A wooden garage door typically requires a little more attention than a steel, aluminum, or fiberglass door. This is, in part, due to its susceptibility to moisture, which can cause mold and even rotting if not taken care of properly. If you have a wooden garage door or are considering installing one, then here are some tips to help you perform proper garage door maintenance.
Keep it clean
Wiping down your garage door every few months will help to keep it clean and safe from all the moisture, dirt, and grime that builds up over time. Using a damp cloth should be fine if your door is properly finished and stained. If the stain is already wearing thin, then using a dry, tack cloth will clean it up and keep it in good condition.
When installing your new garage door, you will want to stain or varnish it to create the color and style that you’re looking for and to bring out the natural grain of the wood. As well as this, staining or varnishing your wood door also provides a protective and water-resistant layer. This layer helps to protect the wood from moisture as well as scratches and other types of damage. To keep this protective layer intact, it is a good idea to refinish your garage door every 1-2 years.
Watch out for cracks and chips
If damage to your garage door leaves behind cracks, chips, or holes, then you need to see to these straight away. These areas will absorb water more readily, which can lead to mold and further damage. Any cracks and holes will need repairing as soon as possible. You should also check the integrity of the structure, especially around damaged parts, to ensure that the wood is not becoming soft due to water damage or rotting. Any soft areas of the wood will need repairing by a professional technician.
Essential hardware maintenance
Just like any type of garage door, you’ll also need to regularly check the door’s hardware, such as the hinges, cables, springs, and rollers, for any damage. You should regularly clean and lubricate any moving parts to prevent them from wearing on each other. Also, schedule an annual garage door tune-up to have a professional check for any potential problems.
Maintaining your door properly will help it look good and stay in top condition for much longer. If you need garage door repair or maintenance for your wood garage door, then contact Action Overhead Door for our services in Hilton Head and around Savannah, Georgia.