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Garage doors are typically one of the largest openings into your home, and they can let in a significant amount of cold air and drive up heating costs during winter. However, with proper garage door maintenance and insulation, you can ensure that your doors are winterized before the temperature drops.

3 Tips for Preparing Your Garage Doors for Winter

1. Check the Weatherstripping

This vinyl component protects the door's integrity and creates a seal that prevents outside air from blowing into your garage. Close the door and check if light or air is coming through the spaces between the door and side jambs. Look for any signs of damage, and if you notice tears, cracks, or breaks, replace your weatherstripping before winter begins.

2. Examine the Bottom or Threshold Seal

Tomah-garage-door-maintenanceAlso called a door sweep, a bottom seal is attached to the base of the garage door to eliminate the gap that can let ice or cold air in during winter. A threshold, on the other hand, serves the same function but is attached to the floor itself. As part of garage door maintenance, check the integrity of your bottom or threshold seal. Close the garage door, and if you can see daylight through the seal, it's time to replace them.

3. Ensure Proper Insulation

During winter, the surface of your garage door may get extremely cold, almost mirroring outside temperatures. Insulating your garage door helps ensure that the cold doesn't enter your home and cause your heating system to work overtime. Consider buying and installing panel foam insulation kits designed for metal garage doors. When shopping for insulation, look for its R-value or the ability to resist cold or heat. Most professionals recommend a minimum of R-11 for insulated and heated garages. 


Whenever Tomah, WI, residents need reliable garage door maintenance, they turn to Mid-State Door & Opener. With over 25 years of experience in the garage opener business, this business' team of experts is well-versed in garage door sales, repair, and replacement, and they also offer emergency garage door service. Call (608) 372-9681 today or visit their website to learn more about their products and services.

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