How to Easily Install a U-Shaped Bottom Seal

by: Wilson Huang
August 2022
1 comment

Upgrading your garage door with a new bottom seal is a quick way to boost its durability, energy efficiency, and weather protection. Here’s a step-by-step guide on installing a U-Shaped Bottom Seal. Whether you’re replacing an old seal or adding a new one, this will help keep the elements out and your garage in top shape! If you currently have an outdated nail-on bottom seal, you will need to remove it in order to install the new aluminum track.

What Is a Garage Door Bottom Seal?

A garage door bottom seal creates a tight barrier at the base of your garage door, blocking out wind, rain, snow, and even pests. Crafted from flexible, durable PVC, these seals are built to withstand years of use. They help improve energy efficiency by maintaining a stable temperature inside, which may even help lower energy costs.

Not only does the seal add practical protection, but it also gives your garage door a clean, finished look.

Why Choose a U-Shaped Bottom Seal?

The U-Shaped Bottom Seal is designed for simplicity and durability. It’s easy to install, requires minimal maintenance, and can handle regular exposure to the elements. Once you have it in place, you’ll enjoy a more efficient, well-protected garage.

Tools You Will Need

Aluminum Track
Measuring Tape
Wire Brush
Box Cutter
Pliers
Soap And Water
Paper Towels/Wet Rag
Pair Of Vise Grips

Installation instructions for Garage Guardian U Bottom Seal XL and regular.

How to Install the U-Shaped Bottom Seal

1. Raise the Garage Door

Lift the garage door to a comfortable height for easy access. If your garage door is automatic, find a height that is suitable for you to remove the old bottom seal. If your door is not automatic, you can secure a pair of vise grips to the garage rail or place a large heavy object between the door and the ground (with assistance).

2. Remove the Old Seal

Use pliers or other tools to pull out the old weather seal. Dispose of the old seal according to your local waste guidelines. If the old seal is difficult to remove, using water and a bit of soap should loosen the seal from the track. (If the old seal is a nail-on version, you will need to use a hammer or ply bar to carefully remove the nails from the weather seal). After the nails and old seal have been removed, you must prepare your garage door for the next step of installation.

3. Preparing Garage Door

If you are removing an existing weather seal, you will need to remove the current hardware, clean the install area, and sand the bottom if necessary to make it as smooth as possible. Apply paint if needed, ensuring your garage door’s bottom is ready before installing the aluminum track.

To install the new track, you will first need to measure your garage door’s width with measuring tape. You will then place the aluminum track along the bottom of the door and trim any excess length with a utility knife for metal.

Fasten each nail through the aluminum retainer track holes onto the bottom of your garage door once it is in place. You will be needing a drill bit or a hammer for this step.

Now that your track is prepared, ensure that it is clean through these steps.

Brush Away Debris: Use a wirebrush and/or a wet rag/paper towel to remove dirt and debris.

Wash with Mild Detergent: For tough grime or grease, a mild detergent applied with water rinsing will help.

Inspect the Track: Check the track for any signs of damage or warping. If it looks worn out, you might have to consider replacing it. Reach out to our customer support if you need assistance finding replacement parts.

4. Install the New Bottom Seal

Now that the site is prepared for installation, ensure you have your weather seal placed neatly along the side of your garage so you can feed it through the track. Ensure that your seal is trimmed with your box cutter to the measurements recorded in step 3.

Lubricate Track With Soap And Water: Starting at one end, feed the Bottom Seal through the track. Use soap and water to lubricate the track for an easy installation.
Get A Helping Hand: Having an extra person to pull the seal along the track while you feed it can make this part even easier.
Trim the Excess: After pulling the seal through, trim any extra material with a box cutter for a clean, neat finish.

Need More Help?

Our Customer Service Team is here to assist you with any installation questions! For updates, news, and exclusive deals, don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok. Enjoy your upgraded, weather-tight garage door!

How to Install the Nail-On Bottom Seal

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1 comment

Jason
Dec 20, 2022 at 10:14
Hello. I just purchased some L shaped aluminum retainer for my father inlaws garage. I was wondering if the top of the “L” is on the exterior or interior of the door. Thanks

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How to Easily Install a U-Shaped Bottom Seal

What Is a Garage Door Bottom Seal?

Why Choose a U-Shaped Bottom Seal?

Tools You Will Need