Is your garage door letting in drafts, dust, or even pests? Worn-out weather stripping is the likely culprit. Fortunately, replacing garage door weather stripping is a DIY project that can significantly improve your home's energy efficiency and comfort. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough on how to change weather stripping on your garage door, saving you money and improving your home's insulation.
Assessing Your Garage Door and Choosing the Right Weather Stripping
Before you begin, it's crucial to identify the type of weather stripping your garage door currently uses and determine what you need to replace it.
Identifying Your Existing Weather Stripping:
- Rubber: The most common type, offering good durability and weather resistance.
- Vinyl: A more budget-friendly option, though it may not last as long as rubber.
- Foam: Provides decent insulation but may not be as durable.
- Brush: Best for sealing gaps but can wear down quickly.
Take careful measurements of your garage door's bottom edge and side jambs to determine the length and width of the weather stripping you'll need. Consider purchasing a slightly longer length than necessary to allow for any mistakes during installation.
Selecting Replacement Weather Stripping:
When choosing your replacement weather stripping, consider:
- Material: Opt for a durable material like rubber for longevity.
- Thickness: Choose a thickness that effectively fills the gap between the door and the frame. Too thin and it won't seal properly; too thick and it might prevent the door from closing smoothly.
- Adhesive: Ensure the weather stripping has a strong adhesive backing for a secure fit.
Tools and Materials You'll Need
Before starting your weather stripping replacement, gather the necessary tools and materials:
- New weather stripping: Make sure you've purchased the correct type and length.
- Utility knife or scissors: For cutting the weather stripping to size.
- Measuring tape: To accurately measure the door and weather stripping.
- Putty knife or scraper: To remove old weather stripping.
- Cleaning supplies: (e.g., rags, all-purpose cleaner) for prepping the door.
- Safety glasses: To protect your eyes from debris.
- Gloves: To protect your hands from dirt and chemicals.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Garage Door Weather Stripping
Now, let's get into the process of replacing your garage door weather stripping:
1. Preparing the Garage Door:
- Disconnect the power: Disconnect the power to your garage door opener to prevent accidental operation during the repair.
- Clean the surface: Thoroughly clean the bottom edge and side jambs of the garage door to remove any dirt, debris, or old adhesive residue. Use a putty knife or scraper if necessary. Allow the area to dry completely before proceeding.
2. Removing Old Weather Stripping:
- Carefully peel away: If the old weather stripping is still somewhat pliable, try gently peeling it away from the garage door.
- Scrape away stubborn residue: Use a putty knife or scraper to remove any remaining adhesive. Be cautious not to scratch the door’s surface.
3. Measuring and Cutting New Weather Stripping:
- Measure accurately: Carefully measure the length required for each section of the garage door (bottom and sides). Add a small amount of extra length for a comfortable overlap or fit.
- Cut precisely: Use a utility knife or sharp scissors to cut the weather stripping to the measured length.
4. Applying New Weather Stripping:
- Peel and stick: Peel back the adhesive backing on the new weather stripping.
- Apply firmly and evenly: Press the weather stripping firmly onto the cleaned surface of the garage door, ensuring proper alignment and adhesion. Start at one end and work your way smoothly across, avoiding air bubbles.
5. Checking the Seal:
- Close the door: Once the weather stripping is installed, close the garage door and check the seal.
- Adjust as needed: If there are any gaps or inconsistencies, make adjustments as necessary.
6. Reconnect Power: Reconnect the power to your garage door opener after you've confirmed a proper seal.
Maintaining Your Garage Door's Weather Stripping
Regular maintenance can extend the life of your garage door weather stripping and ensure its continued effectiveness. Here's how to maintain your weather stripping:
- Regular Inspection: Inspect the weather stripping regularly for any signs of wear and tear, cracks, or damage. Address minor issues promptly before they worsen.
- Cleaning: Keep the weather stripping clean of dirt and debris. Periodic cleaning helps to maintain its performance and extend its lifespan.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to a well-sealed, energy-efficient garage! Remember, safety first, and if you're uncomfortable tackling this project yourself, call a professional garage door repair service.
