Top 4 Care & Maintenance Tips for Steel Entry Doors
The front door is the first thing that draws the viewer’s attention from the curb, so it only makes sense to keep it looking as pristine as possible. If your home has steel entry doors, keeping it clean has never been easier. In this blog, the door installation experts at ARCH Exteriors, share our top 4 care and maintenance tips for steel entry doors.
4 Care & Maintenance Tips For Steel Entry Doors
1. All You Need Are Soap and Water
Steel doors generally do not require special cleaning products. In fact, all you need to clean your steel entry door is water and diluted dish soap. A soft brush with a telescoping handle will let you reach all the way to the top of the door, then use a garden hose to rinse it clean. You can use any type of dish soap to clean your front door; we recommend using plant-friendly products if the runoff will reach plants in your yard. In addition to being easy to clean, steel entry doors are also energy efficient, helping to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs.
2. Avoid Using Pressure Washers
Pressure washers are great for cleaning the driveway and other outdoor surfaces, but as your entry door and siding contractor, we strongly recommend against using them on your steel door, even at their lowest settings. Most steel doors have nonporous surfaces, which means if you must remove stubborn stains on your steel door, all you need is a 1:1 water and white vinegar solution. Dip a clean cloth into the solution, dab it on the stain, leave it for a few minutes, then scrub with a sponge or soft cloth. In addition to their durability, steel doors offer enhanced security, providing a strong barrier against potential break-ins.
3. Watch Out for Chipping, Flaking, or Blistering
Steel entry doors have many benefits including Factory-applied coatings that protect steel doors against corrosion. Certain conditions may cause damage to this protective layer: impact from windborne debris may cause dings or chips, or excessive heat may cause cracks or blisters. When cleaning your entry door, take care not to force moisture into gaps or cracks to prevent further damage. Call your door contractor for repairs if you find them on your door. Maintaining the appearance of your steel entry door not only ensures its longevity but also enhances your home’s curb appeal.
4. Replace the Weatherstripping on Your Exterior Door
Weatherstripping seals the gap between the frame and exterior door sash and helps prevent air leaks. When cleaning your steel entry door, make it a point to inspect the weatherstripping, and look for cracks or missing sections. Replacement kits can be purchased from most hardware stores, or you can hire an entry door contractor and have it replaced for you.
Maryland’s Premier Door Installation Team
ARCH Exteriors, LLC is your leading provider of roof repair and door installation services. Give us a call at (877) 214-2831 or fill out our contact us form to schedule an appointment.