A dented garage door isn’t just an eyesore—it can mess with how your door opens and closes, too.
Whether it’s from a bump, a bash, or years of wear, you don’t have to live with it.
In this guide, we’ll show you simple ways to fix dents and get your door looking (and working) like new again, plus when it’s smarter to call in the pros.
How to fix a dented garage door?
To fix a dented garage door, gently hammer out the dent with a rubber mallet, using a block of wood for protection. For larger dents, you may need to replace the panel or call a pro.
Key Takeaways
- Small dents in garage doors can often be fixed with simple tools and methods.
- The approach varies depending on the material of the door (steel, aluminium, or wood).
- For large or deep dents, professional repair may be necessary to ensure long-term durability.
Assessing the Damage
Before you jump into the repair process, it’s essential to assess the severity of the damage.
Small dents and minor imperfections are easier to fix, but larger or more significant dents may require professional attention.
Small Dents
Small, shallow dents are often caused by accidents like accidentally hitting the door with a car or a heavy object.
These dents are usually easy to fix and do not require a complete replacement of the door.
Deep Dents
Deeper dents are more complicated and can affect the structural integrity of the garage door.
If the dent is large, deep, or located near critical components, it may require professional repairs to restore proper function.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
If you’ve assessed the damage and are confident that you can tackle the repair yourself, gather the following tools and materials:
- Hammer or rubber mallet
- Pliers
- Screwdriver
- Wood block or rubber padding
- Sandpaper or a wire brush
- Body filler (if necessary)
- Paint touch-up kit (for steel or aluminium doors)
- Dry cloth for cleaning
Step-by-Step Instructions for Fixing a Dented Garage Door
Step 1: Clean the Area
Before starting any repair work, clean the dented area thoroughly. Use a dry cloth to remove dust, dirt, and debris.
If there’s any grease or sticky residue, use a cleaner to wipe it down. This will ensure that the adhesive, filler, or paint you use later sticks properly.
Step 2: Assess the Type of Door Material
Different materials require different methods. Whether your door is steel, aluminium, or wood will affect how you approach the repair. Here’s a breakdown:
Steel and Aluminium Doors
These materials are typically thinner, and dents can often be fixed using the hammer or rubber mallet method.
Wooden Doors
Wooden doors are thicker and may need additional repairs if the dent has caused structural damage.
Step 3: Using a Rubber Mallet or Hammer
For small to moderate dents, a rubber mallet or hammer is the best tool to use. Follow these steps:
Place a wood block or rubber padding behind the dent to prevent damaging the opposite side of the door.
Tap gently around the edges of the dent using a rubber mallet or hammer to gradually lift the metal back into place. Avoid hitting the centre of the dent directly, as this could make it worse.
If the dent is shallow, it may pop back into shape with gentle tapping. For deeper dents, you may need to apply more force.
Step 4: Using Pliers for Small Dents
For smaller, shallower dents, pliers can be a useful tool for pushing out the dent from the inside. Here’s how to do it:
Locate the dent from the inside of the door.
Use the pliers to gently grip and pull the dent outward, working from the edges of the dent to the centre. Be sure to apply steady, even pressure to avoid damaging the door.
Once the dent is back in place, you may need to tap the edges of the area lightly with a rubber mallet to smooth out any imperfections.
Step 5: Using Body Filler for Deeper Dents
If the dent is deep or has caused cracks in the door, you may need to use body filler to smooth out the damage. Here’s how to apply it:
Clean the dented area thoroughly to remove any debris or dirt.
Apply body filler to the dent using a putty knife. Smooth it out to create an even surface that matches the surrounding area.
Let the filler dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Once the filler is dry, sand the surface down to ensure it’s flush with the rest of the door.
You can now paint over the filler to match the rest of the door’s colour.
Repainting and Touch-Ups
Once the dent has been repaired and the surface smoothed out, you may need to repaint the area to restore your garage door to its original look. Here’s how:
Choose the right paint: For steel or aluminium doors, use a paint that’s designed for metal surfaces. If the door is wooden, choose a paint that’s suitable for wood.
Apply a primer: If you’ve used body filler or exposed metal, apply a primer to help the paint adhere properly.
Paint the repaired area: Use a brush or roller to apply the paint, blending it with the surrounding area. Apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat for the best results.
Let the paint dry: Allow the paint to dry completely before operating the door.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I fix a garage door dent myself?
Yes, small to moderate dents can often be repaired with a rubber mallet, pliers, or body filler. However, larger or deeper dents may require professional repair.
2. How long will it take to repair a dented garage door?
The repair time depends on the size of the dent and the method used. Small dents may take just a couple of hours, while larger repairs could take longer, especially if painting or body filler is required.
3. Should I repaint my garage door after repairing a dent?
Yes, it’s a good idea to repaint the door after repairing a dent to restore its appearance and protect it from the elements.
Conclusion
Repairing a dented garage door doesn’t have to be a complicated or costly task.
With the right tools and techniques, you can restore your garage door to its original condition and prevent further damage.
If you find that the damage is too severe, don’t hesitate to contact a professional to ensure the job is done right.
Regular maintenance and care will help prolong the lifespan of your garage door and keep it looking good for years to come.
