Why Weather Seals Matter on Long Island
Long Island homeowners deal with salt air from the shore, nor'easters, heavy summer thunderstorms, and winters that regularly dip below 20°F. A garage door without proper weather sealing is like leaving a window open all winter.
For homes with attached garages, deteriorated seals mean cold air, water, and pests get direct access to the interior of your home. Replacing all three seals is one of the most cost-effective home improvements you can make.
Types of Garage Door Weather Seals
Bottom Seal (Bottom Weatherstrip)
The bottom seal is the rubber or vinyl strip attached to the bottom edge of the garage door. When the door closes, this seal contacts the floor and creates a tight barrier against drafts, rain, and pests. Over time, the seal compresses, cracks, and loses its elasticity. Signs of failure include visible gaps between the door and floor, water pooling inside the garage, and rodent or insect entry.
Side Seals (Stop Molding)
Side seals run vertically along both sides of the garage door opening, sealing the gap between the door edge and the door frame. They prevent wind-driven rain from entering along the sides. They're often overlooked but critical on Long Island where coastal winds blow sideways during storms.
Top Seal
The top seal runs horizontally across the top of the door opening. It prevents drafts from entering above the door and is especially important for preventing snow and ice buildup at the top of the door frame in winter.
Weather Seal Replacement Cost
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Bottom seal only | $75 – $130 |
| Side seals (both sides) | $80 – $130 |
| Top seal | $50 – $100 |
| Complete weather seal package (all 3) | $150 – $250 |