Weather stripping is a material used to seal air leaks around movable building components like doors, windows, and garage doors to prevent drafts, water, and pests from entering the home. It improves comfort and energy efficiency, potentially saving 5% to 20% on energy bills.
Types of Weather Stripping
The best type of weather stripping depends on the application, location, and the size of the gap to be sealed.
| Type | Best Uses | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tension Seal (V-strip) | Tension Seal (V-strip) Inside the track of double-hung or sliding windows, top and sides of doors. Durable, effective, often invisible when installed, available in vinyl or metal. Installation can be tricky to get snug; metal versions require nailing and can increase resistance when opening/closing. | Durable, effective, often invisible when installed, available in vinyl or metal. | Installation can be tricky to get snug; metal versions require nailing and can increase resistance when opening/closing. |
| Felt | Around doors or windows (reinforced felt). | Inexpensive, easy to install. | Low durability, least effective, visible, not for use where exposed to moisture or friction. |
| Foam (Tape) | Top and bottom of window sashes, door frames, irregular cracks. | Extremely easy to install (self-adhesive), inexpensive, works well when compressed. | Foam (Tape) Top and bottom of window sashes, door frames, irregular cracks. Extremely easy to install (self-adhesive), inexpensive, works well when compressed. Durability varies, not ideal for high-wear areas, visible. |
| Reinforced Foam | Door or window stops, bottom of window sash/door. | Effective sealer, rigid, durable, effective against wind. | Difficult to install (must be sawed/nailed), very visible. |
| Door Sweep / Door Shoe | Bottom of doors. | Easy to install, effective for large gaps, adjustable for uneven thresholds, door shoes shed rain well. | Visible, can drag on carpet, door shoes require more difficult installation. |
| Tubular Rubber/Vinyl | Around doors or windows. | Effective air barrier, conforms to uneven places. | Self-stick versions can be challenging to install; visible. |
| Magnetic | Top and sides of doors/windows (similar to refrigerator gaskets). | Very effective air sealer, easy to install. | High cost. |
Installation
- Determine need: Use a "paper test" by closing a door or window on a piece of paper; if the paper slides easily, the seal is insufficient. You can also visually inspect for light leaks or feel for drafts.
- Surface preparation: Apply weather stripping to clean, dry surfaces. Remove old weather stripping and adhesive residue first.
- Application: Measure the area twice, cut to size, and apply the stripping snugly against both surfaces so it compresses when the door or window is shut.