Huntington Beach, CA, often referred to as “Surf City,” is renowned for its attractive beaches, climate, and coastal lifestyle. However, property owners in this beautiful locale face unique challenges when it comes to their garage doors due to the proximity to the ocean.
The salty air from the beach can accelerate corrosion on garage doors, springs, opener components, and metal fixtures, while the constant exposure to sea breeze and humidity can lead to rust and deterioration of the door panels and the equipment. These conditions make regular maintenance and timely repairs essential for preserving the functionality and aesthetics of garage doors in Huntington Beach.
So, in addition to common garage door issues, here are the problems that as a Huntington Beach resident, you’re most likely to experience.
1. Corrosion and Rust
The salty air from the ocean accelerates the corrosion process, causing garage door springs, tracks, hinges, and other metal components to rust. This can weaken the structural integrity of the garage door and lead to more frequent repairs.
2. Paint Problems
The constant exposure to salty air and high humidity can cause the paint on garage doors to peel and flake. This happens when the salt and humidity penetrate the paint layer, causing it to lose adhesion, and the paint to bubble and blister. Once the paint starts to fall apart, the exposed surface becomes more susceptible to corrosion.
3. Weather Stripping Deterioration
The weather stripping around the garage door, which helps seal out moisture and air, can deteriorate more quickly due to constant exposure to the salty, humid air. This can lead to salty air penetrating the garage structure more easily, potentially affecting the garage door hardware and making it harder to regulate the temperature inside.
4. Malfunctioning Garage Door Opener & Electrical Problems
Garage door opener components such as wiring, connections, circuits, sensors, and other electronic mechanisms can be affected by the salty and humid environment, leading to malfunctions or failures. This can result in the door not opening or closing properly, intermittent functionality, and short circuits.
5. Noisy Operation
Exposure to salt and humidity can cause parts to corrode or wear out more quickly, leading to increased noise and vibration during the operation of the garage door. This can be both a nuisance and a sign of underlying issues that need to be addressed. For example, salt and humidity can penetrate garage door bearings, increasing friction and wear.
6. Warping and Swelling of Door Sections
Humidity and frequent exposure to moisture can cause wooden garage doors to warp and swell. This can lead to misalignment problems, binding, sticking, and difficulty in opening and closing, as well as gaps that allow drafts and pests into the garage.
Avoiding Common Problems in the Coastal Area of Huntington Beach
Follow these prevention and maintenance tips to keep your garage door in good working order:
Regular Cleaning
Clean your garage doors once a week to remove salt deposits and other contaminants. Use a mild detergent and water to wash your garage door, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
Paint Maintenance
Before painting, apply a primer and use a sealant to protect the paint layer. This extra barrier helps against moisture and salt penetration. Promptly remove any peeling paint and use touch-up paint for repairs.
Use Protective Coatings
Apply a clear protective coating to your garage door to prevent chalking, improve durability, and better resist environmental factors and salty air from the beach.
Regular Maintenance
Lubricate the moving parts of your garage door every six months to ensure smooth operation. Inspect both the door and frame to ensure they are properly aligned and sealed. Adjust the garage door as needed to close any gaps that may develop over time, preventing drafts and salty air from entering the garage and damaging the door’s components.
Timely Repairs
Address repairs promptly. Replace worn or rusted parts to prevent sudden breakdowns and ensure the safe operation of your garage door.
Install a Garage Door Made from Resistant Materials
Garage doors made from wood, aluminum, and powder-coated steel are known for their resilience against salty air, corrosion, and various weather conditions. Wood offers a classic aesthetic and can be treated to withstand moisture and decay. Aluminum’s durability makes it ideal for coastal areas prone to corrosion. Powder-coated steel provides robust protection against rust and enhances durability against the elements.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix Garage Doors in Huntington Beach, CA?
The average cost of a garage door repair in Huntington Beach is $500. Costs vary depending on project specifications, labor intensity, and required parts. For instance, a basic annual maintenance service from a licensed door contractor averages around $150.
Champion Garage Door Repair is a certified company with over a decade of experience serving Huntington Beach residents. We specialize in repairing, maintaining, and installing garage doors, addressing common issues in the coastal area.
