A common garage door issue faced by homeowners is determining when and how to install garage door weather stripping. This small, yet important component of a door lines its frame and provides protection against the elements entering the garage’s interior. Weather stripping also provides improved insulation, enhanced curb appeal, and helps extend the life of a garage door’s internal moving parts (opener, rollers, and springs).
In the event your garage door’s weather stripping is damaged or you simply want to change it, the following post outlines how you can replace it.
How to Install Garage Door Weather Stripping in Four Steps
Tools You’ll Need
- Hammer
- Cordless driver (if using screws to mount the weather stripping)
- Pry bar
- Galvanized nails or screws
- Vinyl weather stripping in a color that matches your garage
- Saw (hack or power)
- Tape measure
Step #1: Remove the Existing Weather Stripping
- Using your pry bar and hammer, remove the existing weather stripping from around the garage door’s exterior frame.
- Make sure to get all nails or screws out and inspect for any damage to the door’s frame.
- Clear any residual debris.
Step #2: Measure the Garage Door’s Perimeter and Cut Strips Accordingly
- Using a tape measure, determine how long your strips will need to be.
- Cut the vinyl pieces into the properly sized sections.
Step #3: Install the New Weather Stripping to the Top Section
- Place the new weather stripping at the top section of your garage door first.
- Space the nails approximately 8 to 18 inches apart.
Step #4: Install Weather Stripping on the Garage Frame’s Sides
- Following the same approach as in Step #3, install your new strips to the sides.
- Ensure these pieces overlap with the top section to provide a close seal.
- Cut off any excess pieces for a more polished look.
Step #5: Caulk
- This will apply the finishing touches.
