With the cold winter months just around the corner, it’s essential to make sure your garage door’s weather stripping is in top condition. Well-maintained weather stripping is key to keeping your garage – and by extension, your whole home – energy-efficient and protected from harsh winter conditions. At Lancaster Door Service, we’re here to share some expert tips on assessing the state of your weather stripping and knowing when it’s time for a replacement.

Getting Your Garage Winter-Ready

As winter approaches, now is an ideal time to inspect your garage door, check the weather stripping, and prepare your home for the changing seasons. Properly maintained weather stripping helps keep your garage and home energy-efficient and shields them from the elements.

At Lancaster Door Service, we understand how vital quality garage door weather stripping is. As the trusted garage door professionals serving Lancaster, PA, and surrounding areas, we’re here to guide you on checking your weather stripping and knowing when a replacement is due.

Understanding Garage Door Weather Stripping

Weather stripping is a vinyl or rubber seal lining the sides and bottom of your garage door. Its purpose is to create an airtight barrier, trapping warmth in during the winter and blocking hot air out in the summer. This barrier helps maintain your garage and home’s temperature, boosts energy efficiency, and lowers utility bills. Over time, weather stripping can crack, dry out, or detach, reducing its effectiveness. That’s why regular inspections are essential, along with timely replacements when needed.

Inspecting Your Garage Door Weather Stripping

Checking your weather stripping is a straightforward task you can do a few times a year. Run your hands along the door’s sides and bottom to feel for visible cracks, splits, or gaps in the seal. Check its flexibility – if it feels brittle or has lost its stretch, it’s likely time to replace it. With the garage door closed, use a flashlight to see if any light shines through from the sides or bottom, and on a windy day, feel along the edges for drafts. If you detect these issues, it’s a clear indication that your weather stripping isn’t doing its job and should be replaced.

How Often to Replace Garage Door Weather Stripping

As a general guideline, most experts recommend replacing your garage door’s weather stripping every 3-5 years, or sooner if you notice significant wear. Exposure to extreme temperatures and the elements can cause rubber or vinyl to degrade over time.

Let Us Help You Winter-Proof Your Garage

At Lancaster Door Service, we’re happy to inspect your weather stripping and recommend the best replacement products and installation services. Our team of skilled technicians can ensure a proper, durable seal around your garage door.

Don’t let winter winds creep into your Lancaster home this season. Reach out to us today to schedule a weather-stripping inspection and get your garage ready for winter. With our prompt, dependable service, we’ll help keep your home cozy and energy-efficient all season long.