The Why & How Of Garage Door Weatherstripping

As the days gradually grow shorter and the air starts to carry a subtle nip, it’s clear that fall is just around the corner here in Calgary. While you might be prepping your wardrobe for cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice lattes, there’s one often-overlooked task that deserves a spot on your fall to-do list: weatherstripping your garage.

As the temperature starts to drop, ensuring your garage is properly sealed can make a significant difference in keeping the chill out and the warmth in. So, let’s dive into the world of garage weatherstripping and discover why it’s a crucial step in preparing for the upcoming season.

The Lowdown On Garage Weatherstripping

Picture this: you step into your garage on a brisk fall morning, ready to start your day, only to be greeted by a blast of cold air that sends shivers down your spine. It’s not the most pleasant scenario, right? This is where garage door weatherstripping comes to the rescue.

Weatherstripping refers to the sealing material used to close gaps around your garage door, preventing drafts, moisture, and unwanted critters from making their way inside.

Why It Matters

Energy Efficiency

If you’ve been noticing a spike in your energy bills, your garage might be a sneaky culprit. Gaps and cracks around your garage door can lead to significant heat loss, as your cozy indoor warmth escapes into the chilly outdoors. By installing proper weatherstripping, you create a barrier that helps retain heat, making your garage more energy-efficient and wallet-friendly.

Temperature Regulation

Whether you use your garage as a workspace, a storage area, or simply a place to park your car, maintaining a consistent temperature is crucial. Effective weatherstripping keeps the cold air out during fall and winter, ensuring that your garage remains a comfortable space, no matter the weather outside.

Pest Prevention

As the weather cools down, critters and pests seek warmth and shelter. Don’t let your garage become their cozy hideout! Weatherstripping not only seals out the cold but also acts as a deterrent for insects and rodents that might otherwise view your garage as an inviting refuge.

Choosing The Right Garage Weatherstripping

Now that you’re convinced of the benefits, it’s time to choose the right weatherstripping material for your garage door. Here are a few options to consider:

Vinyl Weatherstripping: This affordable option is easy to install and offers good weather resistance. It’s a solid choice for many garage doors, especially in milder climates like ours.
Rubber Weatherstripping: Known for its durability, rubber weatherstripping can effectively block out drafts and moisture. It’s particularly suitable for larger gaps.
Felt Weatherstripping: If your garage door tends to rattle or shake in the wind, felt weatherstripping can help dampen the noise and create a snug fit.
Metal Strip Weatherstripping: For heavy-duty sealing, metal strip weatherstripping is a robust choice. It’s highly effective against extreme weather conditions and offers a long lifespan.

Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Weatherstripping

As with anything in your home or garage, there is a lifespan to your garage door weatherstripping and overtime it will begin to deteriorate. There are a few easy signs to check to keep you comfortable this fall and winter. With your garage door open take a look, as best you can, for any cracks, wear and tear or fraying. Also look for any water leakage and listen for an increase in noise and vibration. These are early signs of problems to come.

With the door closed run your hand along the where the door meets the ground to feel for a draft coming through. Also, with the garage light off, look for any light coming in from under the door. This is another sign that the weatherstripping may not be holding up as well as you want.

If you observe any of the above mentioned indicators, it’s likely time to replace your garage door weatherstripping. High-quality weatherstripping helps maintain energy efficiency, prevent drafts, and keep out pests, so it’s an important aspect of garage maintenance.

While this is a task you can DIY, a lot of us just don’t have the time at the end of the day for home improvement projects. If that sounds like you, give us a call. A1 Garage Doors has been Calgary’s leading garage door repair and maintenance company for over 20 years. We’ll check and replace any old weatherstripping and conduct a quick, routine inspection on the rest of your garage door to confirm everything is working well to get you through winter’s chill. Contact us today at 403-923-8186.

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