Will Gym Equipment Rust in a Garage?

Think twice if you use a garage for gym equipment storage, whether for your commercial business or home setup. The environment can directly impact the longevity of your training machines or products. A garage with improper conditions can accelerate rust development and damage your equipment. Luckily, you can take steps to make your garage a suitable spot.

Check out the leading causes of corrosion and how to prevent rust on gym equipment with a few best practices below.

What Causes Gym Equipment to Rust?

Rust develops because of a chemical reaction, involving metal — often iron or steel — oxygen and water. Other catalysts, such as salt, can also speed up corrosion. The following are the primary causes of rust on gym equipment.

Environmental Conditions

If you keep gym equipment in a garage or other area with significant temperature and humidity fluctuations, it is likely to cause rust. Moisture can cause oxidation on the metal's surface. Hot environments can accelerate the chemical reaction, worsening the rusting process. 

If your garage does not have adequate climate control, you probably do not want to store any gym machines there.

Exposure to Sweat

Gym equipment can be especially susceptible to rust development when exposed to sweat. Our sweat contains salts and acids that can further increase rust formation on metal surfaces. 

Neglecting to wipe away sweat after a workout can contribute to corrosion and reduce the longevity of your machines. 

Damage and Wear

When gym equipment is damaged or overly worn, it is more likely to develop rust. Any activity that impacts the coating or protective layer and exposes the metal can contribute to increased corrosion. 

Carefully monitoring your machines and products is key to catching damage or wear early.

How Do You Protect Equipment From Rust?

Proper care is crucial for preventing rust on gym equipment. Here are a few best practices for protecting your machines:

Routine Maintenance and Cleaning

Clean your gym equipment after each use to keep it in top condition. A microfiber cloth and mild, manufacturer-approved cleaner can remove sweat, moisture and residue from the surface. Ensure all metal parts are thoroughly dried afterward.

Regular maintenance and deep cleaning on a weekly and monthly basis are also essential for combating rust development. Inspect the entire machine, removing any moisture, dirt or debris. Check for early signs of rust, and lubricate all moving parts and joints as needed. 

Proper Storage

Keep your gym equipment off the ground whenever possible. This means using proper storage racks or stands and adding mats below larger machines.

Adequate climate control is crucial to protecting your gym equipment from corrosion. Keep all machines in a well-ventilated space, preferably away from external walls or windows. If moisture and humidity are a problem, consider investing in a quality dehumidifier to remove excess water vapor from the air. 

Environmental controls, such as temperature and humidity management, are key to preventing rust.

Protective Treatments

Another effective way to keep your gym equipment in top condition is to use antirust products. Keeping your machines dry and well-oiled can help prevent significant corrosion. Mineral oils, silicone-based sprays and other lubricants can help create moisture-resistant barriers. Always check with the equipment manufacturer's guidelines to find recommended cleaning products and tools. 

Pay close attention to parts that are prone to rust, such as joints, bolts, weight plate holes or barbell sleeves. Protective treatments can also help inhibit rust development on areas where paint or other finishes are worn off. 

Prompt Attention

If you notice rust developing on your gym equipment, address it promptly so it doesn't spread or worsen. There are a few different ways to remove light rust, like using a wire brush or steel wool to buff off loose debris. You can also leverage products like a rust remover or converter to neutralize the chemical reaction causing the metal to rust. 

Once you remove the rust, consider using a rust-inhibiting primer and paint. Applying oil can also help create an effective moisture barrier between the metal equipment and the environment. 

After addressing the impacted areas, assess the storage settings and make adjustments to minimize the development of rust in the future.

4 Signs Gym Equipment Is Starting to Rust

Explore these telltale signs that your gym equipment is beginning to rust:

1. Visible orange or brown spots: Discoloration is a visual indicator of rust formation. You may notice specks or stains on the metal surfaces.
2. Peeling paint: Flaking or bubbling paint can be a sign of underlying corrosion. This is especially common around welds and high-contact points. 
3. Gritty or rough texture: If once-smooth metal surfaces have raised spots and feel similar to sandpaper, this can indicate rust-related issues.
4. Difficulty to use: Stiff joints, resistance in moving parts, or unsmooth functionality can be signs of rust development.

If you notice one or more of these signs, conduct comprehensive inspections of your gym machines and gear. Address minor issues and replace your equipment as needed to promote secure, effective workouts. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Rust and Gym Equipment

The following are common questions gym owners or managers have regarding rusted equipment and gear.

Can You Remove Deep Rust From Gym Equipment Yourself?

If your equipment has light or moderate rust, you may be able to treat the impacted areas and remove it yourself. However, severe rusting may require a professional's attention for complete restoration. An expert will have the necessary tools and chemicals.

Is Rust Covered by the Equipment's Warranty?

The answer depends on several factors. Consult your warranty's terms. If the rust is caused by a manufacturing defect and the warranty period is active, it may be covered. If corrosion develops due to normal wear and tear or environmental factors, it is likely not covered. 

Is It OK to Use Rusty Gym Equipment?

Minor surface rust on noncritical areas may not impact equipment performance or cause potential risks. However, you should not use machines if severe rusting or corrosion impacts load-bearing or moving parts. 

If you notice significant rust on your equipment, it may be time to invest in new options for your gym.

Find Top-Quality Used Gym Equipment From Global Fitness Today

Whether you need to replace old, rusted equipment or want to expand your gym's current offerings, Global Fitness has a wide variety of gym equipment available. For more than 20 years, we've helped gym owners and managers get the reliable new, refurbished or used equipment they want at great prices. Our experts restore each piece to like-new condition to help you maximize your budget. 

We offer quality cardio and strength equipment, as well as specialized packages for home gyms, weightlifters, personal trainers and more. 

Explore the latest products available from Global Fitness today.