Steel doors are renowned for their impressive durability and enduring qualities, whether adorning residential homes or guarding commercial establishments. However, the promise of their extended service life can only be guaranteed by careful and regular maintenance. There are crucial steps you can take to protect the structural integrity and aesthetics of your steel entry, enabling it to keep its pristine condition for an extended time.
Get insights on the following tips for maintaining steel doors Toronto.
1. Lubricate All Moving Parts
To ensure the smooth operation of your steel doors, lubricate all moving parts like hinges and locks. Friction, sticking, grinding noises, or resistance when operating the door means it’s time to lubricate. This essential maintenance prevents seizing up or failure of internal components.
Wipe away any drips or overspray. This allows the hinges to glide easily and silently open and close the heavy steel door.
Lubricate all lock components following the manufacturer’s advice, usually with a dry graphite powder. Remove any existing lubricant residue before applying fresh lubricant. Insert the powder carefully into all the inner lock mechanisms through the keyhole.
Work the lock and latch several times to distribute the graphite evenly. This keeps the locking bolts and latches operating smoothly to protect against sticking or seizing up.
Promptly Touch Up Any Paint Scratches
Due to heavy use, steel entry doors often get minor scratches and paint chips that expose the bare metal underneath. Address these right away to prevent moisture seeping in and rust from taking hold. Leaving scratches unaddressed leads to peeling paint and unsightly rust spots.
Follow all label directions for proper application and drying time. With prompt attention to minor scratches, your door maintains its flawless facade.
Establish A Regular Washing Routine
While they are built to withstand exposure, steel entry doors still need regular cleaning, just like other exterior surfaces. Make washing down your doors a consistent part of your cleaning routine. Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth with mild detergent and water.
Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasive tools that could scratch or dull the door’s finish. Gently wash from top to bottom, rinse thoroughly with clean water, and pat dry any standing water on horizontal surfaces. Prompt drying helps prevent water spots.
Watch Closely for Any Rust Formation
Due to moisture exposure, steel entry doors are susceptible to rust formation over time. Therefore, inspect doors closely each season for any rust spots developing, especially along the bottom edges and around the hardware. Address any signs of rust right away before it eats through the finish and spreads underneath.
Lightly sand small rust areas to remove all corrosion flakes, then spot prime before applying touch-up paint to match the finish. For more extensive rust, entirely strip and reseal the door for a total refresh.
Consider Installing Protective Entry Mats
Installing quality entry mats inside and outside of exterior doors helps limit dirt and moisture tracked inside. Outside mats help scrape shoes clean before entering while absorbing any snowmelt or rain. Indoor rugs capture remaining debris and prevent it from soiling floors throughout the home.
Look for coarser brushed mats to scrub shoes effectively. Rubber-backed mats stay securely in position while providing cushioning underfoot. Avoid mats with a latex backing that could adhere to the flooring.
Add Overhangs and Awnings
Installing adequate overhangs above exterior doors helps protect them from rain and snow accumulation. An overhang of at least 4 to 6 feet deep prevents water from dripping directly onto doors. This allows moisture to drip free of entryways instead of saturating doors.
Porches, covered entryways, and awnings provide ideal shelter against the elements. Point gutters and downspouts away from doors as well. Northern exposures are most vulnerable to storm effects. Keeping moisture from pooling on horizontal door surfaces limits paint damage and rust risks.
Overhangs also provide shade and reduce heat gain on south and west-facing doors. Shaded entries prevent finish discoloration from constant sun exposure. Covered entryways allow doors to operate smoothly by protecting them from intense sunlight, precipitation, and other weathering.
Use Storm Doors for Added Protection
Adding full-view storm doors provides significant benefits for protecting and preserving exterior steel doors. Quality triple-track storm doors seal tightly against the existing door using weatherstripping, just like the main doors. The dual panes of glass help insulate against heat and cold transfer.
Also read: How Steel Lockers Can Enhance Your Decor While Protecting Your Valuables
