Sealing gaps around doors and windows with weatherstripping can make your home feel warmer and save you a bundle on your energy bills. However, choosing the right type can be overwhelming.
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Our guide explains the different types of weatherstripping, helps you select the right materials, and provides proper installation techniques to keep your home cozy all year round.
Weather sealing acts as a barrier against drafts, moisture, dust, and noise, helping to maintain a consistent indoor temperature and improve overall energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, air sealing doors and windows can reduce heating and cooling costs by more than 20%. Beyond the financial benefits, weatherstripping enhances your home&#;s comfort with these improvements:
These benefits not only make your living space more enjoyable but also contribute to a healthier indoor environment by reducing allergens and pollutants that might otherwise enter through gaps and cracks.
Several weatherstripping materials are available, each with its own advantages and applications. Here&#;s a breakdown of the most common weatherstripping options and the best ways to use them.
V strip, also known as tension seal, is a durable plastic or metal strip folded into a &#;V&#; shape that springs open to bridge gaps. This type of weatherstripping is highly effective and long-lasting, making it a popular choice for many homeowners. It&#;s ideal for sealing the sides of double-hung and sliding windows, as well as the tops and sides of doors.
Felt weatherstripping is sold in rolls and is one of the most economical options available. It can be plain or reinforced with a pliable metal strip for added durability. While inexpensive, felt typically has a shorter lifespan compared to other materials, usually lasting only a year or two. This weatherstripping is ideal for sealing the sides of double-hung and sliding windows, as well as the tops and sides of doors.
Foam tape is made from open or closed-cell foam or EPDM rubber with an adhesive backing. This versatile weatherstripping is available in various widths and thicknesses, making it ideal for sealing irregular-sized cracks, particularly in window sashes and door frames.
Tubular weatherstripping is an effective air barrier made of rubber, vinyl, or silicone. It often features narrow sponge rubber or vinyl tubing attached to a wood or metal mounting strip. Silicone versions are typically inserted into milled grooves for a seamless appearance. This option works well in high-use areas like door bottoms and window sashes that require a durable, flexible seal.
Selecting the right weatherstripping material for your upgrading helps ensure the best performance and longevity. Consider factors such as location, frequency of use, and climate to make the best choice.
Depending on the extent of their project, many homeowners can complete weatherstripping in just one weekend. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to weatherstrip your home.
Doors are one of the most common sources of drafts in homes. Learning to weatherstrip your doors can significantly reduce energy loss by sealing door gaps. You can achieve this by adding door sweeps to the bottom or upgrading seals on the sides and top of doors. The guide below provides instructions on how to complete each task.
1. Measure the width of your door.
2. Cut the door sweep to fit if necessary.
3. Position the sweep against the bottom of the door, ensuring it makes contact with the threshold.
4. Mark screw holes and pre-drill if needed.
5. Secure the sweep with screws, making sure it doesn&#;t interfere with door operation.
Depending on the type of window installed, different weatherstripping techniques are needed. Here is an overview of how to weatherstrip double-hung and sliding windows.
For double-hung windows, focus on sealing the areas where the sashes meet the frame and each other.
Sliding windows require a slightly different approach.
Older homes present specific challenges for weatherstripping due to their historic windows and doors. These older windows and doors often have irregular shapes, worn wood, and delicate components that make it difficult to use standard weatherstripping solutions. Additionally, it&#;s crucial to preserve the original appearance to maintain the home&#;s historic integrity. Here are some weatherstripping tips specific to older homes.
Weatherstripping needs can vary with the seasons, and taking a proactive approach can help maintain your home&#;s efficiency year-round.
Even with careful installation, you may encounter some issues with your weatherstripping over time. Here are some common problems and solutions:
If you notice persistent drafts after installation, take these steps:
If doors or windows become difficult to open or close after weatherstripping, do this:
Most homeowners can do basic weatherstripping on their own. However, professional installation may be worth the investment for complex situations or historic homes.
Professional weatherstripping offers several advantages, including expert material selection, efficient and precise application, and often a warranty on the work performed. Professionals bring specialized knowledge to ensure the right type of weatherstripping is used for each area of your home, maximizing energy efficiency.
This option typically comes with a higher upfront cost compared to DIY methods. Additionally, you may have less flexibility in scheduling the work and less hands-on involvement in the process, which some homeowners prefer.
Properly maintaining your weatherstripping can extend its lifespan and ensure it stays effective. Below are some tips on caring for your weatherstripping and recognizing when it&#;s time for a replacement.
Proper weatherstripping reduces your energy costs and makes your home more comfortable and eco-friendly. Keep in mind that weatherstripping requires ongoing maintenance. Regular inspections and timely replacements will ensure your home remains well-sealed against the elements for years to come.
Have you ever walked into your garage and felt like you were in a sauna or a freezer because of the weather? Or has your energy bill been going up lately because you cannot get your house to stay warm or cool? Well, you might have missed a house comfort and energy-saving hero: garage door weatherstripping. Yes, that is right. That strip of material lining the edges of your garage door is more than just a finishing touch. Additionally, getting the right weatherstripping material for your garage door can make a difference.
