Guide · Updated
Looking after a garage door near the coast
Salt air is hard on garage doors in Maroubra, Malabar, Coogee and Bondi. Simple maintenance steps that make your door and motor last longer.
Living near the beach has plenty going for it, but salt air is tough on anything made of steel. Garage doors in Maroubra, South Maroubra, Malabar, Little Bay, Coogee, Clovelly, Bronte and Bondi wear out faster than the same doors a few kilometres inland.
Where salt does the damage
Springs, cables, the bottom rail of roller doors and the hinges and rollers on sectional doors take the most punishment. Rust adds friction, which makes the motor work harder, and weakens springs and cables until they fail.
Rinse the door
Every month or two, hose down the outside of the door with fresh water and wipe it with a soft cloth and mild detergent. This removes salt before it starts to corrode the finish. Check the door manufacturer's care guide for your finish.
Keep the tracks clean
Wipe sand and grit out of the tracks and guides. On roller doors, don't grease the guides, as grease holds sand. Use a garage door lubricant on hinges, rollers and bearings only.
Watch the bottom of the door
The bottom rail and seal sit in water runoff and collect salt. Replace a worn seal to keep water and leaves out, and catch rust on the rail early.
Book a yearly service
A technician can check spring tension and cable condition, which you shouldn't adjust yourself, and spot rust before it becomes a breakdown. For homes close to the water we suggest a service every 9–12 months.
Toro Garage Doors is based in Matraville, close to the coast between Maroubra and La Perouse. Call (02) 9072 1395 to book a service.