Is your garage door letting in drafts, bugs, or noise through gaps along the sides? These annoying side gaps can make your garage less comfortable and waste energy. The good news is that fixing this problem is often a simple DIY project.
You can fix garage door side gaps by adjusting the track brackets, replacing weatherstripping, or realigning the door itself. Most garage doors have adjustment points that let you move the tracks closer to the wall or reposition the door for a tighter seal. Some fixes take just minutes with basic tools.
Before calling a professional, try a few simple adjustments. Many homeowners find they can adjust the track to move the door closer to the wall by loosening the brackets near the top. For severely misaligned doors, you might need to disconnect the door from the drive and reset its position. These quick fixes can save you money and improve your garage’s comfort and security.
Understanding Garage Door Side Gaps
Side gaps between your garage door and the frame can cause multiple issues for homeowners, from energy loss to security concerns. Knowing what causes these gaps and their potential risks will help you address the problem effectively.
What Is a Garage Door Side Gap
A garage door side gap is the space between the vertical edges of your garage door and the door frame or wall. These gaps typically appear as narrow openings running along either side of the door. Ideally, your garage door should have a small, consistent gap of about 1/4 inch on each side to allow smooth operation without binding.
The side gap serves a functional purpose, allowing the door to move freely without scraping against the frame. However, when these gaps become too large or uneven, they can create problems. Proper weatherstripping should cover these normal operating gaps to prevent air, water, and pests from entering.
You can easily identify problematic side gaps by looking for daylight coming through the sides when the door is closed or by feeling for drafts.
Common Causes of Side Gaps
Several factors can lead to excessive garage door side gaps:
- Track misalignment – The metal tracks guiding your door may have shifted over time or been improperly installed. When tracks aren’t properly aligned, the door won’t seal correctly against the sides.
- Worn hardware – Hinges, rollers, and brackets can wear down, causing the door to hang improperly and create side gaps.
- Foundation settling – Your home’s foundation might shift over time, affecting the garage structure and creating uneven door gaps.
- Damaged weatherstripping – Old or damaged side seals can fail to bridge the normal operating gap between the door and frame.
- Improper installation – If the garage door tracks were installed too far from the wall initially, this can create excessive side gaps.
Risks of Ignoring Side Gaps
Leaving garage door side gaps unaddressed can lead to several problems:
Energy waste is a primary concern. During summer and winter, conditioned air escapes through these gaps, forcing your HVAC system to work harder and increasing your energy bills. In colder climates, this can also lead to frozen pipes in the garage.
Pest intrusion becomes more likely with side gaps. Even small openings provide entry points for insects, rodents, and other unwanted visitors. Mice can squeeze through gaps as small as 1/4 inch.
Water damage can occur during heavy rain or snow as moisture seeps through the gaps. This can damage items stored in your garage and potentially lead to mold growth or rot in wooden structures.
Security vulnerabilities are another serious risk. Large side gaps might allow thieves to insert tools to manipulate the door’s locking mechanism. This compromises your home’s security and puts your belongings at risk.
Assessing the Extent of the Side Gap
Before fixing garage door side gaps, you need to properly evaluate the problem. A thorough assessment helps determine the appropriate solution and ensures effective repairs.
Measuring the Gap Width
Start by using a tape measure to check the width of the gap between your garage door and the frame. Measure at several points: top, middle, and bottom of both sides. Standard weatherstripping typically covers gaps up to 1/4 inch wide.
For more precise measurements, use a gap gauge tool or even a credit card (which is about 0.03 inches thick) as a reference. Note each measurement on paper or in your phone.
Larger gaps (exceeding 1/2 inch) often indicate more serious problems that might require track adjustments or professional help. Adjust the track to move the door closer to the wall if measurements show excessive spacing.
Identifying Uneven Gaps
Uneven gaps are common and require special attention. Check if the gap is wider at the top, middle, or bottom of the door sides.
A wider gap at the top might indicate sagging hinges, while a wider gap at the bottom could mean the door is mounted too high. Use a level to check if the garage door frame is square.
Common uneven gap patterns:
- Top wider than bottom: Often caused by loose top hinges
- Bottom wider than top: May indicate floor settling or improper installation
- Middle wider than ends: Could be warping in the door panels
Inconsistent measurements often require different sealing approaches for different sections of the door.
Checking for Door Misalignment
Door misalignment is a frequent cause of side gaps. Place a carpenter’s level vertically against the door to check if it’s hanging properly.
