3.16.2023

6 tips to keep your storage unit doors clean, functional and secure

When people see a row of roller shutters in a building, most immediately think of "self-storage". Equipment doors are often the most prominent feature of any industrial facility. They thus contribute to the attractiveness, which is crucial for attracting new tenants; But they are also an important part of site security and the overall customer experience.

Therefore, it is important that they are well cared for. The following tips will help you keep this important component looking and working well. It also means your doors are safer and last longer.

Tip 1: Check your doors regularly

One of the simplest but crucial maintenance tasks is regular inspection of your self-storage doors. Conducting quarterly or semi-annual assessments allows you to prevent or detect problems early and minimize costly repairs. Look for discolored or aged paint, damage from acid rain, or salt corrosion. Once these problems begin, the deterioration accelerates rapidly and becomes more expensive to repair.

An easy way to test the color and shine of your doors is to wipe down an area with a damp cloth or sponge. If there is a noticeable difference in appearance, consider applying a quality polish. Remember: It's important to use a coating that adheres well to metal and will expand and contract as roller shutters flex when going up and down.

Acid rain can wreak havoc on your doorstep, even if you're not in an area with refineries, factories, or power plants. Permanently etch dark vertical stripes into the metal. This damage cannot be reversed, but can be avoided by applying a good quality clear coat. Look for one with built-in corrosion inhibitors. Ordinary paint breathes and therefore does not protect the metal from this type of damage. That's why it's important to apply a top coat even to freshly painted doors.

Acid rain on door web.jpg
Damage from acid rain

For self-storage properties near the coast, salt corrosion can be an issue, even if you're miles from the water. This causes the doors to become rough and bumpy, eventually rusting and blistering that cannot be repaired. Run your hand along the top ribs, especially on the north side doors where the salt will take the longest to dry. If you feel corrosion starting, use a good quality clear coat with salt resistant properties to prevent further damage.

Tip 2: Remove the chalk

Customers don't like doors covered in chalk because the chalk gets on their hands and clothes; Besides, it looks terrible. If your doors have these residues, you need to remove them. Fortunately, it's an easy process.

A typical 8' x 8' door can be completely derusted in less than 15 minutes. All you need is a bucket of clean water and a microfiber cloth. Dampen the cloth and wring it out, then fold it into a pad. Start at the top and clean each rib. Fold the cloth continuously to maintain a clean surface and rinse with water frequently. Most of the chalk rubs off easily.

ChalkFromDoor web.jpg
door is chalking


Tip 3: Keep them clean

Removing dirt and grime from your self storage doors will extend the life of the paint. Washing with mild soap and water is great, but rinsing off the dust from time to time also helps. Invest in microfiber cloths or soft-bristled brushes that match the pens.

Renters tend to stack boxes up to the door, so be careful not to get water inside the unit. This can happen when a beam is aimed over the door or directly at the edges. The use of high-pressure cleaners is not recommended.

If you have hard water, do not wash your doors in direct sunlight or you may get water stains. Opt for shadows instead. An inexpensive filter attached to your hose can help. These are available at RV or camping supplies stores.

Obviously interior doors cannot be hosed down as water runs under the walls. Buckets of water are also a risk as they can easily tip over. For fingerprints or smudges, use a spray cleaner and cloth. A good alternative is a quality waterless detergent and wax.

When a unit is empty, clean the door rails as dirt and cobwebs can clog the mechanisms; and doors that are difficult to open and close frustrate customers and can be dangerous. Just don't use grease or WD-40 as this will attract dirt and further clog the rollers.

Tip 4 - Adjust the door springs

A very common problem with self-storage doors is the layers sagging over time, causing dark streaks on the front of the door. This means that the spring needs to be adjusted. The markings can be cleaned with a #000 pad of synthetic steel wool, removing them without damaging the paintwork.

It is best to refer to the door manufacturer's installation instructions for specific tension adjustment procedures. Most operators choose to hire a qualified roller shutter technician for this task.

Tip 5: Remove graffiti

Graffiti must be removed as soon as possible. If spray paint has been used (eg marking) it will harden further and be more difficult to remove. Check the color fastness of your door paint and then use a mild graffiti remover. Hopefully, solving this problem quickly will prevent future incidents.

Tip 6: Avoid dangerous products

Make sure the cleaning products you use on your self storage doors are designed for this purpose. Silicone-based products like Pledge can leave a film that attracts dirt and debris, making on-road maintenance significantly more difficult. Vinegar can help prevent water stains, but it etches bare metal and can rust your knockers. TSP (Trisodium Phosphate) can clean well, but it also etches doors and causes further rust and damage.

Also, make sure any coatings or paints you use are specified for outdoor roller shutters. They must offer protection from harmful UV rays, salt corrosion, rust and other harmful elements.

The cabinet doors are a big part of the brand and appeal of your self storage, it's the way customers and visitors remember your property. If you take care of them, they'll last longer, look better, and require less maintenance in the future.

Jackie Belau is Controller at Everbrite Inc. She helps the company expand into new industries and build brand awareness. To reach them, call 916.995.6398 or email [email protected] .

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