How to Stop Cold Air from Pouring Under Your Garage Door Until Repairs Arrive

Winter drafts can make your garage freezing and lower your home’s heating efficiency. With the repair company unavailable until after New Year, you need temporary solutions to keep the cold out. Fortunately, you can take simple, do-it-yourself steps to minimize drafts and stay warmer.

Locate the Drafts First

Start by identifying exactly where cold air enters. Check the bottom, sides, and top of the door for gaps or worn seals. Shine a flashlight or hold a candle near edges—if the flame flickers or light escapes, you’ve found a problem. Measure the gaps and inspect the door for warping or misalignment. Knowing the source helps target your fixes effectively.

Apply Temporary Weatherstripping Tape

Weatherstripping tape seals small gaps along the bottom edge. Cut it to fit and press it firmly. This simple solution reduces drafts immediately. Check it regularly, as moisture and temperature changes can wear it down.

Make a DIY Draft Stopper

Use pool noodles or pipe insulation to block the bottom gap. Cut to width, slice lengthwise, and fit under the door. Secure with duct tape or zip ties. This inexpensive method works well if the gap is uniform and uses materials you might already have.

Use Old Rugs or Towels

Roll up rugs, towels, or blankets and place them along the door’s bottom edge. Adjust or add layers to cover cold spots. While not perfect, this method quickly reduces airflow and is easy to adjust.

Build a Cardboard or Plywood Threshold

For a sturdier solution, cut cardboard or plywood to fit the gap and attach it to the floor with heavy-duty tape. This blocks drafts more effectively than fabric alone. Ensure materials can handle moisture until professional repairs arrive.

Hang Plastic Sheeting or a Tarp

Create an interior windbreak by hanging plastic or a tarp from ceiling to floor behind the garage door. Secure the top with hooks or nails, and weigh the bottom down. This adds insulation, especially useful if your garage is also a workshop or storage area.

Seal Side and Top Gaps

Use foam strips along door edges and secure with painter’s tape. Press the foam against the door when closed. This temporary seal reduces drafts from the sides and top until permanent repairs are made.

Insulate the Garage Door Panels

Cut foam board or reflective wrap to fit inside the panels. Attach with tape or adhesive. Adding insulation keeps cold out and warmth in, boosting energy efficiency with minimal effort.

Use a Space Heater Safely

If using a space heater, place it on a stable, non-flammable surface. Keep it away from combustible materials. Choose one with automatic shut-off, and never leave it unattended. Space heaters provide warmth, but safety is critical.

Protect Your Indoor Heat

Seal the door between the garage and your home. Use a door draft stopper or weatherstripping. Add a heavy curtain or blanket for extra insulation. This prevents garage drafts from chilling your living space and reduces heating costs.

Patch a Damaged Bottom Seal

If the bottom seal is cracked or crumbling, apply duct tape or adhesive sealant as a temporary patch. For a more durable fix, replace the seal yourself using screws or adhesive, if available. This holds off cold air until the professionals arrive.

Prepare for Professional Repairs

Temporary fixes help, but call a repair company as soon as possible. Ask about parts, costs, warranties, and availability. Prepare details about the door’s issues so the technician can arrive ready, ensuring a proper and lasting repair.