The average metal building will last 50 years or more.
However, this will only happen with proper maintenance, which means that a metal garage can be a great investment for your home. Not only is it a great place to store your car or tools, but it can also provide added security and protection for your properties from the elements.
Now, like any investment, metal garage maintenance is important to extend the lifespan of your garage. You need to do a lot, from cleaning it to repainting and managing pests to ensure optimum condition.
This article will discuss tips for maintaining your metal garage, so keep reading to learn more.
Inspect and Repair Regularly
One of the most important things you should do is inspect your metal garage at least once a year.
This will allow you to catch any problems early on and prevent them from becoming bigger issues. When inspecting your garage, pay close attention, especially to the roof.
Look for any cracks, holes, and rust spots on the roof. If you notice any problems with your roof, do the repairs as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Also, look at the walls and doors to ensure they’re still in good condition and that the doors are functioning properly.
If you notice any cracks in the walls or any damage to the doors, repair them as well. You can either do this yourself or hire a professional for the best solutions.
Keep Your Metal Garage Dry at All Times
Water is one of the most destructive elements to any metal building, and your metal garage is no exception.
Even if you don’t live in a particularly rainy area, condensation can still form on the inside of your metal garage and lead to rusting and other problems. To help combat this issue, keep the inside of your metal garage as dry as possible. One way to do this is to invest in a good dehumidifier.
You can also check for any leaks or water damage now and then to mitigate the problem. If you find any, make sure you fix the problem as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the worse the damage will become.
In addition to keeping your metal garage dry, you also need to make sure it’s well-ventilated. Poor ventilation can lead to moisture buildup, leading to rusting and other problems.
To ensure your metal garage is properly ventilated, ensure there are plenty of openings for air to flow through. Alternatively, invest in a good ventilation system to help with this.
Keep Your Metal Garage Clean
One of the best ways to keep your metal garage in good shape is to clean it regularly. This will help prevent dirt and grime from building up and causing rust or other damage.
A pressure washer can be a great tool for this, but you can also use a garden hose and some elbow grease. Let the garage dry completely before you put anything back inside.
When cleaning your garage, pay special attention to the door tracks. These can easily become clogged with dirt and debris, making it difficult for the doors to open and close properly. You may need to use a brush or other tool to get all the gunk out of the tracks.
Another area that needs regular cleaning is the gutters. If your metal garage has gutters, be sure to clean them out at least once a year to prevent leaves and other debris from causing clogs. This can lead to water damage in your garage.
Finally, you should also sweep the floor of your garage regularly. This will help keep it free of dirt, dust, and other debris that can cause problems.
Manage Pests
Pests can cause all sorts of problems in your metal garage. They can build nests that block gutters and downspouts, causing water damage. They can also chew through wires and insulation, creating fire hazards and spreading disease to you and your family.
The best way to prevent pests from taking over your garage is to keep it clean and clutter-free. Be sure to sweep and mop the floors regularly and declutter as much as possible. This will make it harder for pests to find places to hide.
Additionally, seal up any cracks or holes in your garage to prevent pests from getting inside in the first place. You can use caulk or expanding foam to seal up cracks and holes.
Touch Up On Paint
If you notice any bare metal spots or chipped paint, it’s time to touch up on your paint job. This will help protect your garage from rust and other damage.
You can buy special garage paint and solutions for the interior at most hardware stores. Make sure to follow the instructions on the can for the best results.
Moreover, don’t forget to also repaint your garage door every few years to maintain its appearance. Painting your garage door is a simple process, but it’s important to do it right in order to get the best results.
To start, you should clean the door with soap and water. Remove any dirt, dust, or debris that could prevent the paint from adhering properly. Once the door is clean, you should apply a primer to help the paint adhere better and provide a nice, even finish.
After the primer has dried, you can start painting your door. Use long, even strokes, and work in small sections. Once you’ve finished painting, let the door dry for at least 24 hours before using it.
Replace Rusted Fasteners
If you notice any rust on the screws or bolts that hold your garage together, it’s important to replace them as soon as possible. Rust can cause the fasteners to break, which can lead to serious damage.
You can buy replacement fasteners at most hardware stores but ensure you get the right size and type for your garage door. Replacement is an easy task you can do but you can always call a professional if you’re not up for it.
Keep Your Garage Clear of Trees and Vegetation Debris
Trees and vegetation can cause all sorts of problems for your garage. They can drop leaves and branches that clog gutters and downspouts, causing water damage. They can also scratch or dent your garage.
To prevent these problems, you should keep trees and vegetation trimmed away from your garage. Be sure to trim back any branches that hang over the roof or sides of the garage.
Moreover, remove any leaves, twigs, and other debris that could clog gutters and downspouts. Also, rake up any leaves or other debris that falls on the ground near your garage.
Always Inspect Your Metal Garage After a Storm
No matter how well-constructed your metal garage is, it’s always a good idea to inspect it after a severe storm. Look for any dents, scratches, or other damage that may have occurred. If you see any damage, make sure to repair it as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration.
It’s also a good idea to check the roof of your metal garage after a storm. Look for any missing or damaged shingles, and repair or replace them as soon as possible.
If you have a lot of debris on your roof, you may want to hire a professional to clean it off for you.
If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, it’s also important to shovel any snow off of your roof to prevent it from collapsing. It’s also a good idea to check for any signs of snow damage. Look for cracks or other damage in the walls or roof, and make sure to repair them as soon as possible.
Be Proactive About Your Metal Garage Care
The best way to keep your metal garage in good shape is to be proactive about maintenance. By taking care of small problems as they arise, you can prevent them from becoming big problems down the road.
Be sure to check your garage for any signs of wear and tear, and address any issues promptly. With a little bit of care and attention, you can keep your metal garage looking new for years to come.
Metal Garage Maintenance: The Quintessential Guide
By following these simple tips, you can keep your metal garage in good shape and extend its lifespan. Check for any signs of wear and tear regularly, and address any issues promptly.
With a little bit of care and attention, you can keep your metal garage looking great for years to come. That said, check out our blog for more awesome and helpful tips.
