Weather Stripping Buying Guide at Menards®

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The age-old adage, "Beware of little expenses, a small leak will sink a great ship," rings true in the context of home maintenance. Though your house isn't setting sail, tiny fissures and gaps can significantly impact your energy expenses. By sealing these minor cracks, you can drastically improve your energy efficiency and comfort.

As you read on, discover the numerous advantages of weather stripping, the recommended installation methods, and more.

Importance of Weather Stripping in Your Home

According to the Energy Star program initiated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, air leaks in residential spaces account for about 25% to 40% of energy loss associated with heating and cooling. While inflated energy bills may not always point directly to air leakages, it's prudent to investigate this possibility.

Due to the elements and everyday wear, older weather stripping tends to be less effective than newer options. To assess your existing seals, follow these steps:

• Inspect for cracks, missing pieces, or overall wear on your current stripping. Should you find significant damage, consider using a new type of weather stripping.
• Check for any gaps by attempting to push a piece of paper underneath your door or window – if it slips under easily, your weather stripping is likely due for replacement or reinforcement.
• Use a candle to check for breeze; if the flame flickers, you’ve identified a drafty spot.

After these checks, you can determine if weather stripping replacement is in order or if you need a comprehensive home evaluation. There might be other issues contributing to the heat loss in your household, in which case a licensed HVAC technician can provide invaluable assistance.

Expected Lifespan of Weather Stripping

The durability of your weather stripping can vary based on the type used and its application. Interlocking metal options offer the highest longevity, potentially lasting a lifetime when correctly installed. Other commonly used choices, like v-strips (tension seals) and tubular inserts, are relatively straightforward to install and typically endure for around five years. In contrast, less expensive alternatives—such as door sweeps, adhesives, felt, and select foam materials—are easy to apply but commonly last for just a few years, depending on the material used.

Additionally, wear and tear naturally varies; for instance, weather stripping on doors usually degrades faster than that on windows, owing to frequent usage.

Related Topic: Cold Weather Checklist: Strategies for Keeping the Cold at Bay

Choosing the Right Weather Stripping

If you're seeking the most durable and effective solution, interlocking metal seals frequently come out on top, although professional installation is advisable due to the precise alignment required. V-strips stand as a well-liked, user-friendly, and durable choice, while tubular varieties are effective yet often a bit more complex to install.

Ultimately, the best weather stripping for your home will hinge on your specific requirements and budget. For minor air leaks around doors or windows, a flexible installation like tape or felt might suffice.

Related Topic: Conducting a Home Inspection for Leaks and Drafty Areas

With competitive pricing and prompt delivery, I-ECO is eager to support you as your trusted supplier and partner.

Step-by-Step Guide to Weather Stripping a Door

Various weather stripping types exist, and while most share a similar installation approach, some variations might necessitate precise adjustments or professional assistance. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions prior to installation. Follow these basic steps for guidance:

1. Secure any loose hinges by tightening them, which will help accurately measure the gap between your door and the jamb, potentially resolving draft issues.

2. Remove any existing weather-stripping material. This can typically be accomplished using a pry bar or an adhesive remover. After letting the remover set for a period, use a putty knife to scrape off any residual adhesive and clean the area thoroughly.

3. Gauge the gap between the door and the jamb. Shut the door and measure the distance between the door, jamb, and doorstop. Make additional measurements along the sides and top.

4. Decide on the preferred weather stripping type and the necessary thickness to adequately fill the gap.

5. Should the material need to be trimmed (v-strips, foam, felt, certain door sweeps), do so using scissors, tin snips, or a hacksaw, based on the material. Begin with the installation of the longer sides.

6. With tubular weather stripping, install the seal around the exterior of the door where it meets the door jam. Secure the track to the outer jambs at the door's edge, utilizing adhesive or screws as needed. Begin with the longer side strips before measuring and cutting the shorter top strip to fit.

7. If your door features a manufactured groove for weather stripping, insert vinyl or metal v-strips with a tongue designed for pressing into this groove. If no groove exists, apply adhesive stripping (tape, foam, etc.) in the same region. Alternatively, consider cutting grooves with a dedicated tool, though professional assistance is advisable in such cases.

8. For basic door sweeps that are face-mounted, measure and trim to fit the interior face of the door, securing it using the provided screws where necessary. More complicated sweeps might require you to remove the door from its hinges or to install them in pre-cut groves.

9. Test the door’s functionality to ensure it closes correctly and check for any remaining gaps.

Are you weary of the cold making its way indoors? The professionals at Aire Serv can assist you in identifying additional sources of heat loss and energy inefficiency in your home. Whether your HVAC system is in need of repair or replacement, we are here to offer support. Contact us or arrange an appointment online to explore your options.