The Different Models and Prices for PVC Windows

​​Need to replace your windows but find yourself lost amongst all the existing window models? The awning window may just be the right fit. Whether it be for your bathroom, basement, or even bedroom, we’re going to delve into why it’s a worthwhile option. Definition and Characteristics of an Awning Window Source: Canva The term “awning window” can connote two different things: you’re either picturing the awning window, or a straight-up awning (or canopy if its roof is glazed) that shields a window or door from rainfall. However, as it pertains to us, we’re solely going to discuss the former: windows. In carpentry, one can account for 8 types of windows: Cross window (2 frames with inward or outward openings); Pivot window (pivots horizontally or vertically on its axis); Canadian window (2 out of 3 frames open awning-like); Sliding (horizontal or vertical sliding pane); Fixed (remains closed); Awning (opens upwards, hinged at the top); Hung window (single or double); Casement (side-hung). Casement and awning windows are grouped amongst those operating with a crank or lever: The casement window has a multipoint locking mechanism for which the casement window opens outwardly with the help of a crank while rotating on a vertical axis. The awning window is distinguished from the latter since it opens on a horizontal axis. Crank awning window Let’s take a more detailed look at the window crank or lever. As the awning window crank or lever is rotated, it pushes or pulls back a scissor arm, which is connected to the window frame (the bottom frame) by a friction hinge. Once the window is opened, the mechanism locks into place with the help of a latch. The crank opening and closing mechanism is safe, but also very simple to remove and replace. In fact, it’s just screwed into the window frame and is accessible with a screwdriver. The awning-type crank window is also advantageous on account of the very nature of its opening system. In fact, it allows for the following: To be opened even when raining; Used as a transom; Ensures airflow from below; A multipoint locking mechanism. Its seal renders it impervious to water seepage and significantly contributes to your home's thermal insulation. Are you looking for experts for your doors and windows project? Fill in our form to be connected with top-rated contractors! Awning windows allow ample natural light Source: Canva What makes the awning window the ideal choice is its size. While it’s not as watertight as the casement window, it can measure up to 48 inches wide, compared to the 32 inches of its rival. Therefore, the amount of natural light said window allows into a room is bar-none. We’ll delve into this matter in further detail in our basement window section below. Double-glazed window In Canada—on the east coast primarily—single or double glazing doesn’t come into question. Double glazing is without a doubt the preferred choice unless specific rules apply to your dwelling in terms of architectural, landscaping, or historical value. Besides, if you want to add a certain time-honoured appeal to your awning windows, note that you can do so by installing spindles for a muntin-like effect that was seen on antique wooden windows. That way, you'll get to enjoy the aesthetic appeal of yesteryears, while also benefiting from the modern efficiency of new-build. Awning windows are very well-suited to double glazing, which limits 40% of the heat loss from inside, compared to single glazing. If you also want to limit the amount of warm air that seeps into your home during the summertime, you can opt for high-performance windows. Given the thin metal oxide coating on one of the interior-facing panes, the glass can reflect infrared rays. As for the materials that make up the frame, options aren’t lacking: Aluminum; Hybrid; Wood; PVC. PVC window vs. heat Source: Canva Whether it’s wood, aluminum, or PVC, materials tend to shift with temperature fluctuations. PVC isn’t any different. If you’ve read that PVC window frames may expand under intense heat, well this is true. However, it isn’t solely the material that makes up the window frame that’s shifting, it’s also its hardware. And, if today PVC is one of the most used products when it comes to window frames, it’s very much because it’s a highly efficient material. PVC isn’t a one-and-done material. In fact, based on the specific characteristics of the finished product, it’ll be designed with either more or fewer lubricants, flame retardants, stabilizers, and other polymers. Therefore, PVC window frames aren’t solely designed to withstand bad weather, but also to reflect the sun’s rays. Its reflectivity is rendered possible due to its stabilizer and pigment content. These