![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
Opening your garage door to find a puddle of water on the floor is a nightmare for any garage owner. A leaking garage door is a common issue that can lead to costly damage if ignored. From soaked belongings and stained floors to damp and mould formation, the consequences can be significant. Luckily, if you're a keen DIYer, stopping a garage door from leaking can be done in a few easy steps. In this guide, we’ll explore how to stop a garage door from leaking and keep your garage dry and secure.
There can be several reasons why your garage door leaks when it rains, and understanding the root of the problem is the first step towards fixing it. Here are some common causes of garage door leaks.
Worn-out garage bottom door seal - The seal for the bottom of a garage door is the first line of defence against water. Over time, it can wear out, crack or become too flexible, allowing water to seep in.
Damaged or missing garage door water seal - Also known as a threshold seal, a garage door water seal forms a barrier between the floor and the bottom of the garage door and prevents water from flowing under the garage door.
Damaged side seals and top seals - Leaks at the top and sides of the garage door will indicate insufficient or damaged seals or worn weatherstripping that will need to be repaired or replaced.
Poor drainage or sloping issues - If your driveway slopes towards the garage or if there is inadequate drainage around it, rainwater can pool near the entrance and may eventually find its way under the door.
A misaligned garage door - if your garage door isn’t properly aligned, it can create gaps that let the rain in. Even a slight misalignment can cause a significant leak during heavy rain.
Now we’ve established some of the common causes of garage door leaks, here’s how to address them.
Inspect the bottom of your garage door and assess the condition of the bottom garage door seal. Damaged seals may be cracked or torn, they might feel flimsy rather than rigid and may compress under the weight of the door when it's closed. Old, deteriorated seals allow gaps to form under the door for water to enter so a replacement seal is necessary. Fitting a garage door bottom seal to keep water out is a relatively simple DIY job. Check out this fitting guide for detailed steps to help you replace worn garage door bottom seals.
A garage door water seal also called a threshold seal is a common and effective way to reduce the chances of rain entering your garage during bad weather. The threshold seal or garage floor seal, is fixed to the floor of your garage with a strong adhesive and creates an effective barrier against rain, melted snow or water drainage. Installing a threshold seal is simple and this DIY fitting guide will show you all the steps you need to take.
The seals along the sides and top of your garage door play a crucial role in keeping water out. Over time, these seals can become worn, cracked, or loose, compromising their effectiveness. Start by thoroughly inspecting these areas for any signs of damage, such as gaps, brittleness, or detachment from the door frame. If you notice any issues, replace it with a garage door multi seal to restore a tight, waterproof barrier. Follow this step-by-step guide to know how to install a multi seal.
If your driveway slopes towards your garage, ensure your gutters and drains are clear and able to handle the rainwater effectively. Consider installing a drainage channel to help direct the water away from your garage door.
You can test the alignment of your garage door by closing it and seeing whether it sits flush with the garage floor. Large gaps that can’t be closed with replacement seals will indicate the door may need realignment. If you’re not a garage door maintenance specialist, you’ll need to hire a professional to assess and perform the realignment.
With heavy rainfall being a fairly regular occurrence in the UK, the threat of garage door leaks can feel constant. Once you’ve taken the steps to keep water away from your garage door, here are some maintenance tips to help prevent leaks in the future.
Perform regular inspections on all garage door seals and the door alignment, especially before autumn and winter.
Maintain the upkeep and cleanliness around your garage and ensure proper drainage by keeping drainpipes and gutters free of debris.
If your garage door is old or leaks frequently, consider upgrading to a modern garage door if new seals and realignment aren’t sufficient fixes.
By understanding the common causes and taking proactive steps, you can prevent garage door leaks from causing unnecessary damage to your home or belongings.
JA Seals are specialists in garage door seals and we supply a large range of products to prevent water from entering your garage. Whether you need a new garage door water seal or a seal for the bottom of a garage door, we have the right weatherproof seal to suit your requirements. Shop our range of seals to find the perfect solution or contact our helpful team for advice.