Having effective weather seals on your garage door is crucial for protecting your home from the elements. Over time, these seals can deteriorate, potentially letting in rain, snow, or small pests. By replacing them, you can enjoy greater peace of mind and comfort.

Discover how you can easily replace your garage door weather stripping with help from our experts.

What are the Benefits of Garage Door Weather Stripping?

Weather seals on your garage door not only shield your home and belongings from weather and pests but also help maintain a stable indoor temperature. By sealing any gaps around your garage door, you can create a more comfortable environment and reduce your utility bills.

Why Replace Your Weatherstrip

If you have an older garage door, it likely doesn’t seal very well. An improperly sealed garage door can let cold air in and warm air escape, affecting your garage’s temperature and energy efficiency. Garage door weatherstripping is designed to shield the interior from the elements and enhance energy efficiency.

Over time, weatherstripping can become dry, brittle, and cracked, or it may even fall out due to wear and tear. When this occurs, it’s crucial to replace the weather seal promptly to continue enjoying its benefits. Replacing damaged weatherstripping is a cost-effective fix that can significantly improve weather protection and reduce energy costs over time.

How It Works: Garage Door Weatherstrip

A garage door weatherstrip, also known as a bottom seal, is a rubber or vinyl strip placed between the bottom of the garage door and the concrete floor. Its primary function is to keep cold air out during winter and retain warm air in summer, as well as to prevent drafts, which can lead to higher energy costs, and protect against water and dust infiltration.

Depending on your climate, installing a single piece of weatherstrip can significantly enhance your garage’s energy efficiency.

Weatherstrip Material

These seals, which are typically made of rubber or vinyl, attach to the bottom edge of the garage door using a steel, PVC, or aluminum retainer. When the door is closed, the seals compress against the floor to form a tight barrier that blocks water, dirt, debris, extreme temperatures, and pests. They are generally installed within a retainer on most garage doors, but can also be nailed directly to the bottom edge of wooden doors.

How to Install a Garage Door Bottom Weatherstrip

1. Remove the Old Weatherstrip

To begin replacing your weather stripping, you need to remove the existing seals from the garage door frame. This is usually simple and requires just a hammer, pry bar, or flathead screwdriver.

Start by placing your tool under the edge of the weather seal. Gently push the tool away from your body, which will lift the nail and strip. Repeat this near each nail for a clean removal. Once the first strip is off, use the same method to remove the rest.

2. Measure and Cut the New Weatherstrip

Weather strips often come pre-cut in lengths ranging from 7 to 9 feet. To determine the exact size you need, measure the length of your existing weather seals with a tape measure.

For efficiency, you can place the old weather seal on top of the new one and trace its outline with a pencil to mark the length you need. Then, cut the new strip to size using a box cutter or hand saw. It is a good idea to cut the side pieces about 1/4 inch shorter than the height of your garage to avoid them touching the ground, which could cause them to collect water and potentially rot.

3. Remove the Old Gasket

Use a screwdriver to remove any screws holding the old gasket in place, being careful not to damage the steel door.

4. Install the New Gasket

Slide the new gasket into the existing bracket sleeve and secure it to the bottom of the door using screws. Try to use the same holes from the old gasket to avoid damaging the door. Trim any excess gasket length with a utility knife or hand saw, taking care not to damage the door’s surface.

5. Check the Seal

Lower the door and inspect the seal to ensure it is continuous along the bottom. Ensure the new gasket fits your specific garage door model. Before manually raising the door, disconnect it from the opener.

Once everything is correctly positioned, test the garage door by opening and closing it to ensure smooth operation. Make any necessary adjustments, then fully secure the seals with nails. Your garage will now be better protected and more energy-efficient!

Replace Your Garage Door Weather Stripping With Us

Replace a weather strip or update your current seal with Woodlands Garage Door. Serving The Woodlands for over 35 years, we have years of experience to make sure it’s done right. 

If you have any questions about weather sealing your garage door or would like help in doing so, reach out to us today!