Enjoy this style? This garage door is a Standard+ Shaker-Flat XL, 9' x 8', Black, Clear windows.
Keep all unwanted elements from getting into your garage
Whether the gap in your door is small or large, it can leave an opening for several things. Critters like mice, insects, and even larger pests can get in if you don’t keep the door sealed properly. These pests can easily destroy your belongings and wreak havoc.
Then, there’s weather to consider. Sand, rain and snow, and even cold winds can seep through the garage door crack. That can impact your electricity bill and risk ruining things in your garage. Moisture can cause big issues when it gets into the garage and isn’t addressed.
No worries, though! We’ve got solutions to help. Check out the three tips below to ensure your garage door fully closes all year long.
1- Time to Upgrade the Weatherstripping
What’s the bottom weatherstrip?
A garage door weatherstrip usually consists of PVC, rubber, or another durable insulating material that goes around your door to keep the elements out. There are different types of seals for different types of garage doors. The type that you choose, and having the right one, can make a big impact on the durability and insulation of your garage door.
A u-shaped bottom weatherstripping offers a flexible fit that’s adaptable to all floors. It should be made of non-rigid material like rubber or PVC, and will be simple to install. These strips can even resist temperatures as low as -62℉ (-52℃)!
Check out the U-nique design of the U-shaped weatherstripping. What do you think?
Is it Time for a Change?
It might be time to change your weatherstripping if the seal is starting to break apart, dry out and crack, or just looks worn. You should also consider regular inspections of the weatherstripping and other seals. This is commonly done in the fall to protect the garage from the harsh winter elements.
Regular maintenance will also help ensure your garage door is in good condition. You’ll also be able to fix small issues before they become big problems and can improve the safety and security of your garage and your home.
Tip: Every maintenance routine should include a quality lubricant!
You’ll want to consider a silicone-based lubricant that is designed to be used with PVC weatherstripping and seals. There are petroleum-based lubricants, but they will cause the material to harden and reduce the durability of the weatherstripping, which is exactly the opposite of what you want. Consider lubrication as part of maintenance at least two times a year.
- Garage doors need inspected in the Spring. This will help you check for defective parts or things that could have been damaged for the winter months. Replace anything that’s damaged immediately so that you avoid further damage.
- You’ll also prep for winter by inspecting your garage door and performing maintenance in the fall. This will help protect the door from moisture and corrosion, as well as protecting from other cold weather issues.
You want to be sure that you find the best weatherstripping possible. You should talk to a professional to figure out what’s best for your garage door, and always shop with the most reputable places to ensure you get high-quality materials.
How do you change the garage weatherstripping?
You can change your door-bottom weatherstripping yourself, provided you have the parts to do so. Then, you can use this website for reference on how to replace the weatherstripping step-by-step.
You may want to ask for the help of a garage door specialist, who knows how to install weatherstripping properly and might even be able to spot other things that need attention.
2- How’s the Floor?
This image shows how to install a door threshold that is efficient and secure. Having both an outward and inward slope will ensure the water drains out.
Outside
An outward slope will be necessary to help the driveway channel the water from rain and snow melt into the street so that it doesn’t wind up in the garage.
Inside
You need a floor that is free from cracks and has a flat surface. The good news is that having a U-shaped weatherstrip on the bottom can provide some extra give to cover that uneven gap.
You’ll also find garage door seal strips that are available to help compensate for gaps in your garage floor. There is something called threshold seal that is very easy to install. It’s made of a flexible rubber material, and just needs to be cut and glued in place.
There are also different concrete floor finishes that you can choose from. This depends on your needs and your tastes, but you’ll find plenty of durable and resistant options:
- Epoxy: Epoxy adds durability and can also add style. You’ll find plenty of designs and colors to inspire your creativity!
- Paint: Concrete paint goes a long way in refreshing your garage floor. You can find all kinds of colors, but make sure you choose a finish that cleans easily and doesn’t create a slip and fall risk.
- Tiles: There are tiles for garage use that are made of wood, plastic, or rubber materials. These can be great for a padded floor and to avoid costly repairs.
- Mats: A roll-out mat is the easiest way to cover the floor in the garage. Depending on what you use your garage for, there are different types of materials available.
Concrete cracks
Some concrete cracks are worse than others. They all need to be addressed, however. Check out this blog that explains each cause and the best solution for repair:
- Cold joints
If cold joints have been discovered, it could be that concrete was not mixed or blended correctly. This typically happens when applying multiple batches, and one starts to harden before the new one is poured.
- Cracks during foundation settling or construction
Settling happens to a home, and even during the construction process this may be seen. This could result in some cracks, but they are typically normal and not to be concerned about.
- Hairline cracks
These small cracks almost miss getting noticed by the naked eye. They’re often the result of poor surface prep, or because the compaction or wire mesh wasn’t put in correctly.
What do you think caused this crack? Is it worth concern? Image courtesy of Pixabay.
Tip 1: While you can’t keep concrete from cracking, you can at least control where it does crack. Cut what are known as “linear control joints” that will run the cracks where you want them to go and keep them from spidering out.
Tip 2: Watch for cracks when cleaning the floor. Figure out whether they’re superficial or could be a sign of foundation issues.
3- Adjust your garage door opener
Once things are in place, it’s time to adjust the electric garage door opener. Your weatherstripping should be tight to the garage floor but not so tight that it’s crushed.
Check your garage door opener manual to see what they recommend for making adjustments. Test your safety systems, including the safety reversal system and the protector system. This will ensure your door is in good operation.
Test the job by putting your fingers between the threshold and the weatherstripping. If it’s easy to get your fingers in the crack, you’ve done everything right.
You like this look? This garage door is a Cambridge CM, 9' x 7', Ice White door and overlays, 4 lite Panoramic windows.
Call our professionals now
Get in touch today to speak to local garage door specialists that can help with all types of repairs and installations. They can even help with things like weatherstripping and offer tips and assistance.
With Car-Wal Garage Doors you’ll be able to trust that your door is ready for whatever comes its way.
Create a brand-new door now
Take the time to find the garage door style that matches your exterior or home design. Then, you can use our Design Centre to create the door of your dreams. We even have an image gallery that you can use for inspiration!
We offer all the garage door services that you need, including maintenance, installation, and more. Give us a call at 519-685-9797 or ask for a free quote through email. We’ll be ready to start when you are!
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