prevent the frame from reaching very high temperatures, or from doing so as often or for very little time. Albeit PVC frames do expand with heat, the added heat-resistant polymers in the PVC window frame formulation very much limit this from occurring. If you look around your neighbourhood at the different windows, chances are that the majority of them are PVC-framed. Nevertheless, have you ever had a skilled tradesperson come by to realign your windows? What are the different types and styles? PVC awning windows are available in a wide range of colours and can be custom-made as far as to give them a hung-like window aspect. As such, you can choose your window based on the following: Your façade; Your home’s style; Your natural light needs. The last point brings us back to our next talking point: the versatility of the awning window. Indeed, the latter can be added to fixed windows, or be installed above another window, much like a transom. Basement awning windows: Useful or not? Source: Canva Although we’ve already discussed luminosity, specifically in terms of basements, let’s backtrack a little. Yes, the awning window is very useful in basements, and for two very apparent reasons: Allows for plenty of natural light; Can be opened when raining. Basements are commonly known for their lack of natural lighting and their build-up of humidity, thus rendering them moisture-prone areas. As a result, it’s essential to install windows that allow for plenty of natural light and proper airflow. Since it can swing open even when it's raining, such a window is ideal for coping with record-breaking weather, such as Montréal's 13 straight days of rain in 2019. Just think about the humidity level in your basement if you can't air it out for 15 days…

Whether you are looking to enhance your home’s energy efficiency, overall exterior appeal, or simply planning a DIY project, windows and skylights are elements that must be considered. Beyond the desire for it to be eye-catching, flowing in natural light, or environmentally friendly, there are still obvious guidelines to follow. Even though the provincial Construction Code has, at times, somewhat lenient regulations, such as the right to design a windowless room, it is still highly important that one conforms to the regulations established in regard to natural lighting and ventilation; it is primordial for the safety of the occupants. Replacing Your Windows: Quebec Guidelines Whether you are wanting to spruce up or wear and tear is making you do so, installing new windows is not an easy endeavour. As a matter of fact, there are numerous factors to consider when drawing up the plans and purchasing items for such a project. First and foremost, know that every municipality or borough, should you reside in Montréal, has its own set of specific guidelines and regulations when it comes to residential projects on buildings having 9 or fewer apartments. Thus, you will have to inquire with your municipality and provide the appropriate paperwork (framing plan, land register, quotes from contractors, manufacturing details, etc.) in order to obtain the necessary permits to jumpstart your renovations. Allow for your budget to account for the cost of these permits. Photo: Flickr In Canada, there are general guidelines to follow regarding window and door installations according to Standard CAN/CSA-A440.4. Basic Standards Changing or remodelling your home should in no way affect the structural system of the property. On top of that, make sure that the devices ensuring that the façade is watertight have been adequately installed, such as flashing, as well as installing the windows with the help of a level and a carpenter’s square to avoid, amongst other things, water infiltration issues and excessive moisture. The overall glass surface must not exceed a specific percentage to limit the risk of fires spreading. Also, their disposition should adhere to the following: In a home, 10% of the wall space in every room must be occupied by windows, except for bedrooms, in which only 5%. Kitchens and bathrooms can benefit from an exemption to this rule should a ventilation apparatus, such as a range hood, be installed. A skylight or roof lantern can be used instead of one window in a home of 2 or more rooms (you can install more than one, without lessening the number of windows). If your house is directly facing a private property, the windows must be 1.5 m away from it. Should you want to add or make existing openings larger, if it is a wall facing a street or alley, you will most likely not meet any obstacles. Regarding the structure: A window must be over 91cm² (3 feet²) unless it is located in a bathroom, then that measurement can be divided by 3. Have a gap between the