Understanding Up and Over Garage Door Draught Excluders

Garage doors come in various styles, and one of the most popular types is the up and over garage door. These doors are known for their simplicity and efficiency, rolling up and over the door opening, thus providing a wide entrance that is convenient for vehicles. However, many homeowners often overlook a crucial aspect of these doors their ability to prevent draughts. This is where draught excluders come into play. In this article, we will explore the significance of draught excluders for up and over garage doors, their benefits, types, and installation processes.

What is a Draught Excluder?

A draught excluder is a device installed around door frames, windows, or in this case, garage doors, to prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping. It serves as a barrier against the external elements, helping to keep your garage, and indeed your home, insulated from temperature fluctuations and enhancing overall energy efficiency.

Importance of Draught Excluders for Up and Over Garage Doors

1. Energy Efficiency A significant amount of heat can be lost from your home through gaps in your garage door. By installing a draught excluder, you can minimize heat loss, ultimately leading to lower heating costs during the colder months. This is particularly beneficial for those who use their garages as workshops or hobby areas, where a controlled temperature is often desired.

2. Comfort A draughty garage can lead to uncomfortable conditions, especially in winter. An effective draught excluder will help maintain a more comfortable environment by keeping cold air out. This is particularly important for those who frequently access their garages.

3. Moisture Control Cold air can lead to condensation within the garage, promoting dampness and potential damage to tools and stored items. Draught excluders also help in keeping moisture at bay, thus protecting your belongings.

4. Pest Prevention Gaps in garage doors can serve as entry points for pests. Draught excluders create a tighter seal that can deter unwanted guests, providing an extra layer of protection against insects and rodents.

Types of Draught Excluders

There are several types of draught excluders suitable for up and over garage doors

- Foam Strips These are flexible and easy to install. Foam strips can be cut to size and stuck around the edges of the door frame. They are typically inexpensive and offer a good short-term solution.

- Rubber Seals More durable than foam strips, rubber seals provide a rigid barrier against draughts. They are particularly effective in preventing air infiltration over time, though they may require a bit more effort to install.

- Brush Strips These consist of a row of bristles attached to a backing. Brush strips are effective for sealing the gap at the bottom of the door, allowing for a snug fit as the door closes.

- Magnetic Seals These are ideal for metal doors and create a tight seal that prevents air from getting through. The magnets allow the door to adhere closely to the frame.

Installation of Draught Excluders

Installing draught excluders on your up and over garage door can be a straightforward process. Here are some general steps to follow

1. Measure the Gaps Identify any gaps around the door frame and measure them to ensure you purchase the correct size of draught excluders.

2. Choose Your Excluder Based on your needs and preferences, select the type of draught excluder that will work best for your garage door.

3. Prepare the Surface Clean the door frame area thoroughly where the draught excluder will be applied to ensure a good adhesive bond.

4. Apply the Draught Excluder Follow the manufacturer's instructions to attach the draught excluder properly. For adhesive products, take care to position them accurately, as mistakes can lead to reduced effectiveness.

5. Test the Seal Once installed, test the draught excluder by checking for any remaining gaps. You can do this by running your hand around the edges or using a candle to see if the flame flickers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, installing draught excluders on your up and over garage door is a wise investment that can enhance the comfort of your garage space, increase energy efficiency, and protect your belongings. Selecting the right type of excluder and installing it correctly will ensure that you enjoy all the benefits that come with reducing draughts. Whether you choose foam strips, rubber seals, or more advanced options like brush or magnetic seals, the key is to create a snug fit around your garage door. With these simple improvements, your garage can become a more pleasant and functional space throughout the year.