Next, examine the tracks. Are they bent, damaged or improperly installed? Look for any visible bending or dents. Check if the brackets holding the tracks are securely fastened to the wall.
Test the door operation manually (with the automatic opener disconnected). The door should move smoothly without binding or resistance. If you feel resistance or hear scraping, the tracks likely need adjustment.
Check the rollers as well—worn or damaged rollers can cause the door to sit improperly in the tracks, creating side gaps. Look for signs that the door needs travel adjustment if it doesn’t open or close completely.
Preparing for Adjustment
Before fixing a garage door side gap, proper preparation ensures both safety and effectiveness. Having the right tools and taking safety measures will make the adjustment process smoother and prevent potential injuries.
Gathering Required Tools and Materials
To properly adjust a garage door side gap, you’ll need several specific tools:
- Adjustable wrench or socket set
- Pliers
- Winding rods (if adjusting spring tension)
- Ladder tall enough to reach the top of your garage door
- Tape measure
- Level
- Lubricant spray
- Replacement weatherstripping (if needed)
- Screwdriver set
The most important tools are the winding rods for spring adjustments and a proper ladder for safe access. Measure your garage door gap before starting to understand how much adjustment is needed.
Keep all tools organized and within reach during the repair process. This prevents unnecessary trips up and down the ladder while working.
Ensuring Safety Precautions
Working on garage doors can be dangerous due to tension springs and heavy moving parts. Always disconnect the garage door opener by pulling the emergency release cord before beginning work.
Critical safety measures:
- Wear safety glasses and gloves
- Never adjust torsion springs without proper training
- Work with a partner when possible
- Secure the ladder on level ground
- Keep children and pets away from the work area
If your door has tension springs, use extreme caution. These springs store significant energy and can cause serious injury if mishandled.
For complex adjustments, particularly those involving spring tension, consider consulting a professional. The small cost of professional service outweighs the risk of injury.
How to Adjust Garage Door Side Gap – Step-By-Step Process
Fixing gaps between your garage door and the side jambs is a straightforward process that requires minimal tools. Proper alignment of the vertical tracks is the key to eliminating unwanted side gaps.
Loosening the Track Brackets
Start by gathering your tools: a socket wrench, ladder, and flashlight. For safety, disconnect the garage door from the opener by pulling the emergency release cord.
Locate the track brackets on both sides of your garage door. These metal brackets secure the vertical tracks to the wall. Using your socket wrench, loosen (but don’t completely remove) the bolts that attach the brackets to the wall.
Make sure to loosen all brackets along the vertical track. Most doors have 3-4 brackets per side. Work systematically from top to bottom to ensure you don’t miss any connection points.
Keep the bolts loose enough that you can move the track by hand, but not so loose that the track shifts position on its own.
Repositioning the Vertical Tracks
Examine the gap between your door and jamb. The ideal gap should be about 1/8 to 1/4 inch on each side. Too much space allows air leakage while too little can cause binding.
Gently push or pull the track to reposition it closer to or further from the door edge. You may need a helper to hold the door in place while you make adjustments.
For precision, use a measuring tape to ensure equal spacing on both sides. Many homeowners use small wooden spacers to maintain consistent spacing while adjusting.
If the door has uneven gaps (wider at top or bottom), you’ll need to angle the track slightly. Shift the top or bottom of the track inward or outward as needed to create uniform spacing.
Securing and Testing the Adjustment
Once you’re satisfied with the track position, begin tightening the bracket bolts. Start from the top and work your way down, checking that the track doesn’t shift while tightening.
Tighten each bolt firmly, but avoid over-tightening which could warp the track. Check the seal between the door and jamb after securing each bracket.
Test your adjustments by manually operating the door through its full range of motion. The door should move smoothly without catching or binding at any point.
If you notice the door still rubs or has uneven gaps, you may need to make additional adjustments. Sometimes adjusting the top fixtures is also necessary to fix alignment issues.
Reconnect your garage door opener after you’re satisfied with the manual operation of the door. Do a final test using the opener to ensure proper function.
Fine-Tuning and Ensuring Proper Seal
Once you’ve made basic adjustments to your garage door tracks, fine-tuning the seal is essential for keeping out drafts, pests, and moisture. Proper sealing along the sides will improve energy efficiency and protect your garage contents.
Adjusting the Weatherstripping
Check the condition of your side weatherstripping first. If it’s worn or damaged, replace the weather stripping before making other adjustments. Most weatherstripping is attached with nuts and bolts or rivets.
