It doesn’t take much to put a ding or scratch in a garage door. Over time, daily use and occasional mishaps are bound to leave some minor cosmetic damage. While severe dents may require professional repair, many small blemishes can often be touched up or filled in with some basic tools and supplies found around the home or garage. Let’s look at quick solutions to common minor damage types.
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Light Scratches
Feather-fine scratches on the painted surface can usually be buffed out. Use a polishing or compounding creme and gently rub it into scratches using a microfiber cloth or foam pad in circular motions. Repeated rubbing should help diminish lighter scuffs so they blend in seamlessly.
Small Surface Dents
Shallower dents sometimes pop back out on their own after a gentle push from behind. But if stubborn, filling with auto body paint or putty allows it to be blended for an invisible repair. Apply a small amount, smoothing it level with surrounding panels using a squeegee before sanding lightly once dry. Touch up with matching paint.
Deeper Crease Dents
For deeper creases that won’t push out, try using a hair dryer on low/medium heat setting to warm the area gently. Keep a good distance and be quick but thorough. The mild heat expansion may relax stiffened metal enough to allow shallow dents to slowly fade out on their own over time with minimal pressure.
Rust Spots
Prevent surface rust from spreading by sanding any rust spots smooth and applying a rust-inhibiting primer followed by matching paint. With regular upkeep, future rust damage should stay localized and easy to repair.
Loose Panels
Minor door dents are usually cosmetic, but loose panels are functional issues. If lightly detached but still on tracks, carefully retighten clip bolts or panel screws from behind to resecure panels squarely in place. For deeper issues, professional alignment may be advised instead of forcing improper fits.
Of course, severe damage like deep gashes, breaks or heavy impact areas usually warrant professional Garage Door Repair in Highland Springs for structural evaluation and repairs beyond DIY scope. But these simple techniques can smartly disguise many superficial blemishes to restore that freshly painted curb appeal without fuss or major cost. And with preventive lubrication and regular minor touch-ups, keeping damage minimal is simpler too!
Jesse Ortiz is an avid home blogger, with the goal of helping his readers find inspiration and ideas for their next project. He writes about everything from small design projects to large renovations. His goal is to help people transform their homes into something that reflects who they are.
