A garage door is not just an entrance – it protects your home from the weather, dust and pests. But over time, its weatherstripping will wear out and you’ll get drafts, water leaks and higher energy bills. If you’re noticing cold air getting into your garage or higher heating costs, it’s time to replace.
In this blog we’ll walk you through the signs your garage door needs new weatherstripping. By recognizing these signs early you can avoid costly repairs and keep your garage warm year round. Let’s get started and find out if your garage door needs an upgrade!
What Is Garage Door Weatherstripping?
Garage door weatherstripping is the seal along the edges of your garage door that keeps out cold air, moisture, pests and debris. It’s an important part of keeping indoor temperatures, energy efficiency and preventing damage from harsh weather. Without proper weatherstripping your garage can be exposed to drafts, water leaks and dirt buildup and affect your comfort and utility bills.
Types of Garage Door Weatherstripping
There are several types of weatherstripping for garage doors, each designed to seal different areas:
- Bottom Seal – A rubber or vinyl strip attached to the bottom of the garage door to keep out water, dirt and pests.
- Threshold Seal – Installed on the garage floor and works in conjunction with the bottom seal for extra protection.
- Side and Top Seals – Foam or rubber strips along the door frame to stop air leaks and heat loss.
- Bulb and T-Type Seals – Flexible, heavy duty seals for a tight closure for better insulation.
Over time garage door weatherstripping can crack, shrink or wear out due to temperature changes, rain and heavy use. If you see gaps, brittleness or drafts it’s time to replace your weatherstripping.
Why Is Weatherstripping Important for Canadian Homes?
Canada has harsh winters, temperature fluctuations and heavy rainfall, therefore garage door weatherstripping is a must-have for every house. A sealed garage door means energy efficiency, protection from the elements and indoor comfort all year round.
- Keeps Your Garage Warm in Cold Winters: In Canada winters can get very cold, cold drafts can seep into your garage if the weatherstripping is worn out. This makes the space uncomfortably cold and puts a strain on your homes heating system leading to higher bills.
- Prevents Water Damage from Rain and Snow: With frequent snow, rain and ice storms, melted water can seep into your garage through gaps in old or damaged weatherstripping. Over time this can cause mold growth, rust on tools and equipment and even structural damage to your garage floor and walls.
- Improves Energy Efficiency and Lowers Utility Bills: Gaps in your garage door can let in hot air in summers and cold air in winters making it harder for your homes heating and cooling system to maintain a stable indoor temperature. Proper garage door weatherstripping insulates your garage, reduces energy loss and cuts down electricity cost.
- Blocks Dirt, Dust and Outdoor Debris: Wind and outdoor elements can bring in dust, leaves and debris making your garage harder to clean. Well maintained weatherstripping acts as a barrier, keeps your garage cleaner and more organized.
- Protects Against Pests and Rodents: Small gaps in your garage door can invite mice, rats, insects and other pests inside. This can lead to contaminated storage items, chewed wires and an unhealthy environment. A strong weather seal prevents pests from sneaking in, keeps your garage safe and hygienic.
- Extends the Life of Your Garage Door: Constant exposure to moisture, dust and temperature changes can wears down the mechanical parts of your garage door over time. By installing good quality weatherstripping you reduce the load on the system, helps it to function smoothly and last longer.
0 Signs Your Garage Door Needs New Weatherstripping
1. Visible Damage to Weatherstripping
Garage door weatherstripping wears out over time due to constant exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture and daily use. Damaged weatherstripping loses its ability to seal the garage and leads to air leaks, water infiltration and higher energy bills. Here are the clear signs of visible damage to look out for.
- Cracks, Tears or Peeling: One of the most obvious signs of worn out weatherstripping is cracks, rips or peeling edges. This happens due to age, UV exposure and extreme weather conditions, especially in Canada’s harsh winters and hot summers. If you see parts of the seal flaking or splitting, it’s no longer providing proper insulation and needs to be replaced.
- Compressed or Flattened Seals: Rubber and vinyl weatherstripping is designed to be flexible to create a tight seal when the garage door closes. However with frequent use, the seal gets flattened or compressed and loses its ability to block out air drafts, water and pests. If your seal looks worn down or no longer bounces back, it’s time to replace.
