What Causes Rust?
Rust, also known as iron oxide, is a combination of iron, water, and oxygen. Water that combines with carbon dioxide from the air creates corrosion. The corrosion forms an acid which dissolves on the iron of your garage door and causes the water to become hydrogen and oxygen. From there, it is the dissolvement of oxygen into the iron that results in rust.
Cause and Prevention for Rust on Your Garage Door
Rust on garage doors is more common on steel and aluminum, especially when the metal is more on the thin side. So, what actually causes rust on garage doors? Here are some main causes for rust on a garage door:
Dirty Garage Door Components
Nothing good comes from dirt on your garage door or garage door parts. Having a dirty garage door can cause rust because dirt traps in oxygen and water. As we just discussed, oxygen and water are the two elements that when combined with iron creates the dreaded rust. Along with dirt trapping water and oxygen, dirt also contain other elements that can lead to rust.
Prevention:
Aim to clean your garage door 1-2 times a year, especially the garage door tracks and joints. You can also use specific a garage door wax or car wax to be an extra aid against rain and dirt. Be sure to not use abrasive cleaners, such as muriatic acid, or paste wax on your garage door. After a good cleaning, it is a good time to inspection the parts and ensure that they are properly oiled.
Snowy & Icy Weather
Snowy/icy weather causing rust comes as no surprise, since water is a key element for rust. Even though snowy weather in Texas is rare, it is still important to be aware that snow and ice can damage your garage door. In the northern states, it is quite common for salt to cause rust to form on garage doors.
Prevention: Even though there is no way to prevent rain or snow on your garage door, it is important to keep in mind that you don’t want to keep salt against your garage door for a long period of time. Also ensure that snowmelt and rainwater are directed away from your garage door and home.
A1 Affordable Garage Door Repair Services are experts in installation and garage door repairs of any kind. Give us a call today. We are ready to get your garage door back in working order. Serving Plano and surrounding areas like The Colony, Flower Mound, Frisco, Mckinney and more.
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