If you have a wood look garage door, you need to take some special care of it. This type of door is susceptible to damage, so it needs to be inspected periodically to make sure that it is free from rot or pests. When in doubt, contact a garage door specialist for help.
Maintenance of a wood composite garage door
Wood composite garage doors combine the look and feel of real wood with minimal maintenance. As a natural material, wood composite doors can withstand the elements and can be weather-resistant. You can also apply a protective clear coating for your wood composite door. The wood grain should also be inspected regularly for flaking or cracking.
Wood composite doors come in a variety of finishes. They can be enhanced with different metal hardware, including handles, hinges, and step plates. To maintain their beauty, you can give them a fresh coat of wood finish and clean them with water and a mild detergent.
Protecting it from the elements
The first step in protecting your wood look garage doors from the elements is to keep it clean. It is crucial to maintain moisture and dirt away from the garage door and to avoid playing outside too close to it. High-wind damage, particularly if it is directed up your driveway, can damage the panels. Also, it is vital to check the track for loose hardware and debris. Checking the track can also help you detect warping or a damaged panel.
Using a protective finish is critical. Wood can quickly deteriorate if it is not treated properly. Adding a finish to your wood garage door can protect it from moisture and harmful UV rays. With proper care, the finish can last for years. Otherwise, it may start to flake and crack.
Cleaning it
Cleaning your wood look garage door is not a difficult task if you know what to do. The trick is to pay attention to detail. This will go a long way in preserving the beauty of your garage door and extending the life of your weatherstripping. The first step is to wipe down the interior of your door with a clean cloth. You should also give the exterior of your door a thorough scrubbing with a dry cloth.
Using a soft sponge or a microfiber cloth will help you clean the door without damaging its finish. Start from the top of the door and work your way down, using circular motions to loosen dirt. If there are any stubborn dirt marks, you can apply a bleach-water solution. Just make sure to remove the cleaning solution before applying the bleach solution.
Refinishing it
Refinishing your wood look garage door will not only make it look better but will also protect it from harmful factors. First, you must remove the existing finish. Then, you must clean and dry the door properly. You can do this by using a household cleaner. It will remove any dirt and debris that may have accumulated on it.
Regular maintenance is essential for your garage door. It should be checked at least once a year. This will help keep the door from getting ruined by termites. You should also check the weatherstripping regularly. If the door is not properly maintained, it will easily develop cracks, warping, and splintering.
Sloane is an accomplished rock climber, backpacker, cyclist, and skier. He has climbed rocks all over the world, including in Yosemite National Park and on Mount Kilimanjaro. He enjoys backpacking and cycling through beautiful landscapes, and skiing down challenging slopes.