Protecting Wood Garage Doors from Damage

There are several types of materials for garage doors and wood is the classic option. It is solid and beautiful. It is considered to be a luxury material. At the same time, it is prone to damage from the elements. That is why you need to know how to take proper care of it as part of garage door maintenance. Here are some important tips to help you with this.

Proper Care for Durability

The wood door has to be stained or painted in order for the material to be protected from damage. The stain or paint will work to keep moisture out of the wood. That way, the material will be safe from rotting and decay. This is extremely important since garage door panel replacement will be required in this kind of damage occurs.

Should you choose staining or painting for avoiding garage door panel repair? Either way, the protective material has to cover wood properly and to prevent moisture from penetrating inside. In general, stain will not add color to the wood and will not mask imperfections. It will just make it slightly darker. Of course, you can always opt for a stain product with dye, which will ad a new natural color to the wood.

No matter what your choice is, you have to remember that re-staining or repainting the door on a regular basis is mandatory. It should be done annually or once every two years, at least. That way, the risk of damage will be lowered to the very possible minimum and you will save on garage door repair.

Rainwater can easily enter your garage through the slots between the floor and the walls and the door. If it remains in the slots, it can easily cause damage, which may remain unnoticed. For these reasons, you will have to use weather stripping to protect these vulnerable areas. You must apply bottom seal. You have to seal the sides of the door and the top as well.

Inspect the wood for damage regularly so that you can provide repair timely.