One of the best things about upgrading your home with GarageSkins is how little maintenance the system requires. With real wood veneers and weather-resistant finishes, GarageSkins panels are built to look great season after season with minimal effort. That said, a few simple habits can help ensure your garage door continues to be one of the best-looking features on your home’s exterior.
Here are our top maintenance tips to keep your GarageSkins panels looking fresh and performing at their best for years.
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1. Clean Periodically
Like all garage door panels, your GarageSkins panels are exposed to the elements year-round, which means dust, pollen, and debris can build up over time. That can make them look dull and distort the color. Fortunately, keeping them clean is easy:
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Mix a solution of warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap; in many cases, water alone will be sufficient.
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Use a soft microfiber cloth or non-abrasive sponge to gently wipe the dust from each panel.
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Avoid abrasive pads or harsh cleaners that could damage the wood veneer or finish.
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Rinse with clean water and let air dry or wipe with a soft towel.
Cleaning your panels every few months, or more often in dusty or coastal environments, will help maintain their rich color and crisp appearance.
2. Inspect After Major Weather Events
While GarageSkins are engineered for durability, it’s always smart to check them after heavy storms, wind, or extreme temperatures.
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Check for any signs of damage, moisture intrusion, or movement.
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Make sure the panels remain flush against the garage door and that magnetic connections are intact.
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If necessary, gently wipe away any debris like leaves or grit with a soft cloth to prevent surface scratching.
If a panel becomes loose or damaged, it’s easy to reposition it. Depending on the damage, you may be able to purchase a replacement group of panels. Each system we make is made from larger pieces of veneer to keep color batches and wood grains consistent so we cannot replace just one panel, but we may be able to replace only a portion of the entire system.
3. Avoid Pressure Washing or Harsh Chemical Cleaners
While it might be tempting to blast away any grime with a pressure washer, resist the urge. High-pressure streams can damage the wood surface and finish. Stick to gentle hand cleaning and avoid bleach, solvents, ammonia-based formulas, or any strong cleaners that could strip the finish or dry out the wood.
4. Store Spare Panels Properly
If you purchase extra panels or rotate styles, store unused panels flat in a dry, shaded area. We recommend that you keep the original shipping box in storage in case you ever need to store your panels. Do not place heavy items on top of the set or store them in damp basements or sheds. Proper storage helps prevent warping and ensures panels are ready whenever you want to swap styles.
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5. Periodically Check the Magnetic Bond
GarageSkins panels rely on powerful magnets to stay securely in place. Over time, dirt or residue can reduce magnetic performance. If you notice any unusual signs that the magnets are not adhering well, you may need to:
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Wipe down the back of the panels and the garage door surface.
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Ensure both surfaces are clean and dry before reapplying.
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If a panel ever feels loose, remove and reattach it to ensure optimal contact.
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A Fresh Look with Little Effort
Unlike traditional wood garage doors, which require sanding, staining, and sealing, maintaining your GarageSkins System is a breeze. Most homeowners find that with just a few minutes of occasional care, their GarageSkins panels continue to look beautiful year after year.
When you purchase a GarageSkins system, you’ve invested in a product designed to elevate your home’s curb appeal; don’t let it go dull. With these simple maintenance steps, you’ll keep your GarageSkins panels in peak condition, impressing neighbors, guests, and future homebuyers.
Need help or have questions about panel care? Contact GarageSkins for additional support and care tips or to reorder a new set of panels. Your garage should look as good tomorrow as it does today. With GarageSkins, it will.
