Hey there, Denver neighbors! Let’s talk about something we’ve all experienced: that moment when you step into your garage in January and feel a gust of wind that could rival a Rockies game. Yep, your garage door’s weather stripping is probably waving the white flag. At Clearview Garage Doors, we’ve fixed more drafts than we can count, and today, we’re sharing our pro tips to help you tackle this project like a boss.
Why Bother With Weather Stripping?
Let’s cut to the chase—why does weather stripping matter? Spoiler: It’s not just about keeping leaves out. Properly installed weather stripping:
- Blocks icy drafts (because nobody wants to scrape frost inside their garage).
- Lowers energy bills by sealing gaps in insulated garage doors.
- Keeps pests, dust, and that mysterious “garage smell” from invading your home.
Here’s the kicker: Ignoring it can lead to bigger headaches (and costs) down the road. Think moisture damage, frozen door mechanisms, or even critters turning your holiday decorations into a Airbnb.
Choosing Your Weather Stripping: The Good, The Bad, and The Flimsy
Not all weather stripping is created equal. Here’s the lowdown:
| Type | Best For | Durability | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | Budget-friendly fixes | Moderate | $10–$20 |
| Rubber | Heavy-duty sealing | High | $20–$40 |
| Silicone | Extreme temps (hey, Denver winters!) | Very High | $30–$60 |
FYI: If you’ve got a commercial overhead door, spring for silicone—it handles wear and tear like a champ. And if you’re staring at your cart wondering, “Do I really need this?”—yes, yes you do.
Step-by-Step Installation: No PhD Required
Tools You’ll Need:
- A utility knife (or scissors, if you’re feeling brave).
- A flathead screwdriver.
- A tape measure (guessing won’t cut it).
- Your weather stripping of choice.
Let’s Do This:
- Remove the Old Stuff: Pry off the existing stripping with a screwdriver. If it crumbles in your hands, congrats—you’ve waited too long.
- Measure Twice, Cut Once: Run your tape along the door’s bottom edge. Add an extra inch on each side—better safe than sorry.
- Fit & Secure: Slide the new stripping into the channel, starting at one end. Press firmly until it snaps into place. Pro tip: If it fights back, a rubber mallet can gently persuade it.
Wait—What About the Sides?
If your door has vertical weather strips along the sides, repeat the process. Just don’t mix up the pieces unless you enjoy asymmetrical chaos.
When to Call Clearview Garage Doors (We Won’t Judge)
Look, we’re all for DIY pride. But if you’re staring at a garage door spring replacement or your door resembles a Tetris fail, it’s time to call the pros. At Clearview Garage Doors, we handle:
- Commercial garage door repair (because warehouses deserve love too).
- Garage door installation (new doors = instant curb appeal).
- Garage door spring services (those things are not DIY-friendly—trust us).
Not Sure? Ask yourself:
- “Is this taking longer than a Netflix binge?”
- “Did I just Google ‘how to fix a garage door catapult’?”
If yes, hit pause and call us. We’re local, we’re quick, and we’ve seen it all.
Keep It Fresh: Weather Stripping Maintenance 101
Once your new stripping is in place, make it last:
- Clean it yearly with soapy water (mud and grime are its enemies).
- Check for gaps seasonally—Denver’s weather swings are brutal.
- Replace every 3–5 years or when it starts looking like shredded cheese.
Bonus: Pair weather stripping with routine garage door maintenance (lubing hinges, testing sensors) to avoid surprise breakdowns.
FAQs: Your Burning Questions, Answered
1. How much does weather stripping cost?
DIY kits run $10–$60. Professional installation? Around $100–$200, depending on door size. IMO, if you’re also eyeing garage door spring repair, bundle the jobs to save time.
2. Can I reuse old weather stripping?
Unless you’re a fan of drafts… nope. Sun and cold warp it over time.
3. Will this help with noise?
A little! But for real soundproofing, ask us about insulated garage doors.
4. Why choose Clearview over other “garage door repair near me” options?
We’re Denver-born, we’ve got 15+ years of fixing doors in blizzards and heatwaves, and we’ll never upsell you on junk you don’t need. Plus, free estimates!
Wrapping Up: Stay Warm, Denver!
There you have it—weather stripping isn’t glamorous, but neither is shivering in your own garage. Whether you DIY or call Clearview Garage Doors for backup, sealing those gaps means a cozier home and lower bills. And hey, if you’re itching to upgrade to new garage doors or tackle that sagging spring, you know where to find us.
Final thought: Life’s too short for drafty garages. Let’s keep yours snug as a bug.
