Factory-applied finishes on steel garage doors are baked-on. This special coating is designed to make your doors maintenance free for years to come. However, a good annual cleaning can restore their appearance and give your home a fresh new look.
This spring, if you want to spruce up the appearance of your garage doors, here are 5 simple tips to assist you.
Best Practices for Cleaning Painted Steel Garage Doors
Tip #1
Choose a simple cleaning solution without scouring powders or industrial solvents.
Option A
One-cup Simple Green
Two gallons warm water
Option B
One-cup household ammonia
Five gallons warm water
Note: Never mix bleach with cleansers or detergents.
Tip #2
Use the right tool. Choose one:
- Well-soaked cloth
- Sponge
- Very soft bristled brush
- Low-pressure spray washer
Tip #3
Work from the bottom to the top washing the entire door with either solution.
Tip #4
If your door still has mildew, try a new solution.
Option C
One-cup household bleach
One-cup mild dish soap (Ivory/Dawn)
Give gallons warm water
Tip #5
Once the door is washed, rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Note: Failure to remove all residue from cleaning solutions can damage the garage door surface.