As the Inland Empire summer approaches, homeowners often ask: “What is the best way to seal the bottom of a garage door?” While many think a garage door bottom seal is naturally “airtight,” the truth is that your bottom seal (also called an astragal) is a wearing part that needs regular replacement to keep your home efficient.
We recently visited a home in Highland, CA to replace a brittle, flattened vinyl seal with a heavy-duty rubber seal. You can see the difference a precision-fit makes in the photos below!
A precision-fit EPDM rubber seal replacement we recently completed for a neighbor in Highland.
Why Material Matters: Vinyl vs. Rubber
One of the most common search questions is: “Is vinyl or rubber garage door bottom seal better?” In our local heat, rubber is the clear winner. Unlike cheap vinyl kits found at big-box stores, high-quality rubber:
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Stays flexible in extreme California temperatures.
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Provides a superior rodent-proof barrier against desert pests.
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Creates a weather-shielded fit even on uneven garage floors.
The Energy Impact of Garage Door Bottom Seal
According to Clopay, a proper seal is vital for reduced energy costs. By keeping the scorching air out and your AC in, your garage stays at a consistent temperature. This is especially important if you have a bedroom or living space above the garage, where heat transfer is most noticeable.
Complete Protection: It’s Not JUST The Garage Door Bottom Seal
While the bottom seal does the heavy lifting, remember that your door has weatherstripping on all four sides. We ensure the top and side jambs are also creating a complete thermal envelope to stop those summer drafts.
Your Local Energy Efficiency Partners
At Lloyd Copelan Garage Doors, we aren’t just technicians—we’re your neighbors. Since 1972, it has been our mission to help Inland Empire families stay comfortable while keeping their energy costs down. We take pride in finding the right solutions for every unique home, ensuring your garage is weather-shielded against the elements. Whether you’re in Highland, Redlands, Yucaipa, or beyond, we’re here to help you improve your home’s efficiency one seal at a time.
Don’t wait for the first heatwave—give us a call at (909) 389-9204 or book online today to schedule your weatherstripping refresh!