window, wall, and frame to account for natural movements in the structure over time as a result of temperature variations. This gap will account for a wedge (most often a little piece of wood) to keep the structure level during the window installation process. Avoid adding wedges in the upper section of the window. The gap must be at least ⅜ inches and t most ¾ inches. The more floors in your home, the greater wedge you will need at the top of your window. *Should you be installing or replacing your patio doors and windows, hiring a certified contractor is the best option, as the regulations are complex and will vary based on numerous factors. Photo: Flickr Looking for specialists for your door and window renovation project? Fill out the form so that we can put you in contact with certified contractors from our network! Basement Windows If your home has a finished basement, you will be subjected to rules and regulations in regard to security standards to allow for evacuation in case of an emergency. Needless to say, windows must be able to withstand break-ins and water infiltration, but security and waterproofing measures must meet the requirements established by the Building Code. Furthermore, choosing a model that has been adapted to residents’ needs, i.e. considering that children and people with disabilities will need to evacuate safely, too. So, unless the bedrooms have an exit leading directly outside or if the basement is equipped with a sprinkler system, here is an overview of what should be considered when remodelling: Install a smoke detector in the staircase. Bedrooms must have windows big enough for an adult to crawl through (nothing under 15 inches) and, the opening has to hold on its own, nothing wedged in to hold it open. Window bars or grills must open from the inside. Fix a dresser drawer or something else you could climb right under the window should the ledge be higher than 1.5 metres (59 inches) from the floor. Ensure that the exit is clear of any obstacles: clear the snow around the windows. Should the window open up on a skylight or window well, inquire with a professional as particularities may apply. Heritage Buildings Photo: Flickr A lot of Quebec cities have preserved their heritage by showcasing the remnants of the past by way of architecture: stained glass windows, wood-carved mouldings, ornaments, etc. If your home is getting older, there are chances that it may be among the protected heritage, even though it may seem completely futile information. You will have to preserve the integrity by honouring the time period’s style, whether you are restoring certain features, installing new materials, repainting in similar shades, and ensuring that the window model is as close as it gets to the original one. These guidelines are in order to respect the overall harmony of the façade. Should prior renovations have damaged or destroyed these important aspects, inquire with the neighbouring buildings before making your final decision. Some municipalities offer a referential guide that details which model can replace a certain original to avoid discrepancies. For example, it is forbidden to conceal historic architecture with awnings and avoid installing hung windows if the original layout is for casement windows. Restoring Your Windows If too many elements are hindering the process, or if you decide to wait a few years before financing such a large project by changing all the windows in your home, in the meantime, there are a few tricks to prolong their durability to enhance your comfort. First off, make sure that all moving parts and hardware are functioning properly. Then, check that all sections connected to water evacuation and preventing air infiltration are working adequately. Lastly, consider the aesthetic aspect of the structure: paint, stain… By noting such components, whatever broken or damaged element will be replaced, others will be spruced, and some will be simply maintained as they are still in good condition. Whether you are the type to revere caves or, their complete opposites, glass castles, you may be able to use designing tricks to transform a room to the height of your expectations without having to circle around established rules and regulations. Light paint, mirrors, and removing window screens during the winter are all things you can do to enhance natural light flow. However, thick curtains or huge furniture will give off a more enclosed vibe to any room in case you are not able to get rid of the huge bay window that displeases you so. In any case, there is a solution to your needs. All you have to do is inquire as to the rules and regulations, and remodel accordingly. Looking to get a cost estimate for your windows project? Try out our cost calculator.

