What to Do If Your Garage Door is Rusting

When it comes to garage door materials, steel is often touted as one of the best choices you can make. A steel garage door is secure, hardwearing and long-lasting, making it a great investment for your property, but if it’s not well-maintained, rust can begin to take hold and can quickly compromise both the appearance and operation of your door.

Rust doesn’t merely create an unsightly discolouration—it actively deteriorates the metal components of your garage door, potentially leading to expensive repairs or premature replacement. In this guide, we’ll explore how to identify the early signs of rust, understand the root causes behind it, and provide tips for immediate and long-term solutions to keep your steel garage door in optimal condition.

What Are the Causes of Garage Door Rust?

Several factors contribute to garage door rust, with moisture being the primary culprit. Environmental conditions play a significant role here—homes in areas with high humidity or coastal regions with salt-laden air face can face bigger problems with rusting.

Direct water exposure from rain, sprinklers or flooding also creates ideal conditions for oxidation, especially when water is allowed to pool around the bottom of the door. Ageing is another inevitable factor—even well-maintained doors will eventually show signs of wear as protective coatings break down over time, leaving the metal exposed.

Signs of Garage Door Rust

Identifying rust early can save you from major headaches down the road, so it pays to schedule in regular inspections of your garage door to deal with any problems before they develop. The most obvious sign is visual—you’ll notice orange or reddish-brown patches appearing on the surface, often starting at edges, seams or scratched areas where the protective coating has been compromised.

As rust progresses, you might notice flaking or bubbling of the paint, or even small holes in severe cases. Beyond the visual cues, you should also pay attention to operational changes. A rusting garage door often announces itself through unusual sounds—grinding, squeaking or scraping noises that weren’t present before.

You might also notice the door becoming increasingly difficult to open or close smoothly, or that it seems to stick in certain positions. The bottom panels of your door are particularly vulnerable here since they’re closest to ground moisture and road salt splash.

Preventing Rust During Winter Months

Proactive measures can significantly reduce winter rust issues. Establish a regular cleaning routine to remove salt, dirt, and debris from your garage door—a simple rinse with clean water can wash away corrosive substances before they cause damage. Pay special attention to the bottom panel and hardware, where salt and moisture tend to build-up, and dry the door as much as possible.

Ensure there’s proper drainage around your garage too by keeping gutters clear and directing downspouts away from the door to prevent water from pooling at the base. It can also help to install effective weatherstripping around the perimeter of your door and insulate the interiors to keep out moisture and reduce condensation inside the garage. After snowstorms, promptly remove snow piled against the door rather than allowing it to melt and refreeze against the metal surface.

Treating Existing Rust

When you discover rust on your garage door, you need to take prompt action. Begin by assessing the extent of the damage—surface rust appears as a light coating that hasn’t yet pitted the metal, while more advanced rust creates visible pitting, flaking or even holes in the metal.

For light surface rust, you can often address the problem yourself with some elbow grease and the right supplies. Start by thoroughly cleaning the affected area with a degreaser to remove any dirt or oils, then use a wire brush, steel wool or medium-grit sandpaper to physically remove the rust, working until you reach clean, solid metal.

After removing the rust, immediately apply a rust-inhibiting primer to prevent the rust from coming back. These primers contain zinc and other compounds that actively resist oxidation. Once the primer is dry, apply high-quality exterior paint designed for metal surfaces, preferably in multiple thin coats rather than one thick layer.

For severely rusted sections, particularly if the metal has been compromised structurally, replacement may be more cost-effective than repair. Hardware components like springs, hinges and rollers are typically easier to replace than repair when rust is significant.

Long-Term Rust Prevention Strategies

Establishing a regular maintenance routine is your best defence against rust issues. Schedule regular inspections—ideally quarterly, with special attention before and after winter—to catch potential problems early.

It also helps to develop a cleaning protocol and apply lubricants to moving parts using silicone-based products that won’t attract dirt or grime. You might also consider upgrading to galvanised or stainless steel hardware when replacing damaged components, as these materials offer superior rust resistance.

Some homeowners find value in applying clear protective coatings or waxes designed for metal surfaces, which can provide an additional barrier against moisture and corrosive elements. Finally, consider scheduling professional maintenance at least annually. Experienced technicians can spot early signs of potential issues and address any necessary repairs.

Rust might seem like an inevitable problem for metal garage doors, but with vigilance and proper care, you can significantly extend the life of your door while maintaining its appearance and functionality. The key lies in understanding that rust prevention is far more effective than rust treatment.

For more advice on how to care for your garage door, or to enquire about installing a new door for your garage, contact the team at Wessex Garage Doors today.