- Gaps Between the Door and the Ground: If you see gaps forming along the bottom or sides of your garage door, it’s a strong indication that the weatherstripping has shrunk or deteriorated. These gaps allow cold air, water and insects to enter and reduce your garage’s efficiency and comfort. A simple test is to check if you can see daylight through any part of the door—if you can, your weatherstripping isn’t sealing properly.
- Brittle or Hardened Material: Cold weather and aging can make rubber and vinyl weatherstripping become stiff and brittle. When this happens the seal loses its flexibility and is prone to break or detach from the door. If you touch your weatherstripping and it feels hard instead of soft and pliable, it’s time to replace.
- Mold or Water Stains: If your weatherstripping has lost its waterproofing properties, you may see mold, mildew or water stains on the seal or garage floor. This can lead to structural damage, bad odors and health risks. Check the edges of your garage door for any moisture or discoloration after rain or snow.
2. Presence of Drafts or Light: A Sign of Worn-Out Weatherstripping
A garage door should completely seal out drafts and light, so your garage remains insulated and protected. If you notice cold air coming in or daylight shining through it’s clear your garage door weatherstripping has failed. Ignore these issues and you’ll end up with higher energy bills, temperature fluctuations and exposure to outdoor elements.
- Feeling a Draft Inside the Garage: If you stand inside your garage and feel a breeze near the door it means air is leaking through the weatherstripping. This is especially bad during Canadian winters when cold drafts make your garage uncomfortable and harder to heat, putting extra stress on your home’s heating system.
- Seeing Daylight Around the Edges of the Door: A simple way to test your garage door seal is to turn off the lights in your garage during the day and see if sunlight is shining through any gaps. If you see light through the bottom, sides or top of the garage door it means your weatherstripping is worn out, shrunk or misaligned.
- Higher Energy Bills: When garage door weatherstripping is damaged it allows cold air in during winter and hot air in during summer. This makes your home’s HVAC system work harder, resulting in higher energy bills. If you’ve noticed a sudden spike in energy costs poor insulation from your garage door seal might be the culprit.
- Difficulty Maintaining Garage Temperature: If your garage is too cold in winter or too warm in summer your garage door weatherstripping is failing. This is especially important for attached garages as the temperature imbalance can also affect rooms nearby in your home.
- More Moisture and Pest Entry: Gaps in the garage door can let rainwater, snow, insects and rodents in. If you notice puddles of water after a storm or more pest activity weak weatherstripping could be the reason. Replacing it will keep your garage dry and pest free.
How to Fix This?
If you notice drafts or light coming through, it’s time to check and replace the weatherstripping. A tight garage door:\
✅ Saves energy
✅ Keeps pests and moisture out
✅ Improves overall home insulation
✅ Less wear on heating and cooling systems
Seal your garage door and you’ll be comfortable, save money and extend the life of your garage door.
3. Increased Energy Bills: How Worn-Out Weatherstripping Costs You More
If your garage door weatherstripping is old or damaged, it could be hiding your energy bills. A poorly sealed garage door lets cold air in during winter and hot air in during summer, making your home’s heating and cooling system work harder to maintain a stable indoor temperature. Over time this means higher electricity bills and energy waste.
- Poor Insulation Causes Winter Heat Loss: In Canadian winters, warm air from your home can escape through gaps in the garage door, making it harder to keep your garage and nearby rooms warm. As a result your furnace runs more often, using more energy and increasing your monthly heating bill.
- Summer Heat Infiltration Raises Cooling Costs: Just as cold air seeps in during winter, hot summer air can get into your garage through worn out weatherstripping. If your garage is attached to your house, the heat can spread into your living spaces, making your air conditioner work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. This means higher cooling bills during summer.
- HVAC System Overload and Wear: With uncontrolled air leaks, your HVAC system has to compensate for lost heat or cool air, making it run longer and more often. Over time this extra strain shortens the life of your heating and cooling systems, potentially leading to expensive repairs or replacements.
- Energy Waste Adds Up: Even small gaps in garage door weatherstripping can cause big energy loss. Studies show poor insulation can increase energy consumption by 10% to 20% per year, costing you hundreds of extra dollars on your utility bill.