This blog will guide you on how to pick the best materials to use for garage door weatherstripping. Whether you live in a place with scorching summers, cold winters, or both, this will help you make the best choice. Let us get started.
What Is the Purpose of Garage Door Weatherstripping?
Garage door weatherstripping is about sealing the edges and moving parts of garage doors with specific materials. It keeps out air, water, dust, and bugs from getting in. For the most part, it helps keep the garage dry, clean, and safe. It also saves energy by keeping indoor air from escaping, which cuts down on utility bills. In a general sense, it protects everything inside the garage from damage and wear. This simple step makes a big difference in both protecting your belongings and making your home more energy-efficient.
The Best Materials for Garage Door Weatherstripping
When weatherstripping your garage, you can choose among different materials. Each has its properties and works best with certain garage door types and situations. Listed below are the best materials used in garage door weatherstripping:
Rubber
Many use rubber for garage door weatherstripping because it is durable and flexible. It can fit on irregular surfaces and does a great job of keeping air and water out. EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubber, in particular, is very resistant to UV rays and changes in temperature.
Pros: It is great for a lot of locations because rubber weather stripping stops drafts well. Often, it comes in self-adhesive strips for a quick DIY project, making installation a breeze.
Cons: Rubber can break down over time, especially in cold temperatures or when it comes in contact with oils and other substances. That could mean frequent garage weather stripping replacements.
For more Automotive Weatherstrips Manufacturerinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.
Vinyl
Vinyl is a man-made material that is strong and does not easily get damaged by water or wear. This material makes it another popular choice for weatherstripping.
Advantages: It works well in many temperature ranges and is especially resistant to water, perfect for areas where it is humid. Also, vinyl weather stripping is durable and can last for a few years before it needs to be replaced.
Disadvantages: It is less durable than rubber or silicone. Vinyl can become less flexible in intense cold weather, which could make it less useful as a seal.
Silicone
This material stands out when it comes to durability and effectiveness in harsh weather.
Pros: Silicone weather stripping stays flexible and seals well over time, even when the temperature changes and UV light hits it. It works very well as a shield against air and water getting in.
Cons: It is usually more expensive than rubber or vinyl. Also, it may need to be installed by a professional to get the best fit.
Foam (Closed Cell)
This material, often made from polyethylene or polyurethane, is effective and affordable when it comes to sealing garage doors.
Advantages: It is easy to install in a variety of gaps and spaces because it is light and flexible. This material also provides good insulation for your garage.
Disadvantages: It depends on the type of foam weather stripping you use. Some types may compress or break down faster than others, meaning you will need to change them more often.
Felt
Felt, usually made from wool or polyester fiber, is one of the oldest materials used for weatherstripping. You often see this material in older homes, which gives them a traditional look.
Pros: Felt is cost-effective and easy to install, making it a good option for budget-conscious homeowners. It comes in different thicknesses and densities and can be useful for stopping drafts.
Cons: It is not as durable or resistant to weather as some other materials. Felt might not be the best choice for places with extreme weather.
Choosing the Right Weather Strip Material
These factors should help you choose the best weatherstripping material for your needs:
Consider Your Climate
The weather where you live is one of the most important things to think about when choosing the best material. Certain materials work better in different weather, so choose one that can handle the local temperature.
In Cold Climates: When it comes to extreme temperatures, silicone weather stripping is more durable and forms a tighter seal. On the other hand, rubber will crack and lose its flexibility in very cold weather.
For Hot and Dry Climates: Vinyl weather stripping is long-lasting and does not absorb water. They are great for use in hot, dry places and can stand up to both direct sunlight and sudden rainstorms.
In Coastal or High Humidity Areas: Silicone is good for homes near the coast or places that are prone to have a lot of dampness.
Understand Your Garage Door Type
The weatherstripping material you choose may also depend on the type of garage door you have. Note that some materials might stick to metal doors better than others might stick to wooden or fiberglass doors better.
For Metal Doors: Rubber and vinyl weather stripping can make a good seal for metal doors when it comes to flexibility and sturdiness. Silicone is also a good choice because it seals better than other materials.
On Wooden Doors: Installing foam or felt weather stripping on wooden doors is easy to install and affordable. However, silicone or high-quality rubber might be better for a longer-lasting answer, even though they cost more.
Budget and Longevity
Your budget and personal preferences are very important in making the final decision. Remember, silicone works best in a wide range of weather and regions, but its higher price point might not be affordable for everyone. Vinyl, foam, and rubber, on the other hand, are popular choices among homes because they are both cheap and effective.
Choosing the right material for garage door weatherstripping is an important decision that helps keep your home comfortable and saves energy. If you are not sure what is best for you, it is best to ask a garage door professional. A pro will help you choose the right material for your garage door and install it properly, saving you time and money.
Are your energy bills going up because of drafts around your garage door? Do not stress. Titan Garage Doors NE is here to help anyone in the Omaha area looking for expert garage door services. Our licensed team offers reliable garage door repair, including expert weather stripping replacement, installation, and maintenance. Do not let a faulty garage door disrupt your comfort and safety. Call us today for a free estimate.
For more information, please visit Automotive Weatherstrips.