While we make all efforts to protect and secure the main/front door, we often ignore the garage door, which is equally important and is most exposed to outside elements. Weatherproofing a garage door not only proves to be helpful in terms of security but also helps in reducing utility bills and keeping your space warm.
So, it turns out weatherproofing a garage door is not only a matter of winter season, but you should do it anyway. It’s never too late for improvement. Learn how to weatherproof a garage door by reading about it here and see how soon you can do it for your garage doors.
Ways to weatherproof your garage door
The importance of weatherproofing a garage door compels us to do it as soon as we can. In the end, it is an integral part of our home that should not be overlooked.
Before you start any of the processes, the first part should be cleaning the garage. That includes removing dirt, debris, and unnecessary material or equipment. Also, thoroughly clean floors, walls, and windows if you have any.
After the cleaning, a detailed inspection will let you know most of the things that you need to do before winterizing.
Garage door insulation
Just like you do insulation for walls, the same can be done with garage doors, and it proves to be an effective way of weatherproofing. It prevents heat loss from the garage during the winter and keeps it warm.
You can choose the type of insulation that matches your home décor. Typically, you have three options in this regard: reflective insulation panels, foam boards, and fiberglass. When insulating, make sure that it perfectly fits in with your garage door. If you are facing issues, consider installing a new insulated garage door.
Weatherstripping
Minor cracks, holes, or gaps all result in heat loss and fails weatherproofing. Moreover, regular use of garage doors also causes seals to damage or break. Therefore, to weatherproof a garage door, it is necessary that you check the sealing thoroughly and replace it if needed. Remove snow or any build-up that you see on weather-stripping.
Exterior paint
Though it may not be sufficient alone, it plays a major role when it comes to weatherproofing a garage door. The exterior paint adds an additional layer of protection that safeguards the door elements from outside elements and weather conditions. Exterior paint, along with other steps, can turn out to be a great way of ensuring the garage door is made weatherproof.
Inspect the moving parts
It’s not always visible but causes great hindrance when it comes to weatherproofing. There are several parts attached to a garage door, such as hinges, rollers, cables, and tracks. All of these parts play an important role and are often affected by harsh weather conditions.
Check your garage door if it is opening and closing without any problems, and also inspect all parts; if you see any broken or damaged pieces, repair or replace them immediately.
Go for automatic door openers
When in a hurry, we often left the doors open. By doing this, you leave your garage vulnerable to the outside elements. There comes automatic door openers to the rescue. Moreover, the latest door openers allow you to connect it with your smartphone so that you can control and monitor it from anywhere you want. It will also send you an alert if it fails to close the door by any means or when it needs maintenance. Auto close and remote monitoring are the two featured benefits that make automatic door openers worth checking.
Replace your garage door
Check out the working condition of your garage door, and if you find it damaged, broken, worn out, or unsatisfactory, consider replacing the door completely. Though it may cost you a few bucks, it’s worth the investment considering the outcome of it. A new insulated door will help keep the room warm and ultimately will reduce the utility bills. Additionally, it will keep your vehicles safe and protected from harsh weather conditions.
Call a professional
If you are confused about which way to adopt, you can call in a professional for help. Not only can the expert analyze your garage door, but they will also present you with a customized solution. However, you will have an idea of it by reading this article, and you will not be scammed in any way.
Conclusion
As a homeowner, it is important that you prepare for the winter beforehand and weatherproofing a garage door plays a vital role in this aspect. Moreover, it helps minimize utility bills, keeps your space warm, and protects your vehicles and other assets. From insulation, stripping to using automatic doors, different ways can be applied for weatherproofing. You can choose any of the ways that suit the best with your requirements and fall within your budget. Rest assured, weatherproofing a garage door is going to add value to your house. So, if you haven’t done it yet, what are you waiting for?