How to Fix?
To avoid energy loss, check your garage door weatherstripping often. If you see visible damage, cracks or gaps, replace the seal and improve insulation and save on utility bills. A sealed garage door:\
✔️ Keeps indoor temperatures stable
✔️ Reduces HVAC load
✔️ Lowers your bill
✔️ Overall energy savings
Act now and save money, reduce energy waste and stay comfortable all year round
4. Water Infiltration: How Faulty Weatherstripping Leads to Leaks
One of the biggest signs your garage door weatherstripping needs replacing is water infiltration. A properly sealed garage door should keep rain, snow and moisture out but if the seal is damaged or worn out water can seep in causing structural damage, mold growth and safety hazards.
- Water Puddles or Damp Spots in Your Garage: If you see water puddles near the bottom of your garage door after rainfall or snowmelt it’s a big sign the weatherstripping is failing. Even small leaks can turn into bigger problems down the road like floor damage and rust on tools, equipment or vehicles.
- Mold and Mildew Growth: Too much moisture in your garage creates an environment for mold and mildew to grow. This can cause musty odors, wall discoloration and even health risks for you and your family. If you see dark spots or mold patches near the edges of the garage door it’s time to check your weatherstripping.
- Ice Formation in Winter: In Canadian winters water infiltration can lead to ice buildup inside the garage or along the door’s edges. This not only makes the garage slippery and unsafe but can also cause the garage door to freeze shut making it hard to open and close.
- Structural Damage to Floors and Walls: Prolonged exposure to water leaks can weaken the garage flooring, drywall and wooden structures causing cracks, rot and costly repairs. If your garage floor feels damp or shows water stains faulty weatherstripping may be the culprit.
- Rust and Corrosion on Garage Equipment: If water enters your garage consistently it can speed up the rusting process on garage door tracks, metal tools, vehicles and stored items. This not only shortens their lifespan but also leads to expensive replacements.
How to Stop Water Infiltration?
To stop water damage:
- Check your garage door weatherstripping for cracks, gaps or peeling.
- Replace worn out seals to keep it watertight.
- Make sure proper drainage around the garage to prevent water accumulation.
- Check the alignment of your garage door—an uneven door can leave gaps for water to seep through.
5. Pest Intrusions: How Damaged Weatherstripping Invites Unwanted Guests
A worn out garage door weatherstripping doesn’t just let in drafts and moisture—it also creates an easy entry point for pests, rodents, and insects. Small gaps in the seal allow mice, rats, cockroaches, spiders and even raccoons to sneak inside, causing property damage, health risks and infestations.
- Small Gaps Let Pests In: Rodents and insects can squeeze through the tiniest openings. If your garage door seal is cracked, torn or missing, pests can get in especially during Canadian winters when they are looking for warmth and shelter.
- Pests Can Damage Your Property: Once inside, pests can chew through wires, damage insulation and contaminate stored items. Mice and rats in particular gnaw on electrical wiring increasing the risk of short circuits and fire hazards.
- Health Risks from Rodents and Insects: Rodents and insects carry harmful bacteria, allergens and diseases that can affect your health. Their droppings and fur can trigger respiratory issues, skin irritations and allergic reactions so we must keep them out.
How to Keep Pests Out of Your Garage?
To prevent infestation check your garage door weatherstripping often and:
✅ Replace worn out or cracked weatherstripping to seal gaps.
✅ Store food in sealed containers to eliminate food sources.
✅ Keep your garage clean to reduce hiding spots.
✅ Check garage for small openings and seal entry points.
✅ Use pest repellents or traps extra.
How to Check and Replace Garage Door Weatherstripping
Over time, garage door weatherstripping can wear out due to constant use, temperature changes, and exposure to moisture. Regular inspection and timely replacement can help maintain a well-sealed garage, preventing drafts, water leaks, dust, and pests from entering.
1. How to Check Your Garage Door Weatherstripping
Before replacing weatherstripping, you need to determine whether it’s still effective. Here’s how to inspect it properly:
✅ Look for visible damage – Check for cracks, tears, or sections that are peeling off.
