How to Install Garage Door Weather Seal Stripping
Your garage door is your first defense against external elements, protecting your vehicle and storage items from adverse weather, intruders and unwelcome pests. A structurally sound garage door is critical in keeping these elements out. Reinforcing your garage door with weather stripping provides increased protection and has several other benefits.
In this post, you’ll learn how to seal garage doors in a few easy steps, explore the benefits of weather stripping and how idcAutomatic can seal your door effectively.
How to Install Garage Door Molding or Weather Stripping
Molding or weather stripping is a feasible solution for insulating your garage door. The strips are easy to install, requiring only a few steps to remove the old, worn strips and replace them with new ones.
Follow these simple steps for installing weather stripping or door stop molding:
- Measure the garage door frame: Measure the perimeter of the garage door frame to determine the new strips’ length. Cut the strips to size.
- Remove the old weather stripping: Use a hammer and pry bar to remove the worn strips, nails and screws that kept it in place. Clear the area of debris once removed, specifically the floor around the frame.
- Install the weather stripping: Place the strips along the garage door’s top and sides using minimal pressure. Avoid fixing it too tightly, as it could bind up the door. Secure the strips along the frame by inserting new nails and screws with a cordless driver. Cut off excess material for a clean, neat finish.
- Apply caulk: Seal the weather stripping with caulk to complete the process.
Alternative Sealing Methods
While installing new weather stripping along all garage door sides is effective, you can opt for replacing sections or using alternative methods such as threshold seals and door stop molding.
To seal your garage door, try:
- Replacing the bottom seal:To increase your garage’s warmth, replace the simple strip-style seal on a wood garage door or the aluminum channel on the underside of a metal one. The aluminum channel usually holds a U-shaped rubber gasket that slides into two small tracks for installation. U-shaped gaskets can also be installed on wooden doors, making secure sealing solutions.
- Installing a threshold seal: Threshold seals are attached to the floor — not the door — and can be used with a door seal or alone. Thresholds are excellent for warming your garage because they fill the gaps below the door. They can also keep out surface water. They come with adhesive and are highly durable.
- Instituting garage door panel weather stripping: Use V-shaped weather stripping to seal the gaps between door panels. Wooden doors with flat-edged panels benefit from this form of weatherstripping. Stick the weatherstripping to each panel’s top or bottom edge. It will come with adhesive, so you won’t have to purchase anything separately.
Benefits of Garage Door Weather Stripping
Sealing garage door sides and panels have several benefits you’ll be grateful for when winter arrives. Consider the advantages below.
Prevents Moisture and Water Intrusion
Weather stripping protects your garage from moisture and water infiltration, preventing mold and mildew growth that can ruin your storage items. It creates a barrier against rain and snow in winter and moisture from humidity in warmer climates.
Enhanced Security
Sealing your garage door deters break-ins. The tightened seal is harder to break, making entering through the side gaps difficult. Stored items are also protected from theft with enhanced security, and you’ll keep unwanted pests out.
Protects Garage Door Components
When exposed to moisture and debris, garage door components, especially tracks, springs and other moving parts, are prone to rusting and corroding. Weather stripping helps protect these components by keeping moisture from seeping through the gaps. This promotes a longer garage door life span, reducing the need for frequently replacing and repairing these parts.
Minimizes Noise Pollution
Sealing your garage door improves sound insulation in and outside the garage. It minimizes external noise, such as passing cars and pedestrians. It also helps reduce noise within the garage when doing woodwork or mechanical projects, promoting privacy. This is especially helpful if you use your garage for hobbies or work, causing less disruptions to neighbors.
Improved Energy Efficiency
Proper weather stripping helps maintain your garage door’s insulation, keeping it warm in winter and cool in summer. The tightened seal prevents air from entering and escaping and changing the temperature within the garage. This helps regulate the temperature so your HVAC system doesn’t work harder to maintain a consistent temperature. Improved insulation leads to better energy efficiency and reduced bills.
Weatherproof Your Garage Door Today
At idcAutomatic, we can replace and install weather stripping to keep harsh elements and unwanted pests out of your garage and home. We also offer 24-hour service, quick delivery and extended warranties. Our experienced professionals have the skill, knowledge and equipment for seamless garage door repairs and installations for peace of mind, knowing you’re dealing with the best. We’ve been providing unparalleled service solutions to our customers in the Twin Cities since 1974.
Contact us today for a free estimate to seal your garage door so you can experience the benefits of weatherproofing. Or, call us, and we’ll answer your weatherproofing questions about your residential or commercial garage door.