If you’re experiencing dirt, debris, leaves, and insects in the garage, the issue is probably with the garage door. If you use the garage as a workshop then it will damage the things.

Over time it will cost a lot of money as it might cause structural damage so it is better to proactively check the issue and take the necessary steps to prevent further damage.

The garage door is very large and comes with a seal on the bottom to keep out the water and wind from entering your garage. Also, it protects the unwanted intruders entering your garage.

This will keep your garage clean and efficient resulting in saving money in the long term and give you peace of mind. Now the question is how will you seal the garage door?

In this guide, I will help you seal the garage door the right way avoid all unwanted intruders entering your garage, and increase the energy efficiency of your garage. Sealing a garage door is simpler and easy you can take it as a DIY project and do it.

Tools You’ll Need To Seal Garage Door

• Measuring tape- This will help you to measure accurately and ensure a precise fit.

• Cutting Tools such as a knife or hacksaw you’ll use this to cut the seal.

• Adhesive and Screws- These will secure the seal.

• Pliers- These will help in tightening during the installation process.

• Marking Tools such as pencil or marker for marking and cutting the seal in the position.

• Weatherstripping for a garage door will help seal the garage door from both sides.

How To Seal Garage Door: 5 DIY Ways

You can start sealing your garage door after getting all the tools at your place. Here are some of the effective ways to seal garage doors I’ll be starting from the bottom.

How To Seal Garage Door From Bottom 

Sealing the garage door from the bottom is essential to prevent water, air, and insects from entering the garage. There are two options for sealing the garage door bottom a garage door seal or a threshold seal. A garage door bottom seal is a long rubber vinyl strip that attaches to the bottom of the seal.

How will I know if it’s time to change the seal of the garage door?

Close the garage door turn off the lights in the garage and check if the light is passing underneath then your seal is worn out and it’s passing the light in the garage so it’s time to change the seal of the garage door.

• Start removing the old seal and carefully peel off the existing bottom seal from the bottom of the garage door. Use a plier to grip the seal and pull it away from the door.

• Clean the bottom with the cloth and inspect if the complete bottom seal is taken out to install the new seal.

• Measure and cut the new seal. Take accurate measurements of the width of your garage door to determine the length of the new seal needed. Cut the new seal with a sharp cutting tool like a knife or hacksaw.

• Apply a generous amount of adhesive on the entire length of the garage door bottom. Ensure that the adhesive is spread evenly to provide a strong and secure fix of the seal.

• Position the new seal and carefully align it with the bottom of the garage door ensuring it is centered. Press the seal firmly onto the door making sure it adheres with the adhesive.

• Secure the seal with nails for added stability use nails. Insert the nails a regular intervals along the length of the seal ensuring they penetrate through the seal and into the bottom of the garage door.

How To Seal Garage Door Threshold Seal

When it comes to sealing the bottom of your garage door, a threshold seal provides an effective solution. Unlike the bottom seal that attaches to the door itself a threshold seal is direct;y connected to the floor. By installing a garage door threshold seal you can create a consistent and secure seal for your garage.

• Measure and cut the new seal. Take accurate measurements of the width of your garage door to determine the length of the threshold seal needed. Cut the new seal with a sharp cutting tool like a knife or hacksaw.

• Clean the area before applying sealant and installing the threshold seal 

• Clean the area of any debris or obstruction. This will allow for proper adhesion and ensure a secure seal.

• Using a suitable sealant apply a thin and even layer along the marked location on the floor. The sealant will enhance the bond between the floor and the threshold seal.

Carefully position the threshold seal over the sealant aligning it with the marked location. Apply firm pressure to ensure the seal properly adheres to the floor.

How To Seal Garage Door On The Sides

To seal the sides of the garage door it’s best to use a door stop weatherstripping Measure the door jamb and cut your stripping to the proper length.

You can use adhesive or screws to install the stripping on both sides of the garage door.

If you have gaps on the door then don’t worry that can be filled.

If you have a panelled wooden garage door you can use a door weatherstripping to seal any existing gaps between the panels.

You can check out the detailed guide on sealing the sides of garage doors.

How To Seal Garage Door Top

The top of the garage door is a crucial area to seal to prevent drafts and water from entering the garage. There are two effective methods for sealing the top of the garage door: using garage door weatherstripping or a garage door top seal.

If you choose garage door weatherstripping the process is similar to applying weatherstripping to the sides of the door. First measure the length of the top edge of the garage door.

After measuring cut the weatherstripping to the appropriate size. Install the weatherstripping along the top edge of the door to create and secure a tight seal. Voila! You have successfully sealed the top of the garage door.

An alternative method is to install a garage door top seal that attaches to the door frame. This method not only provides a seal but also helps to prevent potential damage to the door.

Similarly cut the top seal, cut and install the top seal on the garage door to secure the top of the garage door and ensure complete seal along the top edge of the garage door.

How To Seal Garage Door From Inside

If you prefer to seal the garage door from the inside then the process is similar to sealing the garage door from the outside. There are several options available to ensure a tight seal and protect your garage from dirt, debris, and insects.

You need to use a garage door bottom seal or floor seal, top seal, and weatherstripping for both sides. 

On the other hand, you can use garage door insulation strips instead of weather strips for garage doors.

To install a garage door floor seal or bottom seal, follow these steps:

1. Measure the length of your garage door bottom.
2. Trim the seal to the appropriate size using cutting tools.
3. Place the seal along the garage door floor, aligning it with the bottom edge of the door.
4. Secure the seal in place using the adhesive provided or nails.

This method effectively prevents drafts, insects, and debris from entering your garage.

Top Seal and Weatherstripping for the Sides

In addition to the bottom seal, you can also use a top seal and weatherstripping to further enhance the insulation of your garage door from the inside.

For the sides of the door, apply weatherstripping to fill any gaps and create a tight seal. Measure the length of the side and cut the weatherstripping to fit. Use adhesive or screws to secure the weatherstripping in place.

Garage Door Insulation Strips

If you want to improve both insulation and soundproofing, consider using garage door insulation strips.

These strips are available in various materials, such as polystyrene foam board insulation, fiberglass batt insulation, or reflective insulation.

Install the insulation strips according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help minimize temperature fluctuations and improve overall energy efficiency in your garage.

Creating a tight seal on your garage door from the inside not only improves energy efficiency but also keeps the outdoor elements at bay and makes your garage soundproof eliminating the outside noise.

Why You Need To Seal Your Garage Door

Now that you know how to seal the garage door you have completely prevented the dirt or debris entering the garage. With this, you have saved a lot of money in the long term.

It’s better to be safe before to avoid the unexpected so if you notice signs of wear and tear or water, dirt, or leaves entering the garage. This way you will avoid leakage and structural damage.

By sealing the garage door you’ll lower the maintenance cost and repair cost. It’s better late than never if you have ignored the garage door it’s time to take it up as a DIY project.

All in all, with all the steps listed above you can easily tackle the garage door sealing. 

Final Thoughts On How To Seal Garage Door 

Sealing your garage door is a practical and cost-effective way to weatherproof your space. By following the steps outlined in this article you can easily seal your garage door and protect it from outside elements.

Whether you choose to tackle this as a DIY project or hire a professional, sealing a garage door will provide numerous benefits. 

It will improve energy efficiency reduce potential maintenance costs and give you peace of mind.

Don’t wait until the garage door turns into a problem seal the garage door today and enjoy the weatherproof space. Whether you take it as a DIY project or entrust the project to a professional sealing your garage door is a wise investment that will pay off in the long run.

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