Garage door weather stripping is a crucial component in maintaining the efficiency, safety, and longevity of your garage. It prevents elements like water, wind, and pests from entering, and helps maintain temperature control, which is particularly important if your garage is attached to your home or if you use the space for work or leisure activities. Choosing and installing the right type of weather stripping can save you money on energy bills and protect your garage contents from damage. This article will guide you through selecting the best weather stripping for your garage door and provide step-by-step instructions on how to install it.
Choosing the Right Weather Stripping
1. Material Consideration: Weather stripping comes in various materials including rubber, vinyl, and silicone. Each has its benefits:
- Rubber is durable and good for extreme temperatures but can degrade over time.
- Vinyl is moisture-resistant and works well in wet climates but may become brittle in cold weather.
- Silicone is highly flexible and effective across a range of temperatures, making it a premium choice for weatherproofing.
2. Type of Weather Stripping:
- Bottom Seal: The most common type, which runs along the bottom of the door. It’s crucial for preventing water, dust, and pests from entering underneath the door.
- Threshold Seal: This is installed on the floor rather than on the door and creates a raised barrier at the entrance. It’s especially useful in areas prone to water leakage or where a stronger barrier is needed.
- Side and Top Seals: These strips are applied around the top and sides of the garage door to close gaps and provide a complete seal.
3. Compatibility with Your Door: Ensure the weather stripping you choose is compatible with the type of garage door you have. Some stripping is designed for wooden doors, while others are suited for metal or fiberglass doors.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Weather stripping kit
- Tape measure
- Utility knife or scissors
- Pencil or marker
- Screwdriver or drill
- Nails or screws (depending on the kit)
- Cleaning supplies (to prepare the surface)
Installation Process
Step 1: Measure and Cut Measure the garage door where you will apply the weather stripping. Cut your materials to size with a utility knife or scissors, leaving a little extra length to ensure a snug fit.
Step 2: Clean and Prep the Area Clean the areas where you will be installing the weather stripping. Remove any old stripping and adhesive residues. Ensure the surfaces are dry and free from dirt and grease to help the new stripping adhere properly.
Install the Bottom Seal For a bottom seal:
- If your door has a retainer, slide the new seal into the retainer’s tracks. If the door does not have a retainer, you may need to install one or use a self-adhesive seal.
- For retainers that require it, secure the seal with screws at each end and every few feet along the door to prevent slipping.
Threshold Seal
- Place the threshold seal on the ground where the door closes. Mark the position on the floor with a pencil.
- Apply adhesive if required, then press the seal into place according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow the adhesive to cure for the recommended time.
Install Side and Top Seals
- Start at one top corner of the door frame and work your way down with the side seals, then across with the top seal. Most seals will either nail into place or have a self-adhesive backing. Ensure that each section is tightly fitted against the door frame to prevent gaps.
Check and Adjust Once all parts are installed, check the seals by closing the door and looking for light leaks or gaps. Make adjustments as needed to ensure a tight fit.
Conclusion
Installing garage door weather stripping is a practical DIY project that can significantly enhance the comfort and efficiency of your garage space. By choosing the right materials and carefully following installation guidelines, you can ensure that your garage remains dry, comfortable, and energy-efficient, reg/ardless of the weather outside.