Common Issues with Garage Door Seals

Garage doors serve as the primary barrier between your garage and the outside environment. Consequently, the integrity of their seals is paramount in preventing external elements from invading your space. However, despite the advances in seal technology, several common issues continue to plague homeowners. As the founder and managing director of GaraDry®, I have encountered and resolved a myriad of these problems over the past three decades. This article aims to elucidate these common issues and provide practical solutions.

Uneven Concrete Floors

One of the most frequent issues is the presence of an uneven concrete floor. An uneven floor can create gaps between the door and the ground, rendering traditional seals ineffective. These gaps allow water, dust, and pests to infiltrate your garage, compromising its cleanliness and security.

The optimal solution for this predicament is a garage door bottom seal for uneven floors. Designed to conform to the irregularities of the floor, these seals provide a robust barrier against external elements.

Weather Deterioration

Weather plays a significant role in the degradation of garage door seals. Exposure to harsh sunlight, rain, and snow can cause seals to crack, shrink, or become brittle. Over time, this deterioration can lead to ineffective sealing and increased vulnerability to external factors.

Regular inspection and timely replacement of weathered seals are essential in maintaining their efficacy. Opt for seals made from durable, weather-resistant materials to ensure longevity and performance.

Inadequate Installation

Incorrect installation is another prevalent issue that can compromise the functionality of garage door seals. Even the highest quality seal will fail if not installed correctly. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer's installation guidelines meticulously. For those who may find the installation process challenging, seeking the expertise of a professional garage door installer is highly recommended. Proper installation ensures that the seal fits snugly, providing maximum protection.

Compression and Wear

Garage door seals are subject to constant compression every time the door is closed. Over time, this compression can lead to wear and tear, diminishing the seal's effectiveness. Regular maintenance checks are vital in identifying signs of compression damage early. Replacing worn-out seals promptly can prevent further deterioration and maintain the integrity of your garage's barrier.

Poor Quality Materials

The market is flooded with garage door seals made from subpar materials that fail to withstand the test of time. Investing in high-quality seals is imperative for long-term performance. At GaraDry®, we pride ourselves on designing and stocking an extensive range of innovative weather seal products crafted from premium materials. Our products are engineered to offer superior durability and reliability, ensuring that your garage remains well-protected.

Improper Threshold Seals

Lastly, the use of an inappropriate door threshold seal can lead to inadequate sealing. A door threshold seal is essential in bridging the gap between the door and the floor, especially in cases where the floor is uneven. Selecting the correct threshold seal that matches your garage door's specifications is crucial for optimal performance. Customizable options are available to accommodate various floor conditions, ensuring a perfect fit.

In conclusion, addressing these common issues with garage door seals is pivotal in safeguarding your garage from external elements. Regular maintenance, proper installation, and the use of high-quality materials are the cornerstones of effective sealing. At GaraDry®, we are committed to providing top-tier products and exceptional customer service to ensure that your garage remains secure and protected. Should you encounter any seal-related issues, our team of experts is always on hand to offer guidance and solutions.

Choosing the Right Material for Your Garage Door Seal

Deciding on the right material for your garage door seal depends on your specific needs and installation circumstances. We offer both PVC and aluminum weather seals, each with its own set of advantages. With numerous options available, including rubber, selecting the correct one can be daunting.

This guide aims to simplify the process and help you make an informed decision.

Why Choose PVC Over Rubber?

GaraDry’s most popular garage door thresholds are crafted from PVC. These seal strips are ideal for residential use due to their ease of installation and versatility.

Any competent DIYer can install them with minimal tools and time, often in under an hour by following the provided instructions.

Our kits include everything you need for installation.

PVC seals offer a longer lifespan compared to rubber seals, which can become brittle or decay with prolonged water exposure and discolor under direct sunlight. PVC is durable, retains its shape, and is UV-stable, meaning it won’t fade or break over time. These seals are also flexible, providing a watertight seal even on uneven floors, and come in various sizes, ranging from ½” to 2” in height, to suit different needs.

Commercial Aluminum Threshold Seals vs. PVC Threshold Seals

When comparing the weatherproofing features of PVC and aluminum seals, both perform well. However, aluminum seals excel in industrial settings where heavy vehicles frequently cross the threshold. Aluminum seals can withstand weights up to 35,000 lbs, making them ideal for factories, warehouses, or any premises with heavy traffic. They come in interlocking sections that create a continuous, waterproof seal.

Although aluminum seals are primarily for industrial use, they can also be installed in residential garages, especially if you handle heavy equipment. While PVC seals can support up to 6,200 lbs, aluminum seals offer superior durability for more demanding applications.

Measuring Your Garage Door for Installation

Accurate measurements are crucial before purchasing any garage door seal. Here’s how to measure your garage door to select the best threshold seal:

Determine Seal Height: Measure the largest gap between the garage door and the floor at multiple points. This helps identify the minimum height required. Choose a seal height that covers the largest gap to ensure effective sealing. Consider the volume of water protection needed, opting for a taller seal if you experience heavy rain.

Measure Seal Length: Measure the width of your garage door from left to right. Select a threshold seal slightly longer than this width (about 1 ½” extra on each side) to notch around the door frame or tracks. You can trim the seal with a hacksaw, sharp knife, or scissors.

Installing Threshold Seals

The seal should fit behind the garage door, against the back, to ensure a tight seal when closed. In some cases, it may need to be positioned further back. Each kit includes foam blocks to stop water around the sides if installed further back. Installing the seal in front of the door is ineffective, as water can still seep in. For detailed installation instructions, refer to our resources, including YouTube guides and PDF instructions available on our website.

Benefits of Garage Door Seals

Installing a GaraDry® threshold seal prevents water from entering your garage, protecting against melting snow, standing water, and wind-driven rain. This helps preserve metal machinery, tools, gym equipment, and cardboard by preventing condensation and rust. The seal also blocks leaves, dust, sand, and small rodents, keeping your garage clean and pest-free. Additionally, the seal keeps drafts out, maintaining a warm garage and potentially lowering energy costs by sealing the gap between the door and floor.

Commercial Door Threshold (1" High) Vehicle Weight Guide

Our 1” high commercial aluminum threshold seal can support forklifts and trucks moving up to 3mph. It withstands over 35,000 lbs across a 10” plate in laboratory tests. For example, with 10” wide tires, the threshold seal can handle:

2 tires: 58,000 lbs.

4 tires: 116,000 lbs

Wider tires distribute the weight better, allowing the threshold to support more weight.

For further assistance or to explore our range of products, feel free to contact us or view our range of suitable products for your application.

 

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