Installing a garage door opener can be a rather technical endeavour, but investing in one is more than worth it. Especially so when you know exactly what type of opener to choose. The 3 Main Advantages of a Garage Door Opener Source: Canva Manually opening your garage door can be quite a tedious daily task. However, you could easily be spared the trouble by using an electric opener that boasts comfort, safety, and value for money. 1. Comfort An electric garage door benefits from being opened from afar with the help of a remote control. As such, you no longer need to exit your vehicle midwinter to get into your garage. And, if you want to close it behind while still being comfortably seated, basking in the warmth of your car, you can certainly do so. 2. Safety An electric garage door is harder to open than a manual garage door. Especially so since amongst the accessories sold separately, you can opt for a remote-controlled garage door set with a rolling code technology. What’s that, you ask? Typically, to remotely open a garage door, the remote control will send a set signal to the motor. However, using rolling code technology, your remote control will change the code with each opening. 3. Value for money There are several products available to homeowners on the market. The cost, which includes the door and installation, will be wide-ranging. Plan on spending between $800 and $4,000 to purchase and install a garage door. Naturally, prices climb based on the size of the door, and a double garage door will be more expensive than a single garage door. Which opener should you choose? Source: Canva Garage door opener models largely depend on two factors: type of garage door weight of the door As such, based on their opening mechanisms, garage doors require a specific type of motor. Also, based on their weight, they’ll require a motor with a specific horsepower. Are you looking for general contractors for your renovation project? Fill in our form to be connected with top-rated contractors! Which type of opener suits which garage door? There are five* different types of garage door openers, two of which will be detailed below. 1. Chain drive Chain-drive openers can be the quietest on the market. True to its name, a chain-drive garage door opener operates on a chain mechanism connected to a motor hung from the garage ceiling. The traction uses a sprocket to turn the trolley secured to a track. It’s compatible with the following door types: sectional door overhead garage door However, this type of electric opener isn’t compatible with doors weighing more than 132 lb (60 kg) or measuring more than 86 square feet (8 m²). 2. Belt-drive garage door opener This model is very similar to the one described above, except that instead of relying on a chain, it’s a rubber belt. The motor was made to operate both sectional and overhead garage doors and is ideal for opening and closing 86 square feet (8 m²) doors or more. The rubber belt’s resistance makes it possible to open and close doors weighing up to 176 pounds (86 kg), spanning 107 square feet (10 m²). *Also available are wall-mount, smart, and screw-drive garage door openers. How much horsepower does a garage door opener have? You can choose between three different horsepower: ½ HP/500 N (Newton) ¾ HP/700 N 1 HP/1,000 N The required horsepower for a garage door largely depends on its weight, which is determined by its size. Here’s a chart outlining the required horsepower for each size: Door size Horsepower 9 x 7 ft (2.7 x 2.1 m) ½ HP or 500 N 16 x 7 ft (4.9 x 2.1 m) or solid wood ¾ HP or 700 N > 16 x 7 ft (4.9 x 2.1 m) 1 HP or 1,000 N The motor must always be connected to an automatic reverse function. With it, the garage door will automatically reverse in its track without a problem. The auto-reverse function uses an infrared sensor located at the bottom of the garage door. It has a low-voltage wire connected to the motor’s sensor. Therefore, if the sensor can’t read the infrared beam, the motor will automatically shut off and reverse the door. Since 1982, in the United States, 36 children aged between 2 and 14 were fatally injured by an electric garage door. This is why it’s strongly advised to check the system’s function once a month and adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines and safety warnings. How to Install a Garage Opener on an Overhead Door Source: Canva More and more garage door motors are sold in kits. However, the bottom line is this: if you DIY the installation, you risk partly or completely invalidating the manufacturer’s warranty. Begin by securing the framing against the wall. The framing is what the garage door tracks (or rails) will later be attached to, onto which the electric opening and lowering system will be secured. However, to ensure that the mechanism functions properly, make sure it’s straight. Hence the need for a level or carpenter’s square. Two people are needed to install a garage door. Solely sectional garage door installations can be deemed a one-person job. Once the door is installed, you simply have to connect the door to its power unit. A proper electrical installation mandates a separate connection, one connected to a specific circuit breaker in your electric panel. Repair Tips Two types of glitches can occur with a garage door opener: jam failure Jamming is always linked to components unrelated to the motor. For example, the electric garage door isn’t moving properly along the track and the motor jams. This is also the case when the hinges holding the door panels stick or when worn springs are at fault. When dealing with a malfunctioning motor, the problem lies within the system’s motor. It can turn out to be a power failure or simply the motor wearing over time. Therefore, before taking apart the garage door opener’s motor, best to start by individually cleaning the pieces around the motor and door. Once the mechanisms have been cleaned of any dust or rust stains, then the motor can be carefully taken apart. At that stage, if you’re able to spot the defective piece, simply change it. The culprit can be: Power supply components Infrared sensor Springs Hinges Rollers When in doubt, an expert will know how to find the origin of the failure and fix it. How to Open a Motorized Garage Door Without Electricity Avoid touching anything but the emergency release cord or button. This feature will free the door trolley and allow you to manually open it. Simply pull on the release cord, and allow it to reposition itself. Should you attempt to tinker with the motor, you’re purposefully putting yourself in harm's way given the stress under which every mechanism is when the door is closed. It may be that, depending on your garage’s configuration, you don’t have access to an emergency release cord. If that’s the case, use the quick-release lock mechanism that’s usually found on the door. Simply use your key to unlock it. Naturally, as the saying goes, better safe than sorry; have an emergency battery on hand. Electric Garage Door Opener: A Worthwhile Investment to Boost Comfort and Safety Installing an electric garage door opener means significantly benefiting from several advantages. Such a device greatly simplifies your everyday life by remotely opening and closing your garage door, thereby eliminating the need to do so manually. Furthermore, it reinforces your safety by limiting the risks of break-ins and provides an air-tight seal. And, in terms of energy efficiency, a well-maintained motorized door can significantly reduce heat or cool air losses. In a nutshell, investing in an electric garage door opener translates into improved comfort, peace of mind, convenience, and a well-being boost, making this home improvement project worthwhile for safety-conscious homeowners.