To adjust existing weatherstripping:
- Loosen the fasteners holding the weatherstripping in place
- Reposition it closer to the door edge
- Make sure it creates firm contact without causing resistance
- Tighten the fasteners securely
For stubborn gaps, install thicker weatherstripping or add a secondary seal. Brush-style seals work well for uneven surfaces. Vinyl or rubber seals provide better insulation for climate control.
Verifying Even Contact Along the Door
After adjusting the weatherstripping, verify that your door makes even contact all along the seal. Close the door slowly and look for light coming through any gaps.
Use the limit switch adjustment screws on your garage door opener to fine-tune the closing position. These are typically located on the opener unit itself. Turn the adjustment screw in small increments, testing after each adjustment.
For manual inspection, use the “dollar bill test”:
- Place a dollar bill between the door and weatherstripping
- Close the door
- Try to pull the bill out
If the bill pulls out easily, that area needs additional adjustment. The bill should be held firmly but not trapped completely. Test multiple spots along both sides of the door to ensure consistent contact.
Troubleshooting Persistent Side Gap Issues
When garage door side gaps persist despite basic adjustments, deeper issues may be affecting your door’s alignment. These problems typically stem from damage to the tracks or warping of the door panels.
Identifying Track Damage
Damaged garage door tracks are a common culprit behind stubborn side gaps. Begin by visually inspecting the entire track length for dents, bends, or misalignments. Use a level to check if the tracks are properly aligned vertically and horizontally.
If you find minor dents, you may be able to adjust the tracks yourself using a rubber mallet and pliers to gently reshape the metal. Tap carefully to avoid creating new problems.
For more serious track damage, consider:
- Loosening track brackets to realign them
- Replacing severely damaged track sections
- Using a straightedge to verify track straightness
Never operate your door with significantly damaged tracks as this can worsen the problem and create safety hazards.
Recognizing Warped Door Panels
Door panels can warp due to moisture, temperature changes, impact damage, or age. Look for uneven spacing between panels or sections that appear curved or twisted when the door is closed.
To check for warping, close your door and use a straightedge along each panel. Any gap between the straightedge and panel indicates warping. Measure the side gaps at different heights to identify where the warping is most severe.
Warped wooden panels sometimes respond to:
- Controlled moisture exposure to reverse warping
- Adding reinforcement strips across the back
- Adjusting hinges to compensate for moderate warping
For metal or severely warped panels, replacement is often the most effective solution. Panel replacement requires precise measurements and is sometimes best left to professionals.
When to Seek Professional Help
While many garage door side gap issues can be fixed by homeowners, some situations require professional assistance. Safety should always be your top priority when working with garage doors.
Call a professional if you notice broken or severely damaged tracks. Damaged tracks can cause the door to fall, creating a serious safety hazard.
You should seek expert help when dealing with spring issues. Garage door springs store massive tension and can cause serious injury if mishandled. If your door gap problems stem from spring tension, it’s best to call a professional.
Consider professional help if you’ve tried multiple adjustments and the door still has significant side gaps. This might indicate deeper structural problems.
Contact experts when your garage door shows these warning signs:
- Door falls rapidly when closing
- Makes unusual grinding noises
- Moves unevenly or gets stuck
- Has visibly bent hardware components
If your door has electronic components affecting alignment, professional technicians have specialized tools to adjust the travel limits properly.
Remember that annual maintenance by professionals can prevent many gap issues from developing. Regular professional service extends your door’s lifespan and ensures safe operation.
Maintaining a Properly Aligned Garage Door
Regular maintenance ensures your garage door operates smoothly and prevents side gaps from developing. Taking proactive steps will extend the life of your door and keep it properly aligned.
Regular Inspection Tips
Check your garage door alignment at least every three months. Look for any visible gaps along the sides of the door when it’s fully closed. These gaps should be consistent and minimal (about ¼ inch is ideal for proper ventilation).
Examine the tracks for any debris, dirt, or obstructions that might force the door out of alignment. A clean track allows rollers to move freely and maintain proper positioning.
Inspect the rollers for wear and tear. Damaged rollers can cause the door to shift sideways, creating uneven gaps. Replace any rollers that appear worn or broken.
Test the balance of your door by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting it halfway. A properly balanced door should stay in place. If it moves up or down, your springs need adjustment.
Preventive Maintenance Suggestions
Lubricate all moving parts every six months using a silicone-based lubricant. Apply it to rollers, hinges, and tracks to reduce friction that can cause misalignment. Avoid using WD-40 as it attracts dirt over time.
