Cleaning the garage
Cleaning your garage: Tips for proper cleaning
We put a lot of thought and planning into a new garage: We consider what would be the right size, investigate the perfect location, and pick out matching components as practical enhancements, such as the right garage door, a wicket door, windows, or an alarm system. Once we’ve got our new home for vehicles, garden tools and all the rest, however, we tend to turn our attentions to other matters – and forget that the garage does need regular care. In fact, it’s a key requirement in order to be able to preserve the garage for long-term use, and optimally protect the vehicles, equipment and all the other items we keep in it. So cleaning is essential. The blog post below sets out the key jobs involved and points to consider.
1.) Tidy up
Before you start cleaning the garage, you should first make an inventory check. Because over the course of the year a lot of stuff can accumulate in it which is simply put away and often forgotten. Whether it's empty bottles and cans that should have been thrown out long ago, sports equipment that also ought to be cleaned, or car accessories in desperate need of tidying. Systematically check every nook and cranny, and examine everything you find. Tidy up and clear out anything that is broken or no longer needed. In doing so, you will not only create space, but also be able to check the building fabric in detail. It is not uncommon for mould, rot or decayed flooring to be concealed beneath a pile of stored items.
2.) Care for the garage door, and any other doors and windows
Next turn your attention to your garage’s fixtures and fittings, including its door, and any other doors and windows, cleaning them all thoroughly. This is especially important with regard to the garage door: Clean it every four months or so to eliminate stubborn soiling. First remove coarse dirt with a hand brush. Then wipe the surface with a soft cloth or sponge and cold water. Always take care when doing this, so as not to scratch the door. You can also use warm water and household detergent to remove particularly stubborn stains. Check all the door's components at the same time: Are all the opening and closing mechanisms working properly? Are the window panes intact? And does the door run smoothly, without squeaking? Also inspect suspect rust spots, cracks, or areas where paint is chipped off. While minor scratches can be sanded off and quickly repaired with new paint, you should consult a professional contractor to deal with more serious defects. Important note: After cleaning door or window hinges in your garage, you must oil or grease them thoroughly so as to maintain their effectiveness.
3.) Deep cleaning
Next you can start the actual garage cleaning. It is best to start with the walls. In most cases, you don't have to clean them specially, just remove any cobwebs or leaves stuck on them. A broom and a vacuum cleaner are the right tools for the job. The next step is to clean the garage floor. A sweep with a broom is usually sufficient for this too. Take special care to remove leaves and litter, because leaves, soil and dirt are the best breeding ground for mould. If your garage is particularly dirty, a larger broom with a longer and coarser brush will help. Used in combination with water, it will also remove any residual road salt from the previous winter. Fresh oil stains are best tackled with absorbent material, such as cat litter, while older stains must be treated with a root brush and a special oil cleaner. The rule of thumb is: The fresher the oil stains are, the more effectively they can be removed without leaving any residue. If you have a drain, you can also carry out a wet clean, such as with a high-pressure jet washer. Important note: If you do this, it is essential to ventilate the garage thoroughly afterwards so that the moisture can escape. Be sure to check the drain outlet too, as it can get clogged by leaves and litter. So check under the drain grate, and use gloves or a small shovel to remove anything that shouldn’t be in there.
4.) Checking the roof
When cleaning your garage, don't forget the roof. Be sure to check the guttering especially. If it is damaged or clogged, water might penetrate into the wall, causing major damage to the building fabric. It is best to remove leaves and dirt by hand, or use a high-pressure jet washer. Then check that the guttering is clear by flushing it through once.
Routine is key
Never put off cleaning the garage. Check all components at least once a year, and give your garage a care and maintenance once-over. By doing so, you will not only prevent excessive soiling, but will also be able to take early action in case of mould, rust or damage. It’s also an opportunity to regularly check exactly what there is in your garage and have a good clear-out.