Has your brother-in-law recently replaced his garage door, and now the slight rumbling sound from the tracks is nothing like the rattling and grinding coming from yours? While professional intervention might be necessary for your garage door, in many instances, regular seasonal upkeep can significantly restore its proper functioning. Let us guide you through proper garage door maintenance to ensure it works like new, or as best as it possibly can! How to Maintain a Garage Door Source: Canva All garage doors, whether sectional, tilt-up, swinging, or roll-up, share one crucial aspect: regular maintenance guarantees their proper functioning and helps avoid any emergency repairs. Step 1. Clean your garage doors Horizontal garage door panels will retain their appealing finish if they’re cleaned on a regular basis. Avoid using abrasive cleaners and never use pressure washers, as doing so may damage or chip the paint. Start by rinsing your door using a garden hose to remove dust that settled on its surface. Then, clean the panel with lukewarm water, using a gentle soap, car soap, or dishwashing liquid. Gently scrub using a sponge or a soft rag, then rinse with clean water. Allow the surface to dry or manually do so with a microfibre or chamois cloth to prevent any less-than-appealing streaks. If the door has lites (glass inserts), proceed with a gentle soap to clean the PVC frames. The glass inserts should be cleaned with a water-vinegar solution. Avoid using a scraper to remove any tough stains as it might scratch the glass. Weatherstripping ensures the garage door is sealed, and prevents air leaks and humidity buildup, as well as dust, insects, and rodents from sneaking in. As made evident, it’s crucial to keep the weatherstripping clean. If it’s PVC, clean it using an all-purpose cleaner, like one used for patio furniture. Rinse with a garden hose set on low. Step 2. Lubricate garage doors Lubrication is a crucial step to prolong your garage door service life. Various hardware should be lubricated twice yearly. Lubricate hinges and drums Lubricate the pivot hinge to ensure its proper functioning. Also, lubricate the part of the track where the drums are located. Experts will usually recommend a product like 10W30 motor oil. Lubricate tracks and springs Also, spray a bit of motor oil on the horizontal tracks, mainly where the track curves and inside the track itself, where the drums roll back and forth. Doing so prolongs the service life of the hardware and limits squealing. Wipe away the excess oil with a rag. Proceed as such with the springs. Apply the oil, wipe off any excess, and say goodbye to grinding and squealing! Lubricate weatherstripping around the door To maintain the rubber’s suppleness, apply silicone-based lube every other month. Avoid using petrol-based products. Apply lube to the interior and exterior surfaces of the weatherstripping, frame, door sill, and if any, between sections. NOTE: Lubricating the trolley of the garage door opener proves useful. Typically, lubricating it when installed suffices. However, if it does need to be lubed, use white grease. PRO TIP: If needed, use cardboard to limit splashing. Examples of Garage Door Lubricants Purchase a good, specially-made lubricant. There’s no need to pay top dollar—excellent products typically retail for a reasonable price, anywhere between $12 to $15. You can purchase garage door cleaning products directly from specialized companies like Garaga. Here are two examples of products readily available in hardware or department stores: WD-40 3-in-One professional garage door spring lubricant, which prevents rust and is quick-dry, 311 g This is a 3-in-1 formula that can be applied to hinges, tracks, pulleys, springs, ball bearings, and chains to prevent rust, corrosion, and grinding. This quick-dry, high-performing formula doesn’t leave any residue, limits dust buildup and promises a near noiseless and hassle-free functioning. All-around Jig-A-Loo garage door spray lubricant, 311 g This lubricant is specially made for garage door parts and mechanisms. Its 4-season formula is perfectly suited for Canadian