How To Install Garage Door Weatherstripping (DIY Guide)
Need to replace your old garage door weatherstripping? You’re in the right place! Today, I’m walking you through the simple steps to swap out that worn-out seal and keep pests, dust, and cold air where they belong—outside.
Last year, I shared a post all about garage door maintenance, and it struck a chord with so many of you. In that guide, I covered essential tips to keep your garage door operation running smoothly, including one crucial step – checking the garage door weather seal along the bottom of a garage door.
After publishing, several of you reached out and asked for a full tutorial dedicated to replacing garage door weatherstripping—and here we are!
Our Garage Door Weather Seal Story
Replacing the old weather seal on our garage door was actually one of the very first DIY projects we did in this home almost six years ago. Our inspector noticed that ours was in rough shape and told us what to do to replace it. We were amazed by how simple it was and as new homeowners, we felt very proud of ourselves!
Over time, though, wear and tear took its toll. How did we know it was time for a replacement?
When the garage door was in the closed position, we could see gaps of light shining through from the bottom, near the garage floor. That was a clear indicator that the current seal wasn’t doing its job anymore. Another sign was the visible wear and tear on the weather strip itself.
Why Install Weatherstripping?
Installing garage door weatherstripping is one of the easiest ways to boost your garage’s energy efficiency, especially if your garage is connected to your home. By sealing up gaps, you can prevent hot or cold air from escaping, which helps regulate the temperature. Our garage is separate from our home, but we still don’t want it getting too cold, wet, or drafty in there.
But it’s not just about energy efficiency. Weatherstripping also acts as a protective barrier against pests, like insects and rodents, keeping them from sneaking inside. Plus, it helps cut down on the amount of dust and debris that can blow into your garage, leaving the space cleaner and more manageable.
Supplies
| Difficulty: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ of 5 | Time: 1 hour |
| Supplies needed: New Weatherstripping Work Gloves Garage Door Lube Rags | Tools needed: Electric Scissors or Utility Knife Tape Measure |
Make sure to measure your garage door carefully before purchasing weatherstripping. It comes in many sizes and lengths, so double-check your measurements. It’s always better to buy a slightly longer piece that can be trimmed to the exact size of your door.
Step-by-Step Guide For Installing Garage Door Weatherstripping
1. Remove the Bottom Seal
First, wear work gloves and put your door in an open position where you can easily reach it.
Most weatherstripping is installed using a metal track on the bottom panel of the garage door. It should slide right out, but sometimes, it takes a little effort. Be patient and gently pull the old seal free.
My existing seal was a tad stubborn, but after lots of tugging, it came on out.
2. Clean The Channel
Once the old seal is removed, clean the bottom of the garage door and the channel thoroughly, with a rag. Dirt and debris can prevent the new weatherstripping from sliding into place smoothly.
Ours was pretty filthy, so it felt good to give it a clean.
3. Install The New Weatherstripping
Again, I assumed I would easily slide the new weather seal right into the grooves and call it a day. Mine was a bit trickier than that.
I found that I would guide it through the channels on the end and then have to go and pull the new strip through. It was back and forth like this many times until I slid the new weatherstripping all the way across. I suggest working in sections, pulling and adjusting as you go.
If you’re having trouble gliding the weatherstripping through, grab some garage door lube and spray the channel and tracks on the new seal. The lubricant will help it glide through a bit easier.
4. Trim The Excess Seal
I ended up leaving about 1/2 inch of weatherstripping on each side. To cut it, I used my favorite electric scissors. These things are the best because they can cut through just about anything with minimal effort! You could also opt for a sharp utility knife.
5. Test The Door
Finally, make sure your door closes and that the gaps are all sealed on the bottom of the door. You want to have a tight seal without any light leaks on the bottom.
How Often Should You Replace Weatherstripping?
On average, garage door weatherstripping should be replaced every 2 to 3 years, but this timeline can vary depending on your climate and how often you use your garage door opener.
If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions—like heavy rain, snow, or intense sun exposure (Hello Chicago!)—you might need to replace it more frequently.
Regular inspections are key. Take a few minutes at least once a year to check for cracks, warping, or any signs of damage. Catching issues early can help you avoid bigger problems down the line and ensure your weatherstripping lasts as long as possible.
Final Thoughts
Replacing garage door weatherstripping is one of those DIY projects that’s easier than it looks and so worth the effort. In just about an hour, you can seal up those pesky gaps, keep the cold air out, and save yourself some money on energy bills.
Plus, there’s something so satisfying about a quick fix that makes such a big difference. So grab your tools, measure twice, and get to it!
