Preventing Rust on Jacksonville Garage Doors Near the Coast
Jacksonville is known for its beautiful coastline, but the same salt air that makes the beach so nice is a constant threat to your garage door. In neighborhoods near the water, salt spray settles on metal parts and starts eating away at the finish. If you don't take the right steps, you might see orange streaks and bubbling paint much sooner than you’d like
Door Master Clinic helps local homeowners protect their property from the harsh Florida elements. We know exactly what it takes to keep a garage door looking sharp and working smoothly in our salty environment.
Effective Ways to Stop Salt Air Damage
You don't have to just sit back and watch your door rust. Here are the most effective ways to shield your garage from the coast.
- Regular Fresh Water Rinses The simplest way to fight rust is to keep the salt from sitting on the door. Every time you wash your car or water your lawn, take a minute to spray down your garage door with a garden hose. This rinses away the salt crystals before they can dig into the metal. Avoid using high-pressure washers, as they can sometimes force water into the insulation.
- Apply a Protective Wax Layer Just like your car, your garage door benefits from a coat of wax. After cleaning the door, applying a high-quality car wax creates a clear barrier that salt and moisture can’t get through. This is a great habit to get into twice a year to keep the finish bright.
- Use Silicone-Based Lubricants Standard grease can trap salt and sand, turning it into a gritty paste that wears down your rollers and tracks. Door Master Clinic recommends using a silicone spray on all moving parts. It creates a slippery coating that repels water and prevents salt from sticking to the metal.
- Seal the Bottom and Sides Rust often starts at the bottom where water and salt sit in puddles. Make sure your bottom rubber seal is thick and makes a tight fit with the floor. This keeps the salty air from blowing into the garage and rusting the inside tracks and hardware.
Why Jacksonville Families Call Door Master Clinic
Our team has years of experience dealing with the unique weather in Duval County. we provide the parts and the care that coastal homes need to stay in top shape.
- Coastal Hardware Kits: We can swap out standard steel rollers and hinges for stainless steel or nylon parts that won't rust.
- Professional Cleaning: We offer deep-cleaning services to remove built-up grime and salt from hard-to-reach areas.
- Corrosion Inspections: We look for the early signs of rust that many homeowners miss, saving you from expensive repairs later.
Does salt air affect the inside of my garage door too?
Yes. Salt air can easily blow through small gaps or stay on your car after you pull in. It is common to see rust on the tracks and springs inside the garage. Door Master Clinic can help you seal those gaps to keep the salty air out.
What should I do if I already see small rust spots?
Small spots can often be sanded down, primed with a rust-inhibitor, and painted over. However, if the rust has gone all the way through the metal, the panel is no longer safe and should be replaced.
How often should I lubricate my garage door near the coast?
n Jacksonville, we suggest lubricating the moving parts every three to four months. The salt air and high humidity can dry out lubricants much faster than they would inland.
Are some colors better for coastal homes?
Light colors like white or sand show salt buildup less than dark colors. They also stay cooler in the sun, which helps the paint last longer without cracking or peeling.
Can Door Master Clinic install rust-proof doors?
We offer several options like vinyl and fiberglass that are completely rust-proof. These are excellent choices for homes right on the water where metal doors struggle to survive.
Keep Your Garage Door Rust-Free with Door Master Clinic
Don't let the Atlantic air ruin your home’s curb appeal. A little bit of care goes a long way in Jacksonville, and our team is here to make it easy. Whether you need a quick tune-up or want to talk about rust-proof door options, we have the local knowledge to help.
