When temperatures drop across Tennessee and Northern Alabama, one of the biggest culprits behind chilly garages and rising energy bills is something homeowners often overlook—worn-out weatherstripping on their garage doors. This simple rubber or vinyl seal does more than you might think—it keeps cold air, moisture, and pests out while helping your home maintain stable indoor temperatures. Let’s look at why weatherstripping matters, how to spot problems, and what you can do to fix them before winter fully sets in.

Why Garage Door Weatherstripping Matters

Your garage door covers a large surface area, and even a small gap along the bottom or sides can allow significant heat loss. Proper weatherstripping acts as a barrier between your garage and the outside elements. It prevents:

• Cold drafts from seeping into your home—especially important for attached garages.

• Moisture and rain from pooling inside the garage and damaging floors or stored items.

• Dust, insects, and rodents from sneaking inside through gaps.

• Unnecessary strain on your HVAC system, since cold air can creep in and force your heater to work harder.

Replacing or maintaining your weatherstripping is a small investment that pays off in comfort, energy efficiency, and even noise reduction.

Signs Your Weatherstripping Needs Replacement

Not sure whether your garage door’s seal is still doing its job? Here are a few telltale signs:

• Visible cracks or brittleness: Over time, rubber can dry out and lose flexibility.

• Light or air leaks: If you can see daylight under the door, air is getting in.

• Water or debris inside the garage: Evidence that the seal isn’t blocking moisture or dirt effectively.

• Uneven door alignment: Sometimes, a small adjustment to the tracks or opener balance can help the seal sit properly again.

• Increased energy bills: If your heating costs spike unexpectedly during cold months, poor insulation—including around your garage door—may be to blame.

How to Check Your Garage Door Seal

A quick inspection can reveal a lot:

1. Close the garage door fully and look for light shining through at the edges or bottom.

2. Run your hand along the perimeter on a cold day—you’ll feel drafts if air is entering.

3. Inspect the seal material for tears, flattening, or peeling away from the metal track.

4. Check the top and side seals—not just the bottom. Many homeowners overlook the edges where air often leaks in.

DIY vs. Professional Replacement

You can find weatherstripping kits at most hardware stores, and for handy homeowners, replacing bottom seals can be a straightforward job. However, some situations call for a professional touch:

• Custom-fit doors or irregular gaps require precise trimming and installation.

• Metal retainers or double-door systems can make DIY replacement tricky.

• Doors that aren’t closing evenly may need a technician to adjust springs or tracks before installing a new seal.

At State Line Garage Doors, we handle complete weatherstripping replacements as part of our seasonal maintenance services. Our technicians ensure your seal fits perfectly, eliminating gaps and helping your garage stay warmer all winter long.

The Hidden Benefits of Proper Weatherstripping

Beyond comfort and lower heating bills, there are other advantages to keeping your garage properly sealed:

• Improved energy efficiency for your whole home—especially if your garage shares walls with living spaces.

• Less condensation, which reduces rust on tools and vehicles.

• Quieter operation, as the seal cushions vibrations when the door closes.

• Longer lifespan for your door, opener, and mechanical components since they don’t have to fight cold or moisture exposure.

Don’t Wait for the Cold to Set In

Once winter arrives, small air leaks can quickly turn into big problems. A simple inspection and new seal can save you money, protect your belongings, and make your garage far more comfortable.

If you’re in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee or within our 60-mile service area, State Line Garage Doors can help prepare your garage for the cold season. From weatherstripping replacements to complete winter tune-ups, we’ll make sure your door performs efficiently and seals tight.

Contact us today to schedule your seasonal maintenance appointment and keep the cold where it belongs—outside!