Keep the Cold Out: Replacing Garage Door Weatherstripping

The rubber seal at the bottom of your garage door (the astragal) takes a beating. It gets crushed against the concrete, frozen in winter, and baked in summer. Over time, it cracks and flattens, letting in cold air, rain, leaves, and even mice.

Signs You Need New Weatherstripping

• Daylight: Close the door and turn off the lights. If you see light shining through the bottom, you have a gap.
• Drafts: You feel cold air rushing in near the floor.
• Water: Rainwater pools inside the garage after a storm.
• Pests: You’re finding bugs or rodents in the garage.

Types of Seals

1. T-Style or Bulb: Slides into a channel on the bottom of the door. Most common on metal doors.
2. Nail-On: Nailed directly to the bottom of wooden doors.

How to Replace (T-Style)

1. Remove the Old Seal: Open the door halfway. Slide the old rubber out of the tracks. You might need pliers if it’s stuck.
2. Clean the Track: Use a screwdriver and rag to clean dirt out of the aluminum channel.
3. Install the New Seal: Fold the new rubber into a “U” shape and slide the T-ends into the tracks. It helps to have a helper feed it while you pull.
4. Trim: Cut off any excess rubber, leaving about an inch on each side to tuck back in.

Don’t Forget the Sides!

The vinyl weatherstripping around the door frame (stop molding) also seals out drafts. If it’s cracked, pry it off and nail up new strips, pressing them gently against the door face for a tight seal.

Related Resources

• Insulating Your Garage Door - Weatherstripping complements door insulation for maximum efficiency
• Insulated vs Uninsulated Doors - Even uninsulated doors benefit from good seals
• Seasonal Maintenance Checklist - Check weatherstripping twice a year
• Cleaning Garage Door - Keep seals clean to extend their life

Maintenance Services: Panel Replacement • Door Installation

Service available in: East Orange • Montclair • Fair Lawn • All areas

Ready to schedule? Book your free estimate or call (201) 554-6769.