Insulation matters in winter: why seals make the difference

Insulating a garage door starts with the complete system
When insulating a garage door, the first thing people often look at is the door panel. A well-insulated panel is indeed an important basis for thermal performance. However, a sectional door has several connection points that affect the overall performance of the system.

There are four key zones where air and moisture can enter:

1. between the top section and the lintel;
2. between the bottom section and the floor;
3. along both sides of the door;
4. between the individual panels.

A well-insulated panel cannot perform to its full potential when these connections are not adequately sealed.

Energy efficiency is therefore not just about the insulation value of the panel, but about the performance of the complete door.

What are the effects of air leaks?
Air leaks may seem like a minor detail, but they can have noticeable consequences for a building or workspace.
A good seal helps to:

• limit heat loss and unwanted air infiltration;
• reduce drafts;
• keep rain and moisture out;
• better protect stored goods and materials;
• improve comfort in the space.

Seals are also important from a technical perspective. Their quality and design play a role in a door’s performance in areas including air permeability and watertightness.

Why high-quality seals are becoming increasingly important
The market is demanding ever-better thermal performance. Door panels are therefore becoming thicker and better insulated. But the better the panel performs, the more important it becomes to seal the connection points properly as well.

CE testing programmes have shown that the top of a sectional door can be a critical point for airtightness. Improved top seals, for example with multiple sealing lips, can help create a better seal between the door and the lintel.

This illustrates an important principle: the smallest details can have a major impact on a door’s performance.

The bottom seal: more than just a closure
The bottom seal plays an important role in closing the gap between the door and the floor. A good bottom seal helps keep cold air, water and dirt out. On automated doors, the bottom seal also plays a role in safety.

When the door encounters an obstacle while closing, the shape and flexibility of the bottom seal form part of the way the door responds. The right bottom seal must therefore be suitable for the door’s construction, application and intended use.

CE performance starts with the details
When a sectional door is developed, the complete system is considered. Panels, hardware, operator and seals work together to achieve the desired performance.

For seals, the following factors are among the most important:

• the right material for the application;
• suitable design;
• correct installation;
• sufficient durability;
• retention of shape and elasticity throughout the door’s service life.

A seal should therefore not only function properly when the door is new. After years of daily use, it is equally important that the seal continues to perform its function as effectively as possible.

A simple way to improve existing doors
For door manufacturers and installers, this offers a practical opportunity. Not every improvement to an existing door requires a major structural modification. Inspecting and, where necessary, replacing worn seals can help maintain a door’s performance.

For example: top seals, side seals, bottom seals and seals between the panels. Regularly check for wear, deformation and loss of elasticity. Replacing seals in good time can help maintain the performance of the complete door system.

Ready for winter?
Winter is a good time to make customers aware of the importance of a well-insulated and well-sealed door. Energy efficiency is not only about what is visible. The connections and sealing details also determine how well a door can keep heat in and cold air, wind and moisture out. A high-quality door panel forms the foundation. The right seals ensure that this foundation performs to its full potential.

Would you like to know more about seals, astragals or solutions for energy-efficient door systems?
Contact your FlexiForce representative.