# Garage Door Weather Seals: Types, Signs of Wear, and Replacement Guide
A garage door weather seal is a crucial component of your garage door system. It protects your garage from the elements, pests, and debris, while also helping to maintain a more consistent temperature inside. This guide will cover the different types of garage door weather seals, how to spot signs of wear, and what to consider when it comes to replacement.
## Types of Garage Door Weather Seals
There are several types of weather seals for garage doors, each designed for a specific purpose and placement on the door.
### Bottom Seals
The most common type of weather seal is the bottom seal, which runs along the bottom edge of the garage door. There are a few variations of bottom seals:
* **T-Style:** This seal has a T-shaped channel that slides into a track on the bottom of the door. It’s a common type for many modern garage doors.
* **J-Style:** Similar to the T-style, the J-style seal has a J-shaped profile and is often used on wooden garage doors.
* **U-Shaped with Beaded Edge:** This type of seal creates a U-shape when installed, providing a flexible and effective barrier against uneven floors.
* **Bulb-Shaped:** This seal has a circular or oval shape that compresses to create a tight seal when the door is closed.
### Side and Top Seals
Side and top seals, also known as stop molding, are installed along the sides and top of the garage door frame. They create a seal against the face of the door, preventing drafts and moisture from entering around the perimeter.
### Threshold Seals
Threshold seals are adhered to the garage floor, creating a raised barrier that the garage door bottom seal presses against. This provides an extra layer of protection against water, wind-driven rain, and pests.
## Signs of Wear and Tear
Over time, your garage door weather seal will wear out and need to be replaced. Here are some common signs to look for:
* **Visible Cracks or Damage:** Inspect your weather seal for any visible cracks, tears, or crumbling. Exposure to the sun and elements can cause the material to become brittle and break down.
* **Drafts or Water Leaks:** If you notice drafts, puddles of water, or debris inside your garage near the door, it’s a good indication that your weather seal is no longer effective.
* **Light Shining Through:** With the garage door closed, look for any light shining through from the outside. This is a clear sign of gaps in your seal.
* **Increased Energy Bills:** A worn-out weather seal can lead to significant energy loss, resulting in higher heating and cooling bills.
## DIY vs. Professional Replacement
Replacing a garage door weather seal can be a DIY project for those with some basic home improvement skills. However, there are some instances where it’s best to call a professional.
### DIY Replacement
If you’re comfortable with DIY projects, replacing a bottom seal is a relatively straightforward task. You’ll need to purchase the correct type and size of seal for your door, remove the old seal, and slide the new one into place. Side and top seals are also manageable for most homeowners.
### Professional Replacement
For more complex situations, such as a warped or damaged door, or if you’re unsure about the correct type of seal to use, it’s best to consult a professional. A professional can ensure that the new seal is installed correctly and that your door is properly balanced and aligned. For any issues with your garage door, including spring replacement or opener service, it’s always best to call a professional for [garage door repair](/garage-door-repair/).
## Maintaining Your Garage Door Weather Seal
To extend the life of your garage door weather seal, it’s important to perform regular maintenance. Clean the seal periodically with a mild detergent and water to remove dirt and grime. You can also apply a silicone-based lubricant to keep the seal flexible and prevent it from drying out and cracking.
## Serving San Antonio and Surrounding Communities
Texas Pros Garage Doors is proud to serve San Antonio and the surrounding communities, including New Braunfels, Schertz, Boerne, Helotes, Cibolo, La Vernia, Selma, Leon Valley, Live Oak, Universal City, Alamo Heights, and Seguin. Whether you need a new garage door installation or service for your existing door, our team of experienced technicians is here to help.
If you’re in need of professional garage door service, don’t hesitate to call Texas Pros Garage Doors at (210) 960-8720 for reliable and affordable service. We offer a wide range of services, including [new garage door installation](/new-garage-door-installation/), [garage door spring replacement](/garage-door-spring-replacement/), and [garage door opener service](/garage-door-opener-service/). You can also check out our [FAQ](/faq/) for answers to common questions.
For service in specific areas, please visit our pages for [New Braunfels](/garage-door-service-new-braunfels/), [Schertz](/garage-door-service-schertz/), and [Boerne](/garage-door-service-boerne/).
Call Texas Pros Garage Doors at (210) 960-8720 for professional garage door service in San Antonio and surrounding areas.
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