now that spring is around the corner, you will want to take the time to clean the door and get it ready for spring. Follow these tips to improve the appearance and function of your garage door.

Clean the Exterior of the Garage Door

Your garage door is exposed to a variety of things that can cause it to get dirty. Dirt and pollen can blow on it when it is windy, and rain can fall over the door. It is recommended that you clean the door one to two times a year to keep it looking great. If you haven't cleaned it in some time, spring is a great time to do this task. Follow these steps to clean your garage door:

1. Fill a bucket with warm water and a couple of squirts of liquid dish soap.
2. Spray the garage door with a hose to dampen it.
3. Dip a soft cloth, sponge or car cleaning mitt into the soapy water. Scrub the door clean.
4. Spray the door with a hose to remove any soap residue.
5. If any spots or stains remain, dilute household bleach in warm water. Scrub the stains away using this mixture and a soft cloth. Spray the door to remove any residue.

Tighten the Roller Track Bolts

It is recommended that you inspect your roller track bolts at least once a year. As your garage door opens and shuts, the tracks may move or vibrate. Over time, this can loosen the bolts. If the bolts are not tightened, your tracks may begin to pull from the walls or ceilings. Fortunately, this is a very easy task to complete on your own.

The type of bolts and screws used to secure garage door roller tracks in place varies based on the manufacturer. As such, you will need to grab the right wrench or screwdriver for the task. Once you have the right tool, start at the top or bottom of the track, examining every screw or bolt until you reach the end of the track. If any are loose or pulling, tighten them up. Repeat the process on both sides of the track. As you complete this task, look for signs that the roller track needs to be repaired. If you notice any bends or dents, a professional may need to be called in to change that section of the track.

Clean the Roller Tracks

The last task you will want to complete to spring clean your garage door is to clean the roller tracks. The roller tracks can become dirty, dusty or grimy. Unfortunately, they can also become rusty. Cleaning the tracks helps to remove all of these elements so the wheels can glide over the tracks as they should and the tracks last as long as they are designed to. Follow these steps to clean the roller tracks:

1. Slightly dampen an old toothbrush that you don't use. Don't make the brush soaking wet. You just want the bristles to be damp so that they are soft and flexible.
2. Rub the toothbrush along the inside of the track to remove grime, dirt and debris.
3. Spray the track with a disc brake cleaner. This can be purchased at any automotive store. Use a soft cloth to wipe away the disc cleaner along with any dirt and residue that lifts from the track.
4. If any rust is present, purchase a rust removing product. This can be found at any home improvement store. Spray the affected area, allow it to soak for the specified period of time and then remove it.
5. Use a clean, dry rag to wipe down the track after cleaning it to ensure all residue and moisture is removed from the track.

Properly cleaning your garage door helps to improve its lifespan, keeps it looking its best and helps to ensure it lasts as long as it is designed to. Winter can be rough on garage doors, so spring is a great time to perform the task of cleaning and inspecting your garage door. Talk to a garage door professional to learn more about how to properly maintain your garage door.