How to Clean a Metal Door
Doors become dirty from exposure to outdoor weather conditions, dirty hands or accidental spills. Dirty metal doors can make a house look shabby and worn down. Cleaning metal doors is a fast way to brighten up the exterior of a house.
It is necessary to use the right products in order to avoid scratching and damaging the surface. Using abrasive products can remove the protective finish and allow the metal to rust.
Things You Will Need
- Mild dishwashing soap
- Water
- Spray bottle
- tri sodium phosphate (TSP)
- Large rag or newspaper
- Rag or sponge
Tip
Apply a coat of car wax to keep dirt from sticking in the future. Wear safety glasses and rubber gloves when working with cleaning products. Test a hidden area of the painted metal door for colorfastness before applying the cleaning solution.
Warning
Do not use steel wool, scouring powders, sandpaper or wire brushes to clean metal doors. You will scratch the finish.
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Mix 1 tsp. of mild dish washing soap into 2 cups of warm water and pour into a spray bottle. If you have tougher stains, use tri sodium phosphate. TSP, available at paint stores, is an all-purpose cleaner that does not harm most surfaces.
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Place an old towel, large rag or layer of newspaper at the bottom of the door to catch drips from the cleaning solution.
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Spray the surface of the metal door with the soapy mixture or TSP. Begin at the top of the door and allow the spray to run down the door. Spray the entire door thoroughly.
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Wipe the door with a rag or sponge to remove grease, dirt and grime. Repeat on areas that have tough stains.
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Rinse the metal door with plain water and dry thoroughly with a soft rag.
The Drip Cap
- Doors become dirty from exposure to outdoor weather conditions, dirty hands or accidental spills.
- Using abrasive products can remove the protective finish and allow the metal to rust.
- Place an old towel, large rag or layer of newspaper at the bottom of the door to catch drips from the cleaning solution.
- Spray the entire door thoroughly.
References
- "Grandpa's 5001 Handyman Secrets;" Dr. Myles H. Bader; 2006
Writer Bio
Sal Marco began writing professionally in 2009. He has written many online home improvement articles based on his more than 20 years of experience in the home improvement and building industries. He has worked as both part of a team and as a site supervisor. Marco has a Bachelor of Science in management science from Kean University.
Photo Credits
- red garage door image by green308 from Fotolia.com
- red garage door image by green308 from Fotolia.com
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