Whether it is summer thunderstorms or freezing winter air, the elements can seep into your garage and wreak havoc on items stored there. Barely noticeable small leaks can result in mold, mildew and pest infestations because they evolve over time. What’s your best defense? Sealing your garage door in three major places.
Sealing blocks water, insects and other pests from entering your garage increases energy efficiency and blocks noise, creating a more ideal environment for storage, working or lounging. The goal is to have a cool, dry space that is free of debris and moisture. And though insulated doors are highly effective, a break in a seal could undermine their efficiency.
Areas to Seal
Main areas that can become vulnerable over time: the space along the top, sides, and bottom of the garage door. There are a few different strategies to try to close any gaps:
Cover the space between the door and the floor. There are two different ways to do this:
- Seal the garage door bottom
- Place the seal on the garage floor so that the door rests on top
Line the top and sides of the door. It’s not completely flush, the space between the door and the jamb, because the door needs space to raise and lower. Weatherstriping between these two surfaces, however, smooths the gap and adds protection.
How to Seal Your Garage Door
You’ll need a few different types of sealants:
Door bottom seal: The strip is made of vinyl or rubber, and it is tacked or fitted to an aluminum track stretching across the bottom of the door. This type of barrier blocks water, dirt and debris, animals and pests.
Threshold seal: Usually made of rubber, a threshold seal adheres to the garage floor. It’s very effective in blocking water and debris, so much so that the barrier might make sweeping out the garage challenging.
Weatherstrip: Garage door weatherstrip wedges between the doorframe and the garage door, and it is easily nailed into place.
It’s that easy to seal your garage door but to get the best results, try installing an insulated garage door. We’ve got a great selection. Contact us for a consultation!