How quickly can you fix my slow movement?

We can typically diagnose and fix slow movement issues the same day you call. Slow garage door movement is usually caused by worn rollers, lack of lubrication, misaligned tracks, or a weakening spring. Our technicians carry all common replacement parts on their trucks, so most repairs are completed in a single visit. For emergencies, we offer 30-minute response times 24/7. Call us at (857) 371-3690 for immediate assistance.

What causes slow movement in garage doors?

Several factors can cause your garage door to move slowly: 1) Worn or damaged rollers that create friction in the tracks. 2) Lack of proper lubrication on moving parts. 3) Misaligned or bent tracks that impede smooth movement. 4) Weakening torsion or extension springs that can't support the door's weight efficiently. 5) Opener motor issues or stripped gears. 6) Cold weather can thicken lubricants and cause sluggish operation. Our technicians perform a comprehensive inspection to identify the exact cause and provide a permanent solution.

Do you offer financing for new traditional door installations?

Yes! We understand that a new garage door is a significant investment. We offer several financing options to make your new traditional door installation affordable: 1) 0% APR financing for qualified buyers on purchases over $1,500. 2) Low monthly payment plans with terms from 12 to 60 months. 3) Same-as-cash options if paid within promotional period. 4) We accept all major credit cards. Contact us for a free consultation and we'll discuss the best financing option for your budget. All installations come with our 5-year warranty guarantee.

What types of garage doors do you install?

We install all types of residential and commercial garage doors including: Traditional raised panel steel doors, Carriage house style doors with decorative hardware, Contemporary aluminum and glass doors, Wood and wood-composite doors, Insulated doors for energy efficiency, Custom doors in any size or style. We carry doors from top manufacturers and can match any home's architectural style. All installations include a 5-year warranty on workmanship.

How often should I have my garage door serviced?

We recommend having your garage door professionally serviced at least once a year. Annual maintenance helps prevent unexpected breakdowns, extends the life of your door and opener, and ensures safe operation. Our maintenance service includes a 25-point inspection, lubrication of all moving parts, spring tension adjustment, track alignment, safety sensor testing, and a detailed report with recommendations. Regular maintenance can save you money by catching small issues before they become expensive repairs.

What is your warranty policy?

We stand behind our work with comprehensive warranty coverage: 5-year warranty on all repair workmanship, Lifetime warranty on installation labor, Manufacturer warranties on parts (typically 1-5 years depending on component), Extended warranty options available for additional peace of mind. If anything we repair or install fails within the warranty period, we'll fix it at no additional cost to you. Our warranty is fully transferable if you sell your home.

Do you provide emergency garage door service?

Yes! We offer 24/7 emergency garage door service with an average response time of 30 minutes. Our emergency services include: Broken spring replacement, Off-track door repair, Opener malfunctions, Storm damage repair, Security lock-outs, and any situation where your garage door won't open or close. There's no extra charge for emergency calls - you pay the same fair rates as our regular service appointments. Call (857) 371-3690 any time, day or night.

How long does a garage door installation take?

A standard garage door installation typically takes 3-5 hours, depending on the complexity of the project. This includes removal of the old door, installation of the new door and hardware, opener installation or reconnection, programming and testing, and cleanup. Custom or oversized doors may take longer. We always complete installations in one visit so you're not left without a functioning garage door overnight.

Are your technicians licensed and insured?

Absolutely! All our technicians are fully licensed, bonded, and insured for your protection. Additionally, our team is: IDA (International Door Association) certified, EPA certified for safe disposal practices, Background checked for your peace of mind, Trained in the latest safety protocols and techniques. We carry comprehensive liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage, so you're never at risk when we're working on your property.

How can I tell if my garage door springs need replacing?

Several signs indicate your springs may need replacement: Visible gaps in the spring coils (for torsion springs), The door feels unusually heavy when lifting manually, The door opens unevenly or crooked, You hear loud squeaking or grinding noises, The door won't stay open when raised halfway, The opener struggles or strains to lift the door, The springs are more than 7-10 years old. Never attempt to replace springs yourself - they're under extreme tension and can cause serious injury. Call our professionals for safe spring replacement.

Weather Stripping & Seals in Arlington, MA: Stop Drafts and Save Money

2026-06-10 7 min read

A customer called last Tuesday complaining her garage felt like a freezer even with the heat running full blast. A quick inspection revealed the culprit: worn weather stripping and a failing bottom seal letting cold air pour in. The fix was straightforward, the cost was reasonable, and her energy bills dropped noticeably within weeks. This is one of the easiest, most cost-effective repairs homeowners in Arlington overlook.

Weather stripping and seals are your garage's first line of defense against drafts, moisture, and temperature swings. When these components wear out, you lose heating and cooling efficiency, attract pests, and damage stored items. The good news? Replacement costs far less than replacing springs or openers, and the work takes hours, not days. See our guide on belt drive vs. chain drive vs. smart openers: the arlington homeowner.

