Sealing your garage door protects your garage’s interior from the elements, improves energy efficiency, and keeps out pests. This guide will explain the process of sealing garage doors, from understanding the different types of seals to step-by-step installation instructions. Follow these tips, and your garage will remain dry, secure, and energy-efficient year-round.
Understanding Garage Door Seals
A garage door bottom seal, also known as a weather seal, is a long strip of rubber material attached to the bottom of the garage door. When the door is closed, this strip compresses to cover the gap between the door’s bottom and the floor, creating an airtight seal.
These strips can protect against weather elements (wind, rain, and moisture) and prevent dirt, debris, and critters from entering your garage. They also help keep heat or air conditioning inside, which can lead to energy savings. Since seals protect garage door components from exposure, this leads to a longer garage lifespan.
Types of Garage Door Bottom Seals
There are several types of garage door bottom seals, each designed for specific applications:
- J-Type: A single channel retainer seal that fits under the door and forms a J shape on either side when closed.
- T-Type: Similar to the J-Type, but forms an inverted T shape when the door is closed.
- Bulb or Tube Type: Long flat tubes that press against the bottom of the door and the concrete, spreading out to seal uneven spaces.
- Beaded Type: Used specifically for double channel retainers, these seals fit snugly between grooves and bend upward slightly to prevent moisture intrusion.
What is a Garage Door Retainer?
A garage door retainer is the slot or track that the seal slides into. Some retainers are designed for specific seal sizes and shapes, while others are universal.
Choosing the Right Garage Door Seal
Selecting the appropriate seal for a garage door depends on various factors, including the door type, climate, and specific sealing needs.
Best Overall: Universal Weather Stripping Kit
For a versatile solution that fits most garage doors, a universal weather stripping kit is an excellent choice. These kits typically feature high-grade, durable rubber that can be easily cut to size. The best kits offer compatibility with various door sizes and retainer types, waterproof and semi-soundproof properties, flexibility to balance uneven thresholds, and the possibility of installation without having to get specialized tools. When selecting a universal kit, homeowners should consider temperature ratings to ensure the seal will perform well in their climate.
Best for Insulation: Heavy-Duty Weather Seal
For those prioritizing garage door insulation, a heavy-duty weather seal is the way to go. These seals are typically made of thicker, higher-grade rubber, providing superior insulation against temperature extremes and noise. Usually, heavy-duty seals have prime temperature resistance (often rated for -40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit), enhanced soundproofing capabilities, the durability to withstand frequent use, and compatibility with most standard garage door tracks.
Homeowners should measure their garage door track width to ensure compatibility, as some heavy-duty seals may not fit tracks wider than 2 inches. The added insulation and soundproofing make this an ideal option for garages used as workshops or additional living space.
Best Threshold Seal: Floor-Mounted Weatherproof Strip
Combining a bottom seal with a threshold seal is ideal to create a complete seal. A floor-mounted weatherproof strip adheres to the garage floor where it meets the door. Benefits of these seals include extra protection against water, debris, and pests, compatibility with any size garage door, ability to withstand vehicle traffic, and the option to cut them to size with a utility knife.
When installing a threshold seal, homeowners should be prepared to purchase adhesive separately, as it’s often not included with the product.
Best for Single Channel Retainers: T-Type Rubber Seal
A T-type rubber seal is often the best fit for garage doors with single-channel retainers. These seals are designed to form a tight seal with minimal gaps. You can easily install them into single-track systems, and they offer durable protection against the elements.
Homeowners should verify their door model compatibility before purchasing, as some T-type seals are designed for specific brands or models.
Best for Rodent Prevention: Anti-Rodent Seal Kit
An anti-rodent seal kit offers specialized protection in areas prone to rodent intrusion. These kits typically combine multiple components. The flexible T-type seal is for general waterproofing and sealing the door against the outside. Together with the anti-rodent insert to prevent chewing and the brush filter to eliminate gaps, the door deters and prevents rodents, big and small.
While effective against pests, homeowners should note that these multi-piece systems may not provide as tight a seal as single-piece options combined with a threshold seal.
How To Replace a Garage Door Bottom Seal
Replacing a garage door bottom seal is a manageable DIY project for most homeowners. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Raise the garage door to a comfortable working height.
- Locate and remove any screws or mechanisms holding the old seal in place.
- Remove the old seal by maneuvering it out of the retainer track. If difficult, cut the seal into sections for easier removal.
- Clean the retainer track and tighten any loose screws.
- Lubricate the new seal with a mixture of water and dish soap to ease installation.
- Feed the new seal into the track, starting at one end and working across. An extra set of hands can be helpful.
- Ensure the seal is properly positioned with the ridged side facing outward.
- Secure the seal by replacing any screws or mechanisms removed earlier.
Additional Garage Door Sealing Methods
While bottom seals are important, other areas of a garage door may require sealing for complete protection. Attention to these additional sealing techniques can significantly impact the performance of your garage door system.
Top and Side Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping along the top and sides of the garage door helps create a complete seal when the door is closed. This prevents air leaks and keeps out dust and debris. Sealing these areas well protects your entire garage from weather conditions.
Brush Seals
Brush seals are particularly effective for sealing uneven surfaces or areas with slight gaps. Use them in conjunction with rubber seals for enhanced protection. The brush’s bristles provide flexibility, making it easier to seal awkward or uneven areas around the garage door.
V-Type Seals Between Panels
For sectional garage doors, install V-type seals between panels to prevent air and moisture from seeping through the joints. These seals are instrumental in maintaining the integrity of the panels and ensuring overlap where necessary.
Maintaining Garage Door Seals
Things like inspecting your seals regularly for wear or damage, cleaning them with mild soap and water to remove dirt and debris, applying a silicone-based lubricant to keep rubber seals pliable, and replacing seals every few years can help extend their lifespans. Committing to routine maintenance can save money in the long run by reducing the need for replacements and preventing energy loss.
