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Drafts around doors can lead to unwanted energy loss as air escapes or enters your home. The culprit is often a worn-out weather seal, which can result in significant energy wastage. Fortunately, there’s a simple and cost-effective solution: installing weatherstripping. In this two-part series, we’ll explore two methods for sealing your doors to combat drafts and help you save on energy costs.
Door Weatherstripping: Door Jamb Weatherstrip Kit
For our first door, we’ll use a door jamb weatherstrip kit, consisting of a tubing attached to a metal flange. This tubing compresses against a closed door to create an effective seal. The kit includes two long side pieces and a shorter piece for the top of the door. Follow these steps for installation:
Step 1: Clean the Area
While vertical surfaces don’t usually accumulate much dirt, it’s a good practice to clean the door frame and edges.
Step 2: Measure the Latch Side of the Door Frame
Measure from the top corner of the door frame down to the top of the door threshold. Cut one of the long legs from the kit to match this length. If you plan to add a door sweep, consider this while measuring and adjust the weatherstripping accordingly.
Step 3: Screw the Latch-Side Strip into Place
With the door closed, hold the tubing of the flange against the door and screw it into place. The screw holes are designed as slots to allow for adjustments if needed.
Step 4: Screw the Hinge-Side Strip into Place
Repeat steps 2 and 3 for the other side of the door, measuring, cutting, and securing the strip in place against the closed door.
Step 5: Attach the Top Strip
Measure the distance between the two long strips and cut the shorter strip to match. Mount it along the top of the door frame using the screws and slotted holes.
Step 6: Test for Snugness
Open and close the door several times, ensuring it closes, latches, and locks correctly. If adjustments are needed, loosen the screws on the side causing issues, move the weatherstripping slightly away from the door, and retighten the screws.
Door Weatherstripping: Self-Adhesive Foam Weatherstripping
For the second door, we’ll install self-adhesive foam weatherstripping on the door frame to seal any gaps. This type of weatherstripping is easy to install and resistant to water absorption. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Determine the Foam Thickness
Assess the gaps around your door to determine the required foam thickness. We recommend starting with a 3/16″ thick foam, but adjust as needed for larger or smaller gaps.
Step 2: Prepare the Surface
Clean the door frame to ensure proper adhesion of the self-adhesive weatherstripping.
Step 3: Peel and Stick
Peel off the paper backing and carefully press the foam into place. Start on one side of the door frame, cut the strip at the end, and proceed to the other side and the top. Avoid pulling or stretching the foam as you apply it.
Step 4: Test for Snugness
Check the door’s operation to ensure it closes, latches, and locks without issues. If necessary, consider thinner foam for areas with smaller or no gaps, or thicker foam if gaps remain visible.
With colder weather approaching, taking steps to seal your doors with weatherstripping not only keeps your home cozy for the fall but also helps you save on energy costs.
Original Article: Eliminating Drafts Part 1: How To Weatherstrip Your Doors
