Garage doors face relentless exposure to summer’s harsh elements, leading to fading, cracking, and structural wear. The intense sun, high temperatures, and humidity can degrade materials, reducing both curb appeal and functionality.
This guide covers the causes of summer-related garage door damage and offers effective repair strategies to maintain your door’s durability and appearance.
What Causes Garage Door Panels to Fade and Crack in Summer?
Understanding the root causes helps in preventing and addressing damage effectively.
- Sunlight and UV Radiation
- Fading: UV rays break down pigments in paint, causing colors to dull.
- Material Breakdown: Prolonged exposure weakens wood, metal, and vinyl, making them brittle.
- Heat Expansion and Contraction
- Metal Doors: Expand in heat, leading to warping or misalignment.
- Wood Doors: Dry out and shrink, creating cracks.
- Vinyl Doors: Can warp or become discolored under extreme heat.
- Humidity and Moisture Exposure
- Rust Formation: Steel doors in humid climates corrode faster.
- Wood Rot: Moisture seeps into untreated wood, causing decay.
- Paint Peeling: Humidity causes paint to bubble and flake off.
- Lack of Maintenance
- Infrequent cleaning accelerates dirt buildup, trapping moisture.
- Neglected lubrication increases friction, stressing panels.
Effective Repair Solutions for Summer Damage
- Restoring Faded Garage Doors
Option 1: Repainting
- Steps:
- Clean with a degreaser and mild detergent.
- Sand lightly to remove old, flaking paint.
- Apply a primer for better adhesion.
- Use UV-resistant exterior paint for longevity.
Option 2: Vinyl Wraps or Refinishing Kits
- Ideal for severely faded doors that need a fresh look without full replacement.
- Fixing Cracks and Splits
For Wooden Doors:
- Fill cracks with exterior-grade wood filler.
- Sand smooth and repaint with weatherproof sealant.
For Steel Doors:
- Remove rust with a wire brush.
- Apply rust converter before repainting.
- Use automotive-grade filler for deep cracks.
For Fiberglass/Vinyl Doors:
- Use a plastic welding kit for minor cracks.
- Replace panels if damage is extensive.
- Replacing Severely Damaged Panels
- Partial Replacement: Swap out only the warped or cracked sections.
- Full Door Replacement: Consider if multiple panels are damaged or the door is old.
Pro Tip: Match the new panels’ material and style to maintain uniformity.
- Applying Protective Coatings
- Clear UV Sealant: Guards against sun damage.
- Wax or Polish: Adds a protective layer to metal doors.
- Waterproof Sealant: Prevents moisture absorption in wood.
- Insulating the Door
- Benefits:
- Reduces heat transfer, minimizing expansion/contraction.
- Improves energy efficiency.
- Options:
- Foam board insulation (for metal doors).
- Reflective insulation (for extreme heat climates).
Preventive Measures to Avoid Summer Damage
- Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
- Wash the door every 2-3 months with a gentle cleaner.
- Check for early signs of rust, peeling, or cracks.
- Lubricate Moving Parts
- Lubricate rollers, hinges, and tracks with silicone-based spray.
- Prevents stiffness that strains panels.
- Install Protective Accessories
- Garage Door Awning: Shields from direct sunlight.
- Weather Stripping: Seals gaps to keep moisture out.
- Schedule Professional Inspections
- A technician can detect hidden issues like bent tracks, loose hardware, or motor strain.
Final Thoughts
Summer weather can be tough on garage doors, but proactive care and timely repairs can prevent long-term damage. Whether repainting, sealing cracks, or upgrading insulation, these steps will help preserve your door’s function and appearance.
When dealing with complicated garage door problems, it’s best to rely on a certified technician to guarantee safe and high-quality results.
Looking for professional help?
Reach out to us now for dependable garage door maintenance and repair services!