How Bay Area Salt Air Is Secretly Damaging Your Garage Door (And What to Do About It)

If you live in the Bay Area, garage door corrosion is a common concern – but it’s also manageable. With the right material choice and maintenance, you can minimize the damage and keep your garage door looking nicer for longer.

Why Salt Air Damages Your Garage Door

Salt is a naturally corrosive substance. The amount in the atmosphere can vary significantly in the Bay Area, but much of the time, the regional salinity is exceptionally high.

Add in high humidity levels, and the conditions are perfect for corrosion, especially on metal surfaces. Springs, brackets, tracks, hinges and other hardware are all susceptible. The salt air and humidity may also affect weatherstripping and lubricants, which makes regular professional maintenance a priority.

The Difference the Right Door Makes

Some garage doors are better-suited for the Bay Area than others. Aluminum doors like Avante^® Sleek are one of the best options for coastal areas, since they’re naturally resistant to corrosion and require minimal maintenance. Steel doors are highly durable, but they require regular treatment to prevent corrosion.

Nonmetal options are generally less susceptible to humidity and corrosion. Options like vinyl and fiberglass make an excellent choice and are usually fairly cost-effective.

Your Coastal Garage Door Maintenance List

If your garage door isn’t ready for replacement, you can keep it looking good and performing well with regular maintenance. When you call a professional for a tuneup, they’ll be able to assess any salt air damage and take the appropriate steps to fix it. There are also some proactive steps you can take between services.

Wash the Door Regularly

Washing your garage door monthly will help remove any salt deposits that have formed on the surface. You don’t need to scrub the door. Just give it a good wash with a soft cloth and a noncorrosive detergent, like dish soap. Removing the salt deposits helps reduce the rate of corrosion, extending the door’s lifespan.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Between the salt and the humidity, springs, rollers and other moving parts may start corroding or become stuck. Springs may also lose tension or wear through over time. Professional maintenance typically includes lubrication of essential components with a high-quality lithium grease. A technician can also adjust spring tension or replace components when necessary.

Check Weatherstripping and Reseal Surfaces as Needed

Check the weatherstripping regularly. If it’s damaged, humid, salt-rich air will make its way into the garage, where it can corrode essential components. In the case of steel doors and others with corrosion sensitivity, regular sealant applications may also be necessary.

Partner With the Bay Area’s Garage Door Experts

If it’s time for a new garage door, choosing the right one can make all the difference. Door Pros is your local source for doors designed to resist salt air and other coastal conditions. We also offer garage door repair in Marin County and throughout the Bay Area. Contact us today to request a service or get an estimate.