Maintaining Your Brush Seal to Protect Against Pests & Drafts

A properly fitted garage door is your home’s first defence against unwanted guests, whether that’s insects, rodents, or cold air sneaking in at night. One simple but effective component that often goes unnoticed? The humble brush seal.

Maintaining your garage door brush seal prolongs the life of your door and creates a tight seal that keeps pests and drafts outside where they belong.

What Is a Brush Seal

Brush seals are flexible strips made up of dense synthetic bristles. They’re designed to line the sides, top, and sometimes bottom of your garage door, especially where there may be small gaps. While they’re not always included in standard installations, they’re a smart choice for many Australian homes, especially those prone to windblown debris or insect intrusions.

Properly maintained, these seals:

Reduce air leaks that lead to temperature fluctuations and energy loss.
Act as a barrier against cockroaches, spiders, rodents, and other pests.
Help prevent dust, leaves, and moisture from entering your garage.

Common Issues That Impact Brush Seal Performance

Even the most durable brush seal can wear down over time, particularly if your door is exposed to harsh weather or frequent use. Here are a few signs your seal might need attention:

Frayed bristles that no longer stand straight
Flattened or patchy areas where the brush no longer contacts the frame
Gaps around the door edges, especially along the sides
Debris stuck in the bristles, reducing flexibility

Maintaining your garage door brush seal regularly can help avoid these issues and keep your garage better protected year-round.

How To Maintain Your Garage Door Brush Seal

Like most B&D garage door upgrades, brush seals are low-maintenance but benefit from occasional care. Here’s what we recommend:

1. Clean It Every Season

Use a handheld vacuum or soft brush to remove dirt, cobwebs, or plant matter caught in the bristles. If there’s stubborn grime, a quick wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent will do the trick. Avoid high-pressure water, as it can weaken the adhesive or mounting track.

2. Inspect for Wear and Tear

Run your hand along the seal and look for fraying, bald spots, or signs of crushing. Bristles should bounce back and create even contact with the door frame. If they’ve lost their shape or density, it may be time for a replacement.

3. Test for Gaps

Close your garage door and stand inside on a sunny day. If you see light streaming in along the sides or top, your seal may not be doing its job. Alternatively, feel along the edges for cool drafts or dust build-up—clear signs your seal isn’t sealing properly.

4. Keep It Free From Obstructions

Make sure leaves, rocks, or hard-packed dirt aren’t preventing the brush from doing its job. Even a small twig can lift the bristles enough to let pests or drafts through.

When To Replace the Seal

Even with regular maintenance, brush seals don’t last forever. Most will need replacing every three to five years, depending on exposure to weather and usage. If your seal looks visibly worn or you’re noticing an increase in pests and drafts, don’t wait.

B&D’s garage door accessories range includes high-quality sealing options (including weather seals and brush strip upgrades) compatible with most B&D sectional and roller doors. Reach out to your local B&D dealer to find out which brush seal is best suited to your garage setup.

Why It’s Worth the Effort

Maintaining your garage door brush seal offers more than peace of mind. It contributes to:

A cleaner garage: Less dirt, dust, and moisture getting in.
Better energy efficiency: Especially if your garage is attached to living areas.
Improved pest control: Keeping everything from ants to mice at bay.

Plus, it helps preserve your garage door’s components, like the track and opener, from unnecessary wear caused by wind-blown debris or moisture.

FAQs

How long should a brush seal last?
With regular cleaning and gentle use, a high-quality brush seal can last up to five years. Environmental conditions and usage frequency may shorten this lifespan.
Can I install a brush seal myself?
While some homeowners may choose to DIY, we recommend contacting a B&D Accredited Dealer. They’ll ensure the seal is properly fitted for your specific door model and provide advice on other upgrades, like AutoLock™ or wind-rated doors.
What’s the difference between a brush seal and a rubber seal?
Brush seals offer more flexibility around uneven surfaces and are particularly good at deterring pests and drafts. Rubber seals, on the other hand, form a tighter closure along smooth, flat surfaces like the door’s bottom edge.

Whether you’re dealing with unwanted draughts or looking to keep out creepy crawlies, maintaining your garage door brush seal is an easy win. Want help inspecting or replacing your seal? Contact your local B&D dealer for expert advice and trusted solutions.