How to Install Garage Door Weather Stripping Like a Pro in 5 Easy Steps

When cold drafts or pesky critters start sneaking into your garage, the culprit is often bad weatherstripping. Whether you’re trying to improve energy efficiency or just tired of seeing daylight through the sides or bottom of your garage door, replacing the garage door weather stripping can make a huge difference.

If you’re in League City, Texas, and wondering “how do I install the door seal on my garage?”, you’re in the right place. We’ll walk you through how to install garage door weather stripping using plain language and step-by-step guidance to help you get the job done right.

Why Garage Door Weather Stripping Matters To Your Garage’s Longevity

Weatherstripping forms a tight seal around your garage door, which helps block air leaks, keeps out water, and prevents dirt, debris, and pests from entering. It also reduces energy loss and keeps your home more comfortable year-round.

A proper garage door weather seal is all about keeping the outside… well, outside.

Common reasons to install garage door weather stripping:

• Reduce drafts and improve home comfort
• Prevent water buildup during storms
• Keep out insects and other pests
• Lower your energy bills
• Improve overall garage door maintenance

Having even the best overhead garage door is only part of home improvement. Without a door seal, your garage won’t be fully protected.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Before beginning the installation, gather the right materials. This ensures a smooth process from start to finish.

Basic tools and materials:

• Utility knife
• Hammer and nail puller (or pliers, vice grip)
• Caulk and caulk gun
• Adhesive (if using threshold seal)
• Screws and screwdrivers (or drill)
• New weather stripping or garage door bottom seal
• Ruler or tape measure

Depending on the type of seal, you may also need:

• Natural rubber weatherstripping for a more durable, tight seal
• Vinyl or PVC weather strip for affordability with solid protection
• Replacement seal or gasket for the garage door bottom
• Threshold seal made of heavy-duty rubber

Make sure the length fits the width of your garage door before installing.

Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Install Garage Door Weather Stripping

Step 1: Remove the Old Seal

Start by examining your current weatherstripping. If it’s brittle, torn, or cracked, it’s time for a new seal.

• Open the door, and pull the nails or screws out of the old seal.
• If it’s stuck with adhesive or caulk, gently pry it free using a utility knife or plier.
• Clean the bottom edge of the door and door frame thoroughly to get rid of old residue.

Tip: Inspect the retainer (the slot that holds the seal) for rust or damage. A damaged retainer or bottom bracket may also need replacing.

Step 2: Measure and Cut the New Seal

Start by measuring the top, sides, and bottom of the door to ensure a perfect fit. Taking an accurate length across the bottom of the door is especially important.

Once you’ve measured:

• Cut your new seal, vinyl molding, or PVC weather strip using scissors or a utility knife.
• You may want to let the new gasket flatten out in the sun for easier handling.

If you’re replacing the garage door bottom seal, double-check the retainer width and seal type before purchasing.

Step 3: Install the Side and Top Seals

Attach weatherstripping to the top and side of the door frame with care.

• Close the garage door fully. Attach molding just enough to press slightly against the closed door, which helps create a tight seal.
• Use nails or screws to fasten the weatherstripping along the side of the door and across the top.
• Begin at the top post and work your way along the sides to the bottom.

Pro tip: Installing the door stop molding with integrated weather strip helps reduce air leaks at the top and sides.

Step 4: Install the Bottom Door Seal

When tackling the bottom of the garage door, use the proper garage door bottom seal for your model.

• Slide the rubber seal into the retainer channel. Use PVC lubricant if it resists.
• Align it evenly across the door’s length.
• Once inserted, screw or fasten it securely into place using recommended holes.
• Inspect it when the door is closed to make sure there’s a consistent seal.

Want extra protection from water? Add a garage door threshold seal. It’s glued directly to the garage floor and blocks water from seeping under the door.

Step 5: Test and Adjust for a Tight Seal

After you install the new weather stripping, close the garage door to check if it seals all the way around.

• Open and close the door a few times to ensure nothing binds.
• Check along the top and bottom for gaps. Adjust the molding or bottom door seal as needed.
• Run your hand along the door’s edges to feel for any air leaks.

Use extra adhesive or caulk at the corners if needed to reinforce a tight seal.

When to Consider a Local Garage Door Pro

If your garage door opener starts straining, or the door won’t open and close smoothly after the install, hardware adjustments might be needed. Older or damaged brackets and retainers could also impact the seal.

In those cases, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. At Level Up Garage Door, we offer trusted professional garage door repair services right here in League City, Texas.

Garage Door Seal FAQs