✅ Feel for air drafts – On a windy day, place your hand near the edges of the garage door to see if air is coming through.
✅ Shine a light through the door – If you notice gaps where light passes through, it’s time to replace the seal.
✅ Check for stiffness or brittleness – Old weatherstripping hardens over time, losing its flexibility.
✅ Inspect for moisture or pest entry – If you see water puddles or signs of insects, the seal is no longer effective.
2. How to Replace Garage Door Weatherstripping
If your garage door weatherstripping is damaged, follow these simple steps to replace it:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
You will need:
🔹 New weatherstripping (ensure it’s the correct type and size)
🔹 A utility knife or scissors for cutting the new seal
🔹 Screwdriver or pry bar to remove old weatherstripping
🔹 Adhesive or nails (if applicable)
🔹 Measuring tape for precise fitting
Step 2: Remove Old Weatherstripping
1️⃣ Open the garage door to make removal easier.
2️⃣ Carefully pull off the old weatherstripping using a screwdriver or pry bar.
3️⃣ Clean the surface where the new seal will be attached, removing dust, dirt, or adhesive residue.
Step 3: Measure and Cut the New Seal
1️⃣ Measure the length of the door frame and bottom seal accurately.
2️⃣ Cut the new weatherstripping to match these dimensions.
Step 4: Install the New Weatherstripping
1️⃣ For bottom seals, slide it into the track at the bottom of the garage door. If there’s no track, attach it using adhesive or screws.
2️⃣ For side and top seals, align the weatherstripping and press it firmly into place. Use nails, screws, or adhesive to secure it.
3️⃣ Ensure there are no gaps where air, water, or pests can get through.
Step 5: Test the Door
1️⃣ Close the garage door and check if the new seal sits flush against the ground and frame.
2️⃣ Look for gaps by shining a flashlight along the edges.
3️⃣ Test the door operation to ensure there’s no resistance or misalignment.
3. When Should You Replace Weatherstripping?
You should consider replacing garage door weatherstripping when you notice:
✔ Cracks, peeling, or brittleness in the material
✔ Drafts, light, or water leaks coming through the edges
✔ Increased energy bills due to poor insulation
✔ Pest infestations entering through small gaps
4. DIY vs. Professional Replacement
🔹 DIY Replacement: If you have basic tools and handyman skills, you can replace weatherstripping yourself and save money.
🔹 Professional Replacement: If your garage door has alignment issues, worn-out tracks, or complex sealing problems, hiring a garage door technician is the best option for long-lasting results.
Conclusion
Your garage door weatherstripping needs to be in good condition to protect your home from drafts, moisture, pests and energy loss. Damaged or worn out seals can mean higher bills, trouble opening the garage door and water intrusion. By checking and replacing the garage door seal regularly you can have a well insulated, secure and smooth operating garage door. If you see gaps, cracks or air leaks its time to install new weatherstripping to get the protection back. Whether you choose DIY or professional installation you’ll get a tighter seal and a more efficient and longer lasting garage door.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How often should I replace my garage door weatherstripping?
It’s best to replace garage door weatherstripping every 2 to 3 years, depending on weather conditions and wear. If you notice cracks, gaps, or drafts, replace it sooner to maintain proper insulation and protection.
2. How do I know if my garage door weatherstripping is damaged?
Signs of damaged weatherstripping include visible cracks, air drafts, difficulty closing the door, increased energy bills, and water or pest entry. Inspect it regularly by looking for light coming through the edges.
3. Can I replace garage door weatherstripping myself?
Yes! DIY replacement is possible if you have basic tools like a utility knife, measuring tape, and adhesive. However, if your garage door has alignment issues or requires a more complex seal, consider hiring a professional.
4. What type of weatherstripping is best for garage doors?
The best options include rubber bottom seals, vinyl side seals, and foam tape for improved insulation. T-type and U-type bottom seals are popular choices for effective sealing against drafts and moisture.
5. How much does it cost to replace garage door weatherstripping?
The cost depends on the type of weatherstripping and labor charges. DIY replacement can cost between $20-$50, while professional installation may range from $100-$250. Investing in quality seals helps prevent costly energy loss and repairs.