winters. Its quick-dry, silicone-base formula protects against rust and corrosion and minimizes the accumulation of dust and dirt. Are you looking for general contractors for your renovation project? Fill in our form to be connected with top-rated contractors! Our Top Tips for Any and All Repairs Source: Canva Seasonal maintenance and upkeep—before winter and in springtime—means prolonging the service life of your garage door, while enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Rust, jammed mechanisms, neverending noise and squeaking are all headache-inducing factors that can be easily avoided. You don’t have to spend loads to purchase products, nor countless hours cleaning. As it’s often the case with renovations or repairs, it’s better to act now than regret it later. Things don’t miraculously fix themselves. Therefore, even if you’re now more knowledgeable as to how to clean your garage door like a pro, an annual inspection, done by the installer, is always a good idea. What to check and when? Check the garage door operator on a quarterly basis. The garage door must be perfectly balanced, as uneven load distribution puts unnecessary strain on the motor. Never attempt to adjust the springs, bottom hinges, or drum cables yourself as it could put you in harm’s way. Regularly check the safety photo beam detectors. Your garage door should automatically reverse its motion if it detects an object or person in its path. If it doesn’t reverse automatically, contact a professional right away. Ensure the door fully opens and closes. If necessary, adjust the path commands or strength; most garage door openers can be fine-tuned using two distinct buttons. When carrying out maintenance on your garage door, check the hinges, drums, bolts, and track supports to ensure they’re securely fastened. If you notice any irregularities, contact a specialist. Precautionary Measures Be mindful not to increase the pressure too much when calibrating the door opener. If the weatherstripping found on the door sill is crushed, its service life will be cut short. Also, the friction caused may hinder the door’s proper functioning. Keep the door opener’s remote control out of children’s reach. Never allow them to play with it. Caution, high voltage! Don’t touch! Here’s a list of repairs that you should never attempt yourself on your garage door system: Replace a damaged garage door panel Replace a broken spring Replace broken drums or lift cables Also, don’t attempt to reset your garage door on its tracks. Keep in mind that the spring system is connected to the lift cables, which are securely anchored to the bottom of the door. The spring system is located right above your head, and holds the weight of the door, which can easily weigh 300 pounds, and removing a part of the whole system, it’s a lot like putting one’s head on the chopping block, literally. PRO TIP: Already have a garage door opener? Try using the emergency release cord to manually open the door, that way you can check if the door’s opening system functions properly. You should be able to do so one-handed. If not, you’ve just pinpointed a problem. In fact, if the spring system is in good condition, it serves as a counterweight and the door shouldn’t weigh more than 8 to 10 pounds. What type of wax can be used on the door panel? Source: Canva Apply a thin and even coat of liquid wax to the garage door every year, ensuring no deposits spot the surface. Doing so will protect your garage door’s overall lustre while also restoring its sheen. A good wax will also protect its finish against UV rays. For metal garage doors with an enamel paint finish: industry specialists suggest using GS-2000 car wax. Apply some once a year to protect your door’s lustres and sheen. Avoid applying such wax on sunny days. TRICK: Wax deposits stuck between the wood’s grain can be removed by delicately brushing the surface with a soft-bristled brush. Pay careful attention to any residue found near the door’s frame or decorative moulding. Spray holding the can 10 to 15 cm away from the surface and use a soft rag to spread the wax and polish your garage door.

