If you live in a place where salt air is thick and the wind stays moving, your front door is a shield. These entries take a lot of heat from the sun and pressure from heavy rain. You need to know how to clean and maintain impact doors to ensure they last. You cannot treat these as cheap doors from a local hardware store. They have specialized seals and thick glass that require a gentle touch.
To do it right, you first need to rinse the salt away. Then you should wipe the glass carefully and grease the locks to prevent rust. It also helps to clear dirt from the threshold. Finally, always check the weatherstripping for any cracks or leaks.
Steps to Maintain Your Impact Doors
Keeping your doors in good shape is a simple chore for the weekend. It is much better than paying for a whole new door because the lock rusted shut or the frame got pitted. Here are the steps for each impact door maintenance and cleaning:
1. Give it a Fresh Water Bath
Before you ever grab a sponge, you need to use your garden hose. Salt spray and dust sit on the surface like tiny rocks. If you rub them, they will scratch your finish.
- Spray the whole door from top to bottom.
- Do not use a high-pressure power washer. It can rip the seals right out of the frame.
2. Use the Right Soap Mix
Harsh chemicals are the worst thing for impact glass coatings. You want to stay away from anything that smells like a science lab.
- Mix a few drops of baby shampoo or mild dish soap in a bucket of warm water.
- Do not use ammonia or glass cleaners that claim to have extra scrubbing power.
3. Focus on the Glass
Impact glass is very thick and strong. However, it can still show ugly streaks or get cloudy if you use the wrong tools.
- Use a clean microfiber cloth or a soft squeegee.
- Wipe in one direction. This keeps streaks from forming right in the middle of your view.
4. Scrub the Frame Thoroughly
The frame supports the door’s weight. If salt builds up on the aluminum, the metal will eventually develop little holes in it.
- Wipe down the inside and outside of the door frame.
- Pay close attention to the corners. This is where salt and dirt like to hide and cause trouble.
5. Clear the Bottom Threshold
The track at the bottom of the door is like a magnet for sand. If the door is dirty, it will not close or seal properly.
- Sweep or vacuum out any rocks and dirt twice a month.
- Wipe it down with a damp cloth so the door bottom sits perfectly flat.
6. Oil the Hinges and Locks
The humidity in Florida is a nightmare for metal. If your door squeaks or the key feels stuck, you have a problem.
- Apply a silicone-based spray to all the moving metal parts.
- Do not use WD-40 or heavy grease. Those products trap sand and become a sticky mess that damages the hardware.
7. Inspect the Weatherstripping
That rubbery seal around the edge of the door is what keeps water out of your house. If it is cracked, your impact door is just a regular door.
- Run your finger along the seal. Look for any brittle or missing chunks.
- Replace any damaged strips right away. This keeps your AC from leaking out of the house.
8. Tighten the Hardware
Impact doors are much heavier than standard doors. The screws can loosen over time from repeated opening and closing.
- Check the screws on the handle and the hinges.
- Use a manual screwdriver to tighten them. Do not use a power drill because it might strip the heads.
Conclusion
Knowing how to clean and maintain impact doors is the only way to make sure your family stays safe. These doors are a big investment for your security. First, remember to rinse the salt after every big storm. You also need to wipe the glass and grease the locks at least once a season. Don’t forget to clear the threshold and check the weathers tripping regularly.
If the door feels too heavy to move or the glass looks hazy, it might be time for a professional to take a look. We at SafeGuard Impact ensure every entrance we install is built to withstand heavy loads. Whether you need a impact door installation or replacement, we can handle it.
FAQs
How do you clean impact doors?
The best way is to rinse them with water first. Then use a soft cloth and mild soap. Never use a razor blade to remove stickers or paint from the glass.
What is the best method of cleaning windows and doors?
Experts suggest cleaning on a cloudy day. The direct sun makes the soapy water dry too fast. That is the main reason people get white water spots on their glass.
How to clean outdoor windows and doors properly?
Start with the frames, then clean the glass. This way, you are not splashing dirty water onto a clean pane of glass while you are scrubbing the metal parts.
