How To Maintain And Extend The Lifespan Of Your Metal Garage

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A metal car garage is a reliable shelter – always there to secure your cars, tools, and hobbies from rain, snow, and harsh UV rays. Metal structures have earned their place as a popular choice in homes, farms, and even the business sector because of their durability, cost-effectiveness, and low-maintenance nature. They can last for 50 years or more. So, you bought metal garages for sale, but to make it last long? The secret lies in the proper upkeep of steel garages and preventing wear and tear before it turns into a costly repair.

Here, we will discuss some practical and actionable tips that will help you maintain and extend the lifespan of steel buildings, keep them standing strong, and look great.

Regular Cleaning Is The First Line Of Defense

Why Clean? The Importance Of Regular Cleaning

Your garage can accumulate dirt, debris, and grime over its surface and within the ridges of the metal panels. If left unchecked, they may trap moisture, which can lead to rust or corrosion in metal garage buildings. Further, seasonal changes heighten the risk.

For example, in winter, road salt and anti-icing chemicals can get tracked into the garage, which will speed up the rusting, while in spring, pollen & organic debris, like branches, twigs, dead leaves, etc., can cling to the surface, which will absorb moisture, rot, and create rust.

How To Clean? A Simple Yet Effective Process

The best part of cleaning steel garage buildings is that you don’t need any fancy tools or equipment. That’s because structural steel is a dense, non-porous, and inorganic material, which doesn’t absorb moisture or let mold spores sink deep into panels, legs, or frames.

Materials that you will need to clean a steel home garage are – a regular garden hose, warm water, mild detergent, and a soft brush or a sponge. Then, you can follow the following steps for cleaning:

Rinse with the water with the help of a garden hose with a nozzle.
Apply soapy water and use a soft bristle brush or sponge to clean.
Remove any stain or bird dropping gently with the scrub. (avoid excessive force during cleaning)
Next, rinse thoroughly and remove any soap residue or film from forming.
Allow the structure to air dry before stuffing back the items.

Tip: Pay attention to the roof, as it is the part that bears direct climatic impact.

When To Clean? Seasonal Clearing Schedule

You can aim to clean a steel parking garage at least twice a year – ideally in spring and in fall. This will help to tackle seasonal changes and prepare the structure for upcoming summers and winters, respectively.

Tip: Avoid using harsh chemicals for cleaning as they can remove the protective coating from metal or fade away the paint.

Preventing Rust And Corrosion In Steel Garages

Identify Rust – Rusting often starts from a small part of the metal and then becomes significant if left without care. Certain parts, such as seams, edges, and bases, are more prone to rusting. These are the places where moisture can collect with time.

Some visual cues of rust are discoloration, bubbling paint, and visible rust spots.

Address Rust – It is important to address rusting promptly before it becomes a bigger deal. But how to remove rust from metal surfaces?

For minor rust damage: You can use a wire brush or sandpaper to gently remove the rust, then apply a rust-inhibiting primer and touch it up with paint.
For major rust damage: It is best to consult with a professional for deep corrosion or structural weakness since they can assess the issue and recommend repair.

Prevent Rust – It is best to avoid rust instead of addressing it. So, here is how you can stay ahead:

Inspection of the structure after storms, hail, or severe weather when it is likely to get damaged.
Apply a protective sealant or coating as a barrier against moisture to extend the lifespan of the garage.
Ensure the interior is dry and well-ventilated to avoid moisture, humidity, and molding. You can invest in a dehumidifier if needed.

It is crucial to deal with the rust spots as they are easy to fix and cost less than any widespread damage.

Maintaining The Structural Integrity Of Metal Garages

Inspection Fasteners – With time, bolts, screws, and other fasteners can get loose due to regular use or external forces like wind. Thus, a routine check is important to ensure all fasteners are tight and secure.

Also, keep a check on garage door tracks, as any misalignment can hinder smooth operation or even compromise safety.

Repairing Seals – Sealant acts as a barrier against water leaks and drafts. A damaged seal will leak in moisture, which can cause rust or structural damage over time. Regularly inspect for cracks, tears, and gaps, especially around doors & windows. Be sure to replace any compromised sealants to maintain garage insulation and prevent water leaks.

Tip: Some common sealants for metal garages are butyl, silicone, and polyurethane.

Foundation Checks – A strong foundation is critical to the health of a steel building. You must inspect for any cracks (especially around edges), settling, etc., which can lead toan uneven surface or structural failure. A poorly laid base or misaligned structure can affect the stability of doors and steel frames.

Lubricate Doors And Moving Parts – Lubrication ensures all parts are working smoothly and reduces friction around tracks, hinges, and rollers. But, avoid over-lubricating as it can attract dust and debris that can clog the surface. You can opt for a silicone-based lubricant for metal doors.

Keep Metal Garage Pest-Free – Metal parking garages are less prone to pests, but they are not 100% immune to them. To avoid unwanted visitors, you can seal gaps, holes, and another small openings through where rodents or insects can enter. If you are using metal structures for farm storage, be sure to seal the lids of food containers to avoid attracting animals.

Roof And Gutter Upkeep – The roof and gutter carry water away from the building towards a collection area. Hence, it is crucial to remove leaves, debris, and snow to prevent clogs. Check for dents, leaks, and gaps between metal panels to ensure the roof is intact.

Protecting Metal Parking Garage From Extreme Weather

Weatherproofing – Trim any hanging branches over the roof that can break off during a storm, causing dents or puncturing the metal roof. Ensure proper drainage around the garage and avoid water pooling, as it can attract insects and lead to moisture.

Removing Snow – It is important to remove snow and ice from the metal roofing as they add weight, which can strain the structure. You can use a snow rake to gently remove the snow without climbing on it.

Tip: Avoid using sharp tools like metal shovels that can scratch the surface or damage the paint.

Sun Protection – Prolonged exposure to the sun can fade paint. It not only impacts the aesthetics but also exposes the metal to potential rust. You can apply a UV-resistant coating over the roof, which acts as a barrier shielding paint from harmful rays. You can add tall trees around the steel parking garage for shade.

As A Result,

You will benefit from the regular scheduling of inspections and checks for metal garage buildings. Maintaining your garage and vehicle will help prolong its lifespan and keep it in good shape. This will be an added bonus when you put your property up for sale.

Note that maintaining a metal parking garage doesn’t have to be complicated. Just follow the above simple steps and ensure you address minor problems promptly before they turn into giant problems. This way, you will be able to keep the garage for a long time without spending too much time, energy, and money.