Replace gaskets when they show visible cracks, when water seeps in, or when mice find their way inside. Material cost: $50-$200 per door. Time: 1-2 hours per door for DIY install. Buy bulk EPDM rubber gasket material from a container parts supplier; standard household weather-stripping doesn't fit.
UV degrades rubber over years. Cold makes them brittle. Paint dripping in during repaint contaminates the material. Eventually they crack, tear, or compress permanently.
Visible cracks running along the gasket. Water on the floor after rain. Mice or insects inside. Doors no longer seal with light pressure. Light visible through the door seam in daylight.
Standard household weather-stripping doesn't fit container door grooves. Order EPDM container gasket from a container parts supplier. Cost: $50-$120 per door's worth of material.
Pry old gasket out of the groove with a flat-bladed screwdriver. Clean the groove thoroughly — scrape out paint, dirt, rust flakes. Vacuum.
Cut new gasket to length (slightly long, then trim). Press into the groove starting at one corner. Work around the perimeter. Some installs use rubber cement on the corners for security.
Close the door. Should compress the gasket but not require force. Test in light rain or with a hose. Adjust if water gets through.
Maintenance questions vary by climate, age, condition, and use. Tell us your situation — we'll walk through what's normal, what needs attention, and what can wait. Our family business has been doing this for 25 years; we've seen what works long-term.
Call (845) 343-0700(845) 343-0700
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