How to fill gap above garage door architrave?

emjulie

This Is the architrave of my outside garage door. What should i use to fill the gap before I paint?

Fill with construction foam and top with gap filler?

MitchellMc

Hi @emjulie,

Does this wall get exposed to weather (rain or water running down it)? That’s important, because gaps like this can let water seep into the wall cavity if they’re not properly protected.

If the area is exposed, fillers alone (foam or gap filler) won’t be enough long-term. You’d really want to install flashing above the architrave to divert water away from the gap.

If it’s not exposed to weather, you’ve got a couple of simpler options:

• Install a small trim piece (like quad moulding) over the gap to cover it neatly, especially since the jamb sits proud of the wall.
• Or, use a foam backing rod (gap filler rod) and seal over it with a flexible exterior sealant like Sikaflex 11FC to create a durable, paintable finish.

Expanding foam alone isn’t ideal as a final solution, as it needs to be covered and sealed properly. Though you could use it to fill any larger voids.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell