If you accidentally bump your garage door with your vehicle, sustaining some light damage to the wood as a result, it can be repaired easily on your own. Here are some instructions for your use to help you make the necessary repairs so you can use your garage door again.

Materials You Will Need

• Bucket of soapy water
• Sponge
• Needle nose pliers
• Epoxy wood putty
• Putty knife
• Medium and fine-grit sandpaper
• Sander
• Painter's tape
• Paint
• Paint roller
• Paintbrush

Evaluating The Damage

Before you start making repairs, make sure the damage is minimal. Take a look at the interior side of your garage door to see if there are any cracks or holes visible. If so, the damage will need to be handled by a professional garage door contractor. If the damage is limited to the exterior of your door, and the holes are less than the size of a tennis ball, bring out your tools to start the repair.

Preparing The Surface

The first step in preparing the surface for repair is to give it a good cleaning so you will see all the affected areas. This is also important so the epoxy filler you use to make the repair adheres without obstruction. Use a sponge dipped in soapy water to cleanse the areas where repair needs to be done. If you notice any splintering or small chunks of wood protruding from holes or cracks, remove them with needle nose pliers. Use a pressure washer or garden hose to rinse your door and let it dry before making repairs.

Making The Repair

Use epoxy wood filler to make repairs to your wood garage door. Mold a piece of filler between your fingers until it becomes pliable. Press it into the affected area and smooth it into place using a putty knife. Allow the filler to harden according to the package directions. Use a piece of medium-grit sandpaper to sand down the hardened filler so it is level with the wood of the garage door. Switch to a piece of fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface to the touch.

Finishing The Job

Use painter's tape to cover any areas, such as windows or molding, that you do not wish to have repainted. Paint your garage door using a paintbrush or a roller. If there are any areas of detailing, paint them with a small paintbrush. Allow the paint to dry completely before opening your garage door. Contact Quality Doors for more information.