A small gap in your garage door might not seem like a big deal, but it can be an open invitation for rain, debris, and pests like mice and insects. In some cases, a noticeable gap could even be a security risk.
At Oregon City Garage Door, we want to help you keep your garage safe and sound. Here’s our guide to finding and fixing those pesky garage door gaps.
What is a Garage Door Gap?
A garage door gap is any unwanted space along the sides, top, or bottom of your door when it’s closed. These gaps can let in drafts, raising your energy bills, and allow water to seep in, potentially damaging your garage’s foundation.
How to Find Garage Door Gaps
Some gaps are obvious, but smaller ones can be tricky to spot. Try these two simple methods:
- The Sunlight Test: Turn off the lights in your garage during the day. Look for any slivers of sunlight coming through around the edges of the door.
- The Hand Test: On a breezy day, run your hand along the inside perimeter of the garage door. You’ll be able to feel any drafts.
Common Causes of Garage Door Gaps
Before you can fix the problem, you need to know what’s causing it. Here are the most common culprits:
- Worn-Out Weatherstripping: The rubber or vinyl seal at the bottom of your garage door can wear down, crack, or get chewed on by pests over time.
- Misaligned Tracks: The metal tracks that guide your garage door can become bent or misaligned, causing the door to sit unevenly.
- Incorrect Limit Switch Settings: The limit switch on your garage door opener tells the door when to stop. If it’s not set correctly, the door might not be closing all the way.
- Shifting Foundation: Over time, the concrete floor of your garage can settle or shift, creating an uneven surface for the door to close on.
How to Seal Garage Door Gaps
Here are four common ways to fix gaps in your garage door:
1. Replace the Weatherstripping Seal
This is one of the most common and effective fixes. You can buy a garage door weatherstripping kit at your local hardware store. Be sure to measure the width of your door to get the right size.
2. Check the Tracks
Look at the vertical tracks on either side of your door. Do they look straight and parallel? If they seem bent or out of alignment, we strongly recommend calling a professional for this repair. Adjusting garage door tracks can be dangerous without the proper tools and experience.
3. Adjust the Limit Switch
If your door stops just short of the floor, you may need to adjust the “down” limit switch on your garage door opener. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your model, as this can vary. A small adjustment can often make a big difference.
4. Install a Garage Door Threshold
A threshold is a rubber strip that you glue to the garage floor directly under the door. It creates a raised barrier that seals the gap and helps keep water out.
A Note on Safety
Your garage door is the largest moving object in your home. While some of these fixes are DIY-friendly, others can be dangerous if not done correctly. If you’re ever unsure or uncomfortable with a repair, please call a professional.
Still Have Gaps? Contact Oregon City Garage Doors Today!
If you’ve tried these solutions and still have a gap, or if you’d rather leave it to the experts, we’re here to help. Our experienced technicians can quickly diagnose the problem and provide a lasting solution to keep your garage secure and weatherproof.
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