Despite their aesthetic appeal, aluminium garage doors are also known to be cost-effective thanks to how low maintenance they are. As with everything, there is a catch though! Aluminium garage doors need to be maintained and looked after so that they can remain in their best condition and function without any hiccups for years to come.
What to Watch Out For
Although aluminium is a durable metal, it is important to be aware of factors that could affect your door’s lifespan. Aluminium is considered a “soft” metal which means that heavy weather conditions such as hail or prolonged heat exposure can weaken the metal overtime.
Hail damage is known to leave unappealing dents on aluminium garage doors that can become tiresome (and expensive) to repair.
How to Prolong the Life of Your Aluminium Garage Door
As with anything in life, regular maintenance is essential for extending the lifespan of your aluminium garage door. Here are seven steps for maintaining your aluminium garage door:
1. Regular Inspection
Frequent, visual inspections can go a long way towards getting the most out of your door. When doing a monthly inspection, look out for damage such as dents, scratches, or corrosion. You should also test how your door operates by listening for any unusual noises or resistance.
2. Cleaning
Dirt can be a silent killer for anything mechanical. Regular cleaning to remove excess dirt and grime will help you avoid unnecessary damage or repairs.
Watch out for harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammoniated cleaner. We recommend a mild detergent such as dish soap and a soft cloth or sponge that will not scratch the surface of your aluminium garage door.
3. Lubrication
Applying a high-quality silicone-based lubricant will keep your aluminium garage door functioning and your wallet happy. Any moving parts such as the hinges, rollers, and tracks will benefit from lubrication. Not only does this simple bit of maintenance reduce friction, but it also prevents premature wear.
4. Hardware Tightening
Periodically inspect any and all screws, bolts, or nuts on your garage door. Vibrations may cause them to come loose which could lead to operational and safety hazards.
5. Weatherstripping Inspection
Garage doors are more than safety and convenience! They also improve the energy efficiency of your home. Air leaks due to damaged weatherstripping can affect the temperature of your home and should be kept in good condition.
6. Safety Sensor Testing
Safety sensors are integral for preventing damage to your vehicle (or people) when it comes to aluminium garage doors. Frequently test that anything in the door’s path causes the door to reverse automatically.
7. Professional Maintenance
You don’t tell your barber how to cut your hair, you just say what you like, and they handle the rest! Qualified garage door technicians can identify potential issues and perform any repairs. Schedule regular maintenance checks with a trusted supplier such as Roos Garage Doors.
How to Fix Scratches on Your Aluminium Garage Door
You can easily remove minor scratches from your aluminium garage door yourself with this DIY method. Here is what you will need:
- WD-40 Spray (or any high-quality lubricant)
- 220-grit sandpaper
- 1500-3000 grit sandpaper
Step 1: Identify the scratched area you would like to remove.
Step 2: Clean the area with a mild detergent and soft sponge or cloth.
Step 3: Spray the scratch with WD-40 and allow the lubricant to settle.
Step 4: Gently sand the scratch with the 220-grit sandpaper using soft, circular motions.
Step 5: Switch to the 1500-3000 grit sandpaper to smooth the scratched area.
Step 6: Clean the area to remove any residue from sanding.
Typical Lifespan of Aluminium Garage Doors
With the right care and proper maintenance, your aluminium garage door can last up to 30 years. Keep in mind that factors such as weather and use frequency can drastically impact this lifespan.
Aluminium garage doors, although uncommon in South Africa, offer a fresh combination of durability, style, and low maintenance. This guide can help you prolong the life of your garage door so that you and your loved ones can enjoy the peace and safety they provide for years to come.
Investing time and a little bit of effort into looking after your aluminium garage door will not only save you money, but also enhance the overall value of your home! If you’re looking for a reputable supplier of aluminium or wooden garage doors in South Africa, Roos Garage doors is your one-stop destination for doors, motors, hardware, garage door service, and automation! You can request a free quote from our website.