Why Weather Stripping Fails in Arlington

New England winters are brutal. Freezing temperatures, salt spray from roads, and constant expansion/contraction cycles break down rubber and foam materials faster than homeowners expect. Most weather stripping lasts 5 to 8 years depending on climate exposure and maintenance.

The bottom seal takes the hardest hit. It sits closest to the ground, absorbs moisture, and flexes every time your door opens and closes. Once cracks appear or pieces separate, drafts rush in. Threshold seals fail similarly, especially if your garage door sits near ground level or in a shadier spot where moisture lingers. Read about belt replacement: a complete guide for homeowners.

You might also notice:

- Visible gaps between the door and frame, Daylight visible around the edges, Increased heating or cooling bills, Dust or debris inside the garage, Small insects or spiders near the seal edges

The Cost of Ignoring Drafts

Ignoring worn weather stripping costs more than fixing it. A poorly sealed garage door can leak enough conditioned air to increase your winter heating bill by 10 to 15 percent. Over a heating season, that translates to $150 to $300 in wasted energy for many Arlington homeowners.

Beyond dollars, drafts invite moisture that rusts metal parts, damages wooden items stored in the garage, and creates conditions for mold growth. If your garage connects to your home (most do), cold air seeps into living spaces, forcing your furnace to work overtime.

**Need weather stripping & seals in Arlington today?** Call (857) 371-3690. we cover same-day service across the area.

What We Replace and Why

Quality weather stripping comes in several materials. Rubber and vinyl are most common and affordable. They resist temperature swings well and last longer than foam. Silicone seals cost more upfront but outlast rubber by several years, making them smart for homes planning to stay put.

The bottom seal is typically a rubber or vinyl extrusion that slides into a track at the door's base. When it wears, water and cold air bypass it entirely. Threshold seals sit on the garage floor and create a barrier where the door meets concrete. Side seals line the vertical edges and prevent lateral drafts.

Garage Door Arlington replaces all three types and tests the fit to ensure proper contact and closure. An improper seal leaves gaps that defeat the purpose. We also check your door's alignment, since a warped frame can prevent seals from sealing tightly no matter how new they are.

DIY vs. Professional Replacement

You can buy weather stripping online and install it yourself. Basic kits run $50 to $150. If you're handy and your door is in good alignment, DIY works. However, most homeowners underestimate the difficulty. Removing old sealant, cleaning the frame, measuring correctly, and ensuring a tight seal require precision.

A professional handles the estimate, removal, measurement, installation, and testing in one visit. The cost typically ranges from $200 to $400 depending on seal type and door condition. For that price, you get warranty coverage, guaranteed performance, and peace of mind. If alignment issues exist, we catch and correct them before installing new seals.

Learn more about garage door spring repair) to understand how misalignment can affect multiple components.

When to Call for Service

Don't wait for winter to arrive. Spring and early fall are ideal seasons to inspect and replace worn weather stripping. You'll feel the difference immediately as your heating or cooling system works less hard.

Signs you need service soon: - Seals cracked or peeling visibly, Cold drafts when door is closed, Water pooling inside after rain, Visible daylight around the frame edges

Schedule a free quote today) or call (857) 371-3690 to arrange same-day or next-day service. We'll inspect your seals, explain what needs replacing, and provide a cost estimate with no pressure.

Check our full range of maintenance services) to learn what else protects your door long-term.

Frequent Questions About Weather Stripping and Seals

How long do garage door seals last?

Weather stripping typically lasts 5 to 8 years in New England climates. Rubber and vinyl degrade faster in extreme temperature swings and direct sunlight. Silicone seals can last 10 to 12 years with minimal maintenance. Annual inspection helps catch wear before seals fail completely.

Can worn weather stripping damage my garage door?

Yes. Moisture entering through failed seals corrodes hinges, springs, and hardware. Water can also warp wooden doors or rust steel panels. Replacing seals early prevents costlier repairs down the road. This is why maintenance matters more than most homeowners realize.

What's the difference between a bottom seal and threshold?

A bottom seal is the extrusion at the very bottom of the door panel that seals against the threshold. The threshold is the horizontal piece on the garage floor where the door meets concrete. Together they create a watertight, airtight seal when the door closes completely.

Will new weather stripping reduce my energy bills?

Absolutely. A properly sealed door eliminates drafts that force your heating and cooling systems to compensate. Many homeowners report 10 to 15 percent reductions in seasonal utility costs. Savings grow if your garage connects to living spaces or if you heat/cool it regularly.

How do I know if my door is properly sealed?

Close the door and look for daylight gaps around all edges. Run your hand slowly around the frame on a breezy day to feel for air movement. Water pooling after rain or moisture stains on the frame also signal poor sealing. A professional inspection confirms whether seals are failing.

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