Tighten any loose hardware regularly. Vibrations from normal operation can loosen bolts and screws, affecting door alignment. Pay special attention to the brackets that hold the tracks.
Adjust the track brackets if you notice the door is starting to develop uneven side gaps. Most track brackets have slotted holes that allow for minor adjustments without complete disassembly.
Clean tracks and rollers quarterly with a damp cloth. After cleaning, dry thoroughly to prevent rust formation. Rust can cause components to stick and lead to misalignment.
Consider installing weatherstripping along the sides of your garage door to minimize gaps and improve energy efficiency. Replace worn weatherstripping promptly.
Additional Tips for Enhancing Garage Door Performance
After fixing the side gap in your garage door, you can take a few extra steps to improve overall performance. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your door working smoothly and preventing future gaps.
Lubricate moving parts every 3-6 months with a silicone-based lubricant. Apply it to the rollers, hinges, springs, and tracks to reduce friction and noise.
Check your door’s balance by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting the door halfway. A properly balanced door should stay in place without rising or falling.
Tighten all hardware regularly as vibrations can loosen bolts and screws over time. This simple step prevents misalignment that can lead to gaps.
Replace worn weather stripping before it fails completely. Quality weather stripping keeps out drafts, pests, and water.
Consider adjusting the travel limits on your garage door opener. This ensures your door closes completely without putting too much pressure on the bottom seal.
Clean the garage door tracks every few months. Remove debris that can interfere with smooth operation and potentially cause misalignment.
Install a garage door threshold to create an additional seal at the bottom of your door. This helps with insulation and keeps out water, leaves, and small pests.
Test your door’s auto-reverse safety feature monthly by placing an object in the door’s path. A properly functioning system will reverse when it detects an obstacle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Garage door side gaps can cause energy loss, weather damage, and security concerns. The right adjustments and tools can fix these common issues without professional help in most cases.
What steps are needed to correct a gap on one side of my garage door?
To fix a gap on one side of your garage door, start by checking if the tracks are properly aligned. Loosen the screws that attach the track to your garage wall with a screwdriver.
Give the track just enough play to adjust it from side to side. Move the track inward to reduce the gap, then retighten the screws.
If the gap exists because the door was installed flush with one side instead of centered, you may need to reposition the entire track system.
In what ways can I seal the top and side gaps in my garage door?
Weather stripping is the most effective solution for sealing top and side gaps. For the sides, install vinyl or rubber garage door seals that attach to the door jamb.
For the top gap, use a brushed or vinyl threshold seal that conforms to any irregularities between the door and header.
Garage door threshold seals can also help with bottom gaps while preventing water, debris, and pests from entering your garage.
What is the procedure for aligning garage door tracks to eliminate side gaps?
Start by disconnecting your garage door opener for safety. Check the tracks for proper alignment and look for any bends or damage.
Loosen the bolts on the track brackets to allow for adjustment. Use a level to ensure the tracks are perfectly vertical, then adjust their position inward if needed to reduce side gaps.
Once properly positioned, tighten all bolts securely. Test the door manually to ensure it moves smoothly without binding.
How can one fix a garage door that has a gap between its panels?
Panel gaps usually indicate worn hinges or improper installation. Inspect the hinges connecting the panels and tighten any loose screws.
If hinges are damaged or worn, replace them with new ones of the same size and style. This often resolves minor alignment issues between panels.
For larger gaps, you might need to adjust the horizontal tracks or replace weatherstripping between panels to create a better seal.
Why does my garage door have a gap at the bottom on the sides, and how can I fix it?
Bottom side gaps often occur because the door isn’t sitting evenly on the ground. You can apply downward pressure on the door when it’s disconnected from the opener to check if this closes the gaps.
Check your door’s spring tension, as improper tension can cause uneven closing. Adjusting the springs may help the door close more evenly.
Install an appropriately sized threshold seal or garage door bottom seal to fill any remaining gaps at the bottom corners.
Can covering the side gaps of a garage door improve insulation, and what are the best methods?
Yes, sealing side gaps significantly improves your garage’s insulation and energy efficiency. The temperature difference can be noticeable, especially during extreme weather.
The most effective method is installing vinyl or rubber garage door seals along the sides. These create an airtight barrier that prevents heat loss.
For enhanced insulation, combine side seals with a complete weatherstripping system around the entire door perimeter, including top and bottom seals.