cleaning galvanized metal

[mmsheb]

I would like to clean the tracks on my overhead garage door, as well as the other hardware attached to the door (hinges, roller, etc,). I believe the tracks are galvanized metal, but may be wrong. What is a good way to clean and brighten these?
Thanks,
Mike

 

[Handyfarmer]

I do not think there is a good way to "clean" the galvanization, the darkening of the galvanization is oxidation, and the oils that had coated it during manufacturing have broken down and are no longer coating it,

I know some farmers paint here steel bins with aluminum paint, to "brighten" the old galv, sheets up some, and to cover any rust spots,

most acids will darken galvanized steel more, one can always use a power wire brush and possibly knock off the "patina", but your also removing the product that will keeps the steel from rusting, or at least making thinner,

 

[readhead]

They are galvanized and they are not getting any brighter.

 

[mmsheb]

They are galvanized and they are not getting any brighter.

That's what I was afraid of. Thanks.

I do not think there is a good way to "clean" the galvanization, the darkening of the galvanization is oxidation, and the oils that had coated it during manufacturing have broken down and are no longer coating it,

I know some farmers paint here steel bins with aluminum paint, to "brighten" the old galv, sheets up some, and to cover any rust spots,

most acids will darken galvanized steel more, one can always use a power wire brush and possibly knock off the "patina", but your also removing the product that will keeps the steel from rusting, or at least making thinner,

Thanks. I really don't want to paint, but may consider it.

 

[landlord30]

Me thinks one needs a new hobby?

 

[StreetGLi]

Maybe he's just really good at garaging and he had nothing left to do? Perhaps his joint is so clean and organized all he is left with is to wonder about cleaning and fancifying the things the rest of us lazy individuals ignore..?

Sent from my LG-H873 using Tapatalk

 

[The Cobbler]

ahh, take them off, strip the galvanize & have them powder coated !

 

[6768rogues]

You could clean them and give them a quick shot of spray paint. Eastwood Company sells a paint called Tank Tone, which emulates the look of a new car gas tank.

 

[Stuart in MN]

You could get a can of cold galvanizing spray paint: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000LET8DA/?tag=atomicindus08-20