A gap on one side of your garage door: what to check
A new gap can let in draughts, leaves or water, but the cause is not always the seal. Uneven movement, damaged components, a sloping floor or an installation problem can also leave a door sitting incorrectly. We’ll help you identify the cause before choosing a repair.
Our quote form opens on our main B&D website. For a fault, use the service or repair option in this guide; charges are confirmed separately.
First, check whether the door is safe to use
If the door is crooked, off its normal track, visibly damaged or suddenly heavy, stop operating it. Keep people and vehicles clear and arrange a professional inspection. Do not pull it level, loosen brackets, adjust cables or increase opener force to press it against the floor.
An opener that still runs does not prove the springs, cables or door are sound. Avoid releasing an open or unbalanced door, because it may fall when disengaged. Describe the position and symptoms when you call so the technician can plan the visit.
Record the gap without adjusting the door
If the door is already safely closed and stationary, look from a safe position and take photographs. Note whether the gap is at the bottom corner, along the side guide or across the top. Mention whether it appeared suddenly, followed an impact or has always been present.
| What you notice | What needs assessment |
|---|---|
| Split or flattened bottom seal with otherwise even movement | Correct replacement seal and floor contact |
| One corner higher than the other | Door balance, lifting components, alignment and floor slope |
| Gap along a side guide | Guide position, curtain/panel condition and the installation |
| Water despite apparently even seal contact | Floor falls, drainage and the limits of the weatherseal |
| Gap after an impact or storm | Door, guides, fixings and any rated-system damage |
These are assessment areas, not diagnoses. Several faults can create the same visible gap.
Match the repair to the cause
A compatible seal may help where the old one is worn. It cannot correct a door that is out of balance or a damaged track. Adding a thick universal strip can introduce friction, interfere with movement or hide the original fault.
Floor slope also needs a model-specific solution. Some roller configurations allow manufactured tapers within limits; Roll-A-Door Secure does not allow a fixed or independent taper. We assess the opening before recommending a different door or floor treatment. Do not cut or alter the curtain yourself.
Understand what sealing can achieve
A bottom weatherseal helps restrict water, leaves and gaps at the floor. It does not make a garage floodproof or airtight. Perimeter seals, ventilation and any assessed bushfire requirements must be considered together. An ordinary brush strip is not a substitute for a tested BAL-Maze system.
Make the service enquiry useful
Have the door and opener model, photographs, approximate installation date and recent service or damage details ready. Ask for the inspection/call-out charge and a quote before repair work proceeds. A free new-door measure and quote is separate from repair charges.
Book a repair or read our seal options. We’ll explain whether the door needs adjustment, component replacement or a wider assessment.
Brochures and model guides
Use the guide for your actual model and supplied configuration. These references explain the specifications and conditions discussed above.
Talk to us about your garage
Tell us what you have now and what you want to improve. We’ll help you choose the right next step through our dealer network.
