Garage Door Weather Stripping Top And Sides

Garage Door Weather Stripping: Your Secret Weapon Against Drafts, Critters, and That Annoying Rattle

Let’s be real—nobody daydreams about garage door weather stripping. Until, that is, your garage starts doubling as a wind tunnel in January or a bug motel in July. Suddenly, those little rubber strips along your door’s edges become fascinating. If you’re nodding along (or shivering at the memory of last winter’s drafts), let’s chat about why weather stripping matters, how to nail it, and when to call in the cavalry—like our team at Kald Gart Garage Doors here in Calgary.

Why Bother With Weather Stripping? Spoiler: It’s Not Just for Snowflakes

Picture this: you’ve just parked your car, and a rogue gust of icy Alberta wind blasts through the gap under your garage door. Your coffee freezes mid-sip. Dramatic? Maybe. But weather stripping isn’t just about comfort—it’s your frontline defense against:

• Drafts (because nobody wants their garage to feel like a walk-in freezer)
• Pests (raccoons and mice are not paying rent)
• Noise (goodbye, clattering door that sounds like a dumpster orchestra)
• Energy bills (leaky seals = your heater working overtime)

And hey, if your garage doubles as a workshop or gym, proper sealing keeps your space usable year-round. Bonus: it even helps prevent garage door track alignment issues caused by moisture warping the metal. Win-win!

Weather Stripping 101: Types, Costs, and “Wait, Did I Do That Right?” Moments

Not all weather stripping is created equal. Here’s the lowdown on the most common types (and why some are worth the extra cost):

FYI: Silicone is the MVP here—it’s flexible, long-lasting, and doesn’t crack in Calgary’s -30°C deep freezes. But if you’re in a pinch, foam tape can buy you time (just don’t expect it to survive a hockey season).

“Can I DIY This?” (Spoiler: Yes… Mostly)

Installing weather stripping is usually a DIY job—if your door isn’t throwing curveballs like broken springs, misaligned tracks, or a noisy garage door that sounds like it’s auditioning for a horror movie. Here’s how to tackle it:

1. Clean the Edges: Scrub off dirt and old adhesive. Pro tip: use a degreaser if your door’s been leaking oil (looking at you, garage door torsion spring replacement candidates).
2. Measure Twice, Cut Once: Snip the stripping to fit the top and sides. Too tight? It’ll buckle. Too loose? Gaps galore.
3. Secure It: Use adhesive-backed strips or nails for a tighter hold.
4. Test the Seal: Close the door and check for light peeking through.

But—and here’s the kicker—if your door has garage door cable repair needs, track alignment issues, or a sagging panel, fix those first. Otherwise, you’re just putting lipstick on a… well, a broken garage door.

When to Call a Pro: Confessions of a Garage Door Contractor

Look, we get it. YouTube tutorials make everything look easy. But here’s when you should put down the toolbox and call Kald Gart Garage Doors (or your local garage door contractor near me):

• Your door weighs 200+ pounds and laughs at your DIY spirit.
• You spot broken springs or frayed cables. (Seriously, don’t touch these—they’re under insane tension.)
• The tracks look like they’ve been in a fistfight. (Garage door track repair isn’t a “wing it” project.)
• You’re upgrading to an automatic garage door installation and want everything integrated seamlessly.

True story: Last winter, a client in Okotoks tried replacing their weather stripping but forgot their garage door spring adjustment was overdue. The door slammed shut, ripped the new seal, and—yep—they ended up needing a full garage door replacement. Don’t be that person.

“How Much Will This Cost Me?” (Let’s Talk Numbers)

Weather stripping alone won’t break the bank. But if your door needs TLC, here’s what to expect in Calgary:

• Weather stripping replacement: $100–$300 (DIY kits start at $20).
• Garage door torsion spring replacement: $200–$400 (worth every penny if you like your fingers intact).
• Automatic garage door opener installation: $300–$600 (because manual doors are so 1995).
• Full garage door replacement: $1,000–$3,000+ (depends on materials and size).

IMO: Spending a little extra on quality seals or pro installation saves cash long-term. Think of it as paying upfront to avoid “Why is there a squirrel in my toolbox?” moments.

4 Burning Questions About Weather Stripping (Answered)

1. “How often should I replace weather stripping?”
   Every 5–10 years, depending on material. Check annually for cracks or gaps—especially after Calgary’s mood-swing winters.

2. “Can weather stripping fix a noisy garage door?”
   Sometimes! If the noise is from rattling, yes. If it’s a grinding sound? Probably a garage door track alignment or opener issue.

3. “DIY vs. professional installation?”
   DIY if it’s just seals. For anything involving springs, cables, or openers? Call Kald Gart. Safety first, heroics second.

4. “Will better weather stripping lower my energy bill?”
   Absolutely. A sealed garage reduces heat loss, especially if it’s attached to your home. Your wallet (and furnace) will thank you.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Your Garage Door Embarrass You

Weather stripping might not be glamorous, but neither is scraping ice off your car inside the garage. Whether you’re in Calgary, Strathmore, or Okotoks, a little maintenance goes a long way. And if you’re staring at a noisy garage door, broken spring, or seals that’ve seen better days? Kald Gart Garage Doors has your back. We’ll handle the dirty work so you can get back to… well, not thinking about garage doors.

Need help? Swing by our Calgary shop or give us a shout. Because life’s too short for drafty garages and squirrel roommates. 😉