The average life span of a garage door is approximately 20 years. But if maintained properly, this can be much longer.
One of the often-overlooked parts of the garage door that also requires maintenance is garage door weather stripping trim.
Weatherstripping is a great way to protect your garage door from the elements, it’s an essential part of a garage door because it keeps water, debris, leaves, and critters out of your garage.
It is particularly important in Calgary during the winter months as it prevents water from seeping in which can freeze over and form a layer of ice, but it can be tricky to know which weather stripping options are best for your home.
If it’s been a while since you last checked, then now is the time to do so. It could be because of all the dust and dirt accumulated over time which can cause damage to your garage door weather stripping trim. When this happens, it may not work properly anymore.
The good news is that if you take care of it on regular basis, it can last a long time. However, if left unattended for long periods, they might get damaged beyond repair and will have to be replaced eventually. This means more money spent by homeowners who don’t realize how important maintaining their garage doors are until something goes wrong
You can prevent slip and fall accidents by researching garage door weather stripping in Calgary and hiring a reputable company for your garage door repair needs, including weather stripping.
What is Weather Stripping?
Weather stripping is a process that protects your home from the elements and any other unwanted objects from entering. It seals any opening around windows and doors, including your garage door. The items used in the process are also referred to as weather stripping.
Weather stripping is attached to the side and bottom of a garage door. It is typically rubber but is available in other materials as well. Weather stripping:
- Can protect your garage from the weather, moisture and animals
- Is essential especially if you use your garage to store things
- Prevents leaves and other debris from getting into your garage
- Prevents water from seeping in, especially if the floor isn’t even
The average cost of weather stripping is $135 – $250. It all depends on the number of doors or windows that need sealing and the quantity of material needed. It actually pays for itself during its lifespan.
There are many choices available when it comes to weather stripping for your garage door. Choosing the best option for you can be overwhelming. It is best to do your research to ensure you buy the weather stripping that is best for your garage door.
Signs You Need New Weather Stripping
Weather stripping is essential, especially during Canada’s winter months. It can break down over time so it is also important to know the signs that indicate that you need to change your weather stripping.
The last thing you want is for your garage door not to seal properly, letting water, dust, leaves and other debris into your home. You also don’t want a drafty doorway that wastes energy and makes it uncomfortable for family members inside of the house during cold winter months.
The following signs will tell you if you need weather stripping or if your existing weather stripping needs repairing.
- There is a space under your garage door that is evident because when the door is shut you can see outside
- Your garage is draftier or colder
- The metal on and around your garage door is rusting
- You’re noticing puddles of water near or around your garage door
- There are visible signs of wear and tear or cracks
If you notice any of these signs, you should call a company that provides garage door services.
Types of Garage Door Weather Stripping in Calgary
The main types of garage door weather stripping available include:
Bottom Seal – garage door bottom seal weather stripping is most effective at keeping the garage clean by preventing debris, leaves and other objects from entering. There are two types of bottom seal garage door weather stripping:
- Single Chain Retainer – this type of seal attaches at one point on the garage door
- Double Chain Retainer – this seal attaches at two points of the garage door
Threshold Seal – is best for water protection. Threshold seals attach to the floor. They work with the bottom seal to elevate the entrance to the garage. They come in various strengths and sizes and can withstand the weight of a car.
Vinyl Door Stop with Integrated Weather Strip – these fit along the sides of the garage door and help prevent shifting of the door after installation. They are usually nailed into the door, providing a water-tight seal from top to bottom.
Brush Seal – these attach to the bottom of the door and are usually used in high-friction areas or on the doors that flex or bend. They are also usually installed along the sides of the door. Despite their durability, when used as bottom seals, they are less effective at keeping out water or preventing water leaks.
But they are one of the best options when used as side seals.
Reverse Angle Mount Seal – used as an alternative to the brush seal and vinyl door stop for the sides of the door. They are usually made of hard, rubber plastic which creates a track for the side of the door to run along. They fit snugly around both sides of the door and form the shape of a ‘U’ around the door.
They are typically found in commercial buildings as they are usually used on heavy steel doors that screws can’t penetrate.
It is good to be familiar with the different type of garage door weather stripping trim. Get advice from a professional that can guide you on the type of weather stripping that would work well with your garage door. Remember, your weather stripping can only work well only if installed and maintained properly, so ensure you find a reputable company.
Weather Stripping Material
Any garage door service company can also advise you on the type of material you should use for your weather stripping, as there are also many choices to select from.
- Foam – is the least expensive and easiest to install
- Felt – keeps out wind draft better than foam
- Rubber/Silicone – is more expensive and complicated compared to the two above
Some of the materials used for weather stripping resist water, while others keep out leaves and debris. The right type will keep grass, rain, bugs and leaves out of your garage.
The Right Protection for Your Garage
Weather stripping is important. When it is properly installed and well-maintained, it prevents the need for expensive garage door repairs. You can ensure the installation of your weather stripping is well done by using one of the best companies that provide garage door weather stripping in Calgary.
There’s no need to worry about this important task because Express Garage Door Services will help you find the right solution for your home or business in Calgary. We’ll walk you through all of your options and make sure that you have everything that you need.
At Express Garage Door Services we believe that our customers should have all the information they need when making decisions about their doors so we’ve created this guide on choosing garage door weather stripping in Calgary as well as some common questions people ask us about these products. We hope you find it helpful!
Express Garage Doors provides a range of garage door services including installation, repair and maintenance. We are licensed, bonded and insured and offer 24/7 same-day response. Call us today for all your garage door needs.