Weather Stripping For Garage Doors

Weather stripping is a crucial component of any garage door system, as it helps to prevent air and moisture from entering the garage. By sealing gaps around the edges of the door, weather stripping helps to maintain a comfortable indoor environment, reduce energy costs, and protect your belongings from the elements. In this article, we will delve into the different types of weather stripping available for garage doors and provide guidance on choosing the best option for your specific needs.

There are two main types of weather stripping for garage doors: flexible and rigid. Flexible weather stripping is made from materials like rubber or vinyl and is designed to conform to the contours of the door and jamb. It is typically used to seal gaps between the door and the jamb, as well as along the bottom of the door. Rigid weather stripping, on the other hand, is made from materials like metal or plastic and is used to create a more permanent seal. It is often used around the perimeter of the door frame.

When choosing weather stripping for your garage door, there are several factors to consider, including the type of door you have, the climate in your area, and your budget. For example, if you live in a cold climate, you will need to choose a weather stripping material that is resistant to extreme temperatures and will not become brittle or crack. You should also consider the ease of installation and maintenance when selecting weather stripping.

Some of the most common types of weather stripping for garage doors include:

Bulb seal: A bulb seal is a flexible weather stripping that is made from rubber or vinyl. It is designed to create a tight seal around the edges of the door and is commonly used on overhead garage doors.
J-strip: A J-strip is a rigid weather stripping that is made from metal or plastic. It is used to seal the gap between the door and the frame and is often used on roll-up garage doors.
Z-strip: A Z-strip is a flexible weather stripping that is made from rubber or vinyl. It is used to seal the gap between the door and the jamb and is commonly used on tilt-up garage doors.
Threshold seal: A threshold seal is a rigid weather stripping that is made from metal or plastic. It is used to seal the gap between the bottom of the door and the floor and is often used on all types of garage doors.

Once you have chosen the right weather stripping for your garage door, the next step is to install it properly. The installation process will vary depending on the type of weather stripping you have chosen, but there are some general guidelines that you can follow:

Clean the surface of the door and jamb where the weather stripping will be installed.
Apply adhesive to the back of the weather stripping.
Press the weather stripping into place and smooth it out with a putty knife or other tool.
Allow the adhesive to dry completely before using the door.

Properly installed weather stripping will help to keep your garage warm and dry, and it will also help to reduce energy costs. By following the tips in this article, you can choose the right weather stripping for your garage door and install it properly to ensure years of trouble-free operation.