Why Your Garage Door Weather Stripping Deserves More Love (Yes, Really)
Let’s be honest—weather stripping isn’t exactly the Beyoncé of garage door components. It doesn’t get the spotlight like a shiny new automatic garage door opener installation or the drama of a broken spring. But here’s the thing: if you’ve ever dealt with a garage that feels like a wind tunnel in winter or doubles as a sauna in summer, you know exactly why those humble strips of rubber or vinyl matter. At Overhead Door Pros in Edmonton, we’ve seen it all—from DIY disasters to “Wait, that’s not how you install weather stripping?” moments. Let’s break down why top and side weather stripping deserves your attention (and maybe a little respect).
Weather Stripping 101: What It Does & Why You Need It
Imagine your garage door as a giant sandwich. The weather stripping? That’s the mayo holding everything together—keeping the outside out and the inside in. Without it, you’re inviting drafts, pests, rainwater, and even dust to crash the party.
Here’s what proper weather stripping tackles:
- Energy bills: Gaps = cold air sneaking in = your heater working overtime. Cha-ching!
- Noisy garage door symphonies: Ever heard a metal door clang against the frame in a storm? Not exactly soothing.
- Pest control: Mice and insects are like, “Thanks for the open invite!” when seals fail.
- Longevity: Moisture creeping in? Say hello to rusted tracks or a garage door replacement sooner than planned.
FYI, if your garage doubles as a workspace or storage zone, good weather stripping is non-negotiable. And hey, if you’re in Sherwood Park or Edmonton and need a hand, we’re just a call away—no judgment if you’ve been using duct tape as a “temporary fix” for three years.
Top vs. Side Stripping: What’s the Difference?
Not all weather stripping is created equal. Let’s settle this once and for all:
Top Weather Stripping
- Location: Runs along the top of the garage door frame.
- Job: Blocks rain, snow, and leaves from tumbling in when the door’s closed.
- Weakness: Takes the brunt of UV rays and temperature swings. Replace it every 2–3 years (or sooner if it looks like overcooked bacon).
Side Weather Stripping
- Location: Vertical strips along the left and right sides of the door.
- Job: Seals gaps when the door closes, stopping drafts and critters.
- Weakness: Gets mashed by misaligned doors. If your garage door track alignment is off, side stripping gets chewed up fast.
Pro Tip: If your door sounds like a screeching pterodactyl (a.k.a. a noisy garage door), misaligned tracks or worn stripping might be the culprits. We’ve fixed plenty of these in Edmonton—sometimes in under an hour!
DIY vs. Pro Installation: When to Call the Cavalry
We get it—DIY projects are satisfying. But let’s be real: some tasks are like assembling IKEA furniture without the instructions. Here’s our take:
When DIY Works:
- You’re replacing small sections of stripping.
- Your tracks are perfectly aligned (lucky you!).
- You’ve got the right materials (vinyl for humid areas, rubber for cold climates).
When to Call Overhead Door Pros:
- The garage door track repair needs professional tools or expertise.
- You’re dealing with a broken spring or garage door cable repair (seriously, don’t risk it).
- The door’s balance is off, causing uneven wear on the stripping.
- You’d rather binge Netflix than spend Saturday wrestling with a tape measure.
Cost Note: Weather stripping itself is cheap ($20–$50). But if you need garage door torsion spring replacement or track realignment? Prices vary. We’ll always give you upfront estimates—no “surprise fees” here.
Common Weather Stripping Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
We’ve seen some… creative installations. Avoid these face-palm moments:
- Using the Wrong Material: Vinyl in -30°C Edmonton winters? It’ll crack faster than your phone screen.
- Ignoring Track Issues: Fix garage door track alignment before replacing stripping. Otherwise, you’re just wasting money.
- Over-Tightening Screws: Striping shouldn’t look like it’s in a chokehold. Snug, not strangling.
- Skipping Lubrication: A dab of silicone spray keeps stripping flexible. Think of it as yoga for your garage door.
Weather Stripping Maintenance: Keep It Simple
Treat your weather stripping like a houseplant—neglect it, and things get ugly.
Monthly:
- Wipe down strips with a damp cloth to remove grime.
- Check for cracks, tears, or gaps.
Seasonally:
- Test the door’s seal by closing it and shining a flashlight around the edges. If you see light, it’s time for repairs.
- Lubricate hinges and rollers to prevent strain on the stripping.
Yearly:
- Inspect tracks for garage door track alignment issues.
- Replace stripping if it’s brittle or flattened.
Life Hack: If your garage door spring adjustment feels off, don’t ignore it. A wobbly door wears out stripping faster.
When to Upgrade Your Entire Garage Door
Sometimes, weather stripping is just a Band-Aid. If your door is older than your kid’s Pokémon collection, consider a garage door replacement. Modern doors come with better insulation, quieter automatic garage door opener installations, and—bonus—stylish designs.
Signs You Need a New Door:
- Frequent garage door opener repairs.
- Rusted panels or shattered cables.
- Energy bills climbing faster than your caffeine addiction.
FAQs: Your Burning Questions, Answered
Q: How often should I replace weather stripping?
A: Every 2–5 years, depending on material and climate. Edmonton’s wild winters? Lean toward 2–3 years.
Q: Can I install weather stripping myself?
A: Sure—if the tracks are aligned and you’ve got basic tools. For garage door torsion spring replacement or commercial garage door repair? Call pros (like us!).
Q: Why is my new stripping already failing?
A: Likely due to track misalignment or a balance issue. Let us diagnose it—we’ll fix it faster than you can say “garage door contractor near me.”
Q: What’s the average cost for professional installation?
A: Weather stripping alone? $50–$150. If you need garage door track repair or adjustments, prices start around $200.
Wrapping Up: Don’t Underestimate the Little Things
Weather stripping might not be glamorous, but neither is shivering in your garage or hosting a family of squirrels. At Overhead Door Pros in Edmonton and Sherwood Park, we’re all about practical solutions—whether it’s a quick garage door spring adjustment or a full automatic garage door installation.
So next time you’re staring at that drafty garage, remember: a little weather stripping goes a long way. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed? We’re just a click or call away. Now go enjoy that cozy, pest-free garage—you’ve earned it. 😉
