top of page

Weatherstripping Information Guide: Types, Benefits, and How to Install

The cooler months in Pennsylvania can bring windy weather and chilly temperatures. Whether you live in an old, drafty home or new construction, this can be a beneficial tool to help you save money and stay warm. We’ve put together a helpful guide to help you install weatherstripping and eliminate the draft. Don’t want to handle this yourself? Schedule your seasonal maintenance package or schedule your weatherstripping service with us all online!



What is Weatherstripping?

Weatherstripping is a way to seal around doors and windows to fill gaps that can lead to drafts and moisture entering your home. Weatherstripping in used to seal non-stationary features in your home in replace of caulk. 


Why Weatherstrip?

Weatherstripping seals off your home keeping dust, drafts, moisture and more from entering and effecting your home’s interior. By adding weatherstripping, you can cut down on your energy usage saving you money in the long run on heating and cooling bills. We tend to think about the colder temperatures when we talk about weatherstripping, but this can be useful in the summer months to keep cool air from slipping through the cracks, literally.


Don’t think your home needs this? Let’s check! There are several ways you can check to see if your home needs weatherstripping, but here’s the easiest at-home solution. Wait until the sun goes down, then grab a friend or family member and a flashlight. Have one person go outside with the flashlight and close the door behind them. Then, have them shine the light around the door and surrounding areas. If light shines in, that area needs weatherstripping.


Choose Your Weatherstripping

There are many different options when selecting which weatherstripping to use for your home. We’ve included a list of the popular types of weather stripping, but we recommend visiting the US Department of Energy’s website for a more comprehensive guide. (https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/weatherstripping)

  • V Strip/Tension Seal: This long-lasting, highly effective material is one of the most popular choices. A V strip, or tension seal, is often made from vinyl, aluminum, or plastic strip. This material is bent in the middle to form a V shape that fits the inside edges of a door frame or window. These can come with adhesive backing making installation seamless.

  • Felt: This material is inexpensive and an easy option, but less durable that a v strip. Felt can be used on its own or with a metal strip. If you have a door jamb, felt can be a useful solution. However, felt is not ideal in high moisture conditions. Keep that in mind when making your decision.

  • Foam Tape: Similar to felt, foam tape is a less durable option that does not perform well in high moisture conditions. However, with adhesive backing included, foam is an easy material to install.

  • Rubber Tubing or Tubular: These can have a variety of different names and are made from rubber, vinyl, or silicone. These are more durable and flexible than foam or felt, but have a very similar installation process. If you experience a lot of moisture, these can provide waterproofing as well.


Tools Needed

Before starting, ensure you have your tools nearby. We recommend the following:

  • Cleaning Supplies

  • Screwdriver/Screws (if using weatherstripping with screw in option)

  • Hammer/Nails (if using weatherstripping with nail in option)

  • Tape Measure

  • Utility Knife/Scissors

  • Desired Weatherstripping Material


How to Install

If you have existing weatherstripping, be sure to remove that prior to starting this process. Ensure all rough spots are sanded down and remove any nails or screws remaining.


  1. Start by cleaning the surface. Wipe dust and debris off with a damp cloth. Make sure to repair any damage on the door and frame and ensure the door is aligned properly.

  2. Accurately measure the length of the gap that needs sealed and cut weatherstripping accordingly. Ahead of sealing or removing the adhesive back, check to make sure it fits properly.

  3. Your installation will vary depending on which material you decide on, so be sure to read the provided instructions. If you are using an adhesive back, peel off the back and carefully stick the material on the desired location. If you’re using a nail or screw in option, place the nails or screws every few inches and secure to the desire location.

  4. After installation, ensure your door can easily move and the seal is working correctly.

  5. There you have it! Now you can enjoy the colder temperature without worrying about unwanted drafts. Weatherstripping should be replaced every few years, so make sure to keep an eye on yours. If you noticed cracks or warped areas, it’s time to replace it. Just make sure to do this before the temperatures get too low. As always, we’re here to do the hard work for you! Schedule your service online or give us a call.


 

Ready to get started but not sure where to begin? Westwood is here to assist you every step of the way! Whether you need a little help or a lot, our expert technicians are ready to ensure your home is perfectly prepared for the season. Just schedule a service with us, and we'll take care of the rest!



Sources: 

Comments


bottom of page