Threshold seal, weather stripping, insulation kit, etc., the methods of weather-sealing a garage door surely aren’t lacking. Learn why it’s beneficial to insulate your garage door, and most importantly, how to proceed. Benefits of Insulating a Garage Door with a Weather Seal Source: Canva Weather sealing your garage door has numerous benefits. Here are the main three: 1. Limit heat loss A garage door is always a point of weakness when it comes to a home’s overall insulation. On average, the R-value of a garage door, which indicates the material’s effectiveness in terms of insulation, is only between 0 and 20. Why’s that, you ask? Because the material’s effectiveness is based on 2 factors: type; thickness. Regardless of their type, garage doors aren’t especially thick. Therefore, it’s best to focus on insulating the sides of the door as effectively as possible to limit drafts and cut back on heat consumption during winter and air conditioning during summer. 2. Limit noise pollution The gaps between the garage door, the frame and the wall should also be packed to limit any noise pollution. Materials designed for weather sealing are rarely the same as those used for soundproofing. However, there are materials that garner these 2 features. It so happens to be the case for: aerogels; cellulose insulation; cork; wood fibre. 3. Improve indoor air quality Albeit we rarely think about it, indoor air quality can be significantly influenced by the quality of the outdoor air. In 1997, as part of a study done by a Canadian research institute on indoor air quality, a residential garage door was insulated to help the homeowner alleviate their asthma symptoms. At cause? Motor vehicle traffic, especially. Therefore, even if improving indoor air quality in your home isn’t at the top of your list when it comes to insulation-related work, you’ll still breathe better. Are you looking for general contractors for your renovation project? Fill in our form to be connected with top-rated contractors! How to Weather Seal a Garage Door Source: Canva Here’s a 5-step guide to weather sealing your garage door: Step 1: Choose the right material The most commonly used insulation material for PVC or sheet metal garage doors is polystyrene or polyurethane sheets. However, you can also opt for wood fibre panels or thermal shield insulation. Choosing a material doesn’t mean solely focusing on its insulation-based qualities but more on the type of garage door that’s in question. For example, while wood fibre is the best insulation material out of the three, its weight doesn’t suit an overhead garage door. Step 2: Seal around the frame Typically, garage doors are retailed according to standard sizing, which can increase the gaps between the frame and the walls. As such, the first thing to do to insulate your garage door is weather-seal said gaps. To that effect, there are two solutions available: adhesives; expanding spray foam. Based on the size of the gap between the frame and wall, adhesives can effectively fill in the cavities. However, if the gaps are too big, instead opt for expanding foam. Step 3: Insulate the garage door Garage doors are more often than not made with one or more very thin panels. Therefore, as above-mentioned, the thinner a material, the less effective it is, insulation-wise. To enhance the insulation properties and render it more effective, now’s the time to use the material you selected in Step 1. There are also insulation kits sold in all hardware stores. These kits include thin insulation panels, which can either be in the shape of: a roll or; panel. To install these, you can simply apply a double-side adhesive to the surface of the garage doors. Step 4: Install threshold strip This element is near-invaluable for overhead garage doors that close vertically. Without a threshold strip, there’s an entry point for air between the bottom of the door and the ground. To insulate this entry point, threshold strips are available in 3 different materials: steel: very resistant but oxidizes over time. aluminum: doesn’t oxidate and is rather rigid when extruded. synthetic materials or rubber. The only issue in regard to this solution is that repetitive vehicle traffic can damage your door’s threshold strip and limit, or render useless, its insulation properties. This is often the case when it comes to threshold strips made of rubber or synthetic materials. Step 5: Install weather stripping An add-on or straight-up alternative to the garage door threshold strip, a weather stripping is a U-shaped seal that runs along the bottom of the garage door. When the door is shut, it applies pressure onto the stripping, which then creates a seal between the door and the ground. Weather stripping for doors is available in hardware stores for less than $50 and can be fitted without the need for tools. Simply apply lubricant to the gaps at the bottom of the garage doors, then slide the strip in place. Allow for half an inch of excess material to overhang on either side and, if it gets in the way, trim part of it and tuck the excess length inside. Garage Door Weather Stripping Models Garage door weather stripping prices range from $30 to $70. Here’s why the pricing differs: Thickness (starting at ¼ in. to 1 in.); Length (9 in. to 10 in.); Width (2 ½ in. to 3 in.); The size of the gap to seal; Installation system (slide-on or screw-in).