Installing weather stripping on doors is an easy and affordable way to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Properly installed weather stripping creates a tight seal around your doors to prevent drafts, moisture, noise, dust and pests from entering your home. This helps lower energy costs by reducing heat loss in winter and cooling loss in summer. Weather stripping can make a big difference in keeping your home comfortable.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about installing weather stripping on doors, including the supplies you’ll need, types of weather stripping, how to measure your doors, removal of old weather stripping if present, and a step-by-step installation process. With the right materials and a little time, you can easily add effective weather stripping to the doors in your home.
Supplies Needed
Installing weather stripping on doors only requires a few basic supplies:
- Weather stripping designed for doors. Options include vinyl, foam, felt, rubber, silicone, metal and more. Select the type best suited for your door material and home’s needs.
- Tape measure
- Utility knife
- Screwdriver
- Caulk and caulk gun (if needed)
- Safety equipment like gloves, glasses and mask (optional)
Purchase high quality weather stripping from home improvement stores or online retailers. Measure each door prior to buying materials to ensure you get the appropriate length and style. Most weather stripping options are inexpensive, easy to work with, and readily available.
Types of Weather Stripping
Many types of weather stripping can seal the gaps and cracks around doors. Consider where you plan to install the weather stripping and your home’s needs when selecting the best option:
Foam Tape
Foam tape has an adhesive backing so it adheres directly to the door frame. It compresses easily to form a tight seal. Foam tape comes in various widths and can work well on frame doors.
Vinyl Strips
Flexible vinyl strips insert into a slot in the door jamb. They are easy to install and provide good protection. Vinyl weather stripping lasts longer than foam options.
Interlocking Metal
Interlocking metal strips fit into grooves on the door and frame. The two parts connect to form a seal. Interlocking metal works well for sliding doors.
Rubber Seals
Rubber seals are durable and flexible. Adhesive-backed options stick directly to the frame, while other types fit into a slot or groove. Rubber is an excellent material for sealing around doors.
Silicone Tubing
Silicone tubing can be stretched and compressed to fit into small spaces. It adheres to surfaces and withstands temperature extremes. Silicone weather stripping works well on uneven gaps.
Choose the weather stripping style that best suits your situation. Talk to an expert at your local home improvement store for recommendations on the ideal product for your doors.
How to Measure Doors for Weather Stripping
Measuring door frames accurately ensures you purchase enough weather stripping materials. Follow these steps to measure for door weather stripping:
1. Determine the Location
Figure out where on the door or frame the weather stripping will be installed. Most options fit around the stop molding, which is the removable trim that separates the door jamb from the interior space.
2. Measure Width
Measure across the width of where you plan to put the weather stripping. For doors, this is usually along the top and sides. Record the width in inches.
3. Measure Height
Measure the height of the weather stripping installation area on each side of the door frame. Record these measurements in inches.
4. Total the Length
Add together the width and height measurements to determine the total length of weather stripping needed for each door.
Measure carefully and round up to the nearest inch when calculating total length. Having extra weather stripping is better than not having enough. Make notes on the measurements for each door to ensure you purchase adequate materials.
Removing Old Weather Stripping
If a door already has weather stripping, remove it prior to installing the new materials:
- Use a flat head screwdriver to gently pry up any sections of weather stripping adhered to the frame. Slowly work around the perimeter to detach it.
- For weather stripping set into grooves or channels, use needle-nose pliers and the screwdriver to pull it free from the frame. Take care not to damage the surface.
- Use a utility knife to cut away any stubborn remnants left behind by old caulk or adhesive.
- Clean the channel or groove so new weather stripping can be installed into a smooth surface. Use a vacuum and towel to remove debris.
- Inspect the door jamb for damage. Make repairs if needed to ensure it provides a solid surface for attaching new weather stripping.
Thoroughly removing old weather stripping helps the new materials create an effective barrier against outdoor elements. Take time to fully clear away any remaining fragments before moving on to installation.
How to Install Weather Stripping on Doors
Once you have your supplies and measurements, follow these steps to properly install weather stripping on doors:
Foam Tape Weather Stripping
- Thoroughly clean the installation area with rubbing alcohol to remove dirt and oils. Let dry completely.
- Measure each section and cut foam tape to length with utility knife.
- Remove adhesive backing and press foam tape firmly onto door frame. Smooth down with hand to secure.
- Do not stretch the foam tape during application. Ensure it lays flat for optimal compression.
- Apply foam tape strips to the top and sides of the frame. Use on stop molding and threshold as needed.
- Allow adhesive to fully cure for 24 hours before using door. Check for gaps and reapply if tape loosens over time.
Vinyl Weather Stripping
- Clean channel along frame where vinyl strip will be placed. Ensure it is free of debris.
- Measure track and cut vinyl strips to appropriate length with scissors.
- Starting at one end, press vinyl into channel using flat head screwdriver. Work along entire length, keeping strip straight.
- Cut small slits in vinyl at corners for easier bending. Avoid kinks and overlap corner joints.
- Use screwdriver to adjust vinyl depth so it sits flush or slightly recessed in channel.
- Ensure vinyl makes continuous contact with door edge along entire perimeter when closed.
Interlocking Metal Weather Stripping
- Check fit and cut metal strips to size. Leave 1/4 inch extra length for adjustment.
- Starting at one end, press frame side of interlocking metal into channel around door casing using flat head screwdriver.
- Align door side metal with frame piece and firmly press into place on door stop using screwdriver.
- Install metal stripping along entire width and height of door. Cut small slits at corners for easier bending.
- Carefully join ends together for an impermeable seal. Do not overlap stripped ends.
- Adjust metal depth until pieces fit snugly together when door is closed.
Bulb Rubber Weather Stripping
- Thoroughly clean channel along frame where rubber will be placed. Ensure it is free of debris.
- Measure track and cut rubber strips to appropriate length with sharp scissors.
- Starting at one end, use a screwdriver to gently press bulb rubber into channel around perimeter of door casing.
- Work slowly around corners, bending rubber carefully to avoid tearing. Do not stretch or twist the rubber.
- Apply rubber until it lays flat within the channel along entire door opening. Trim excess.
- Spray rubber with silicone lubricant to allow easy compression. Ensure rubber makes contact with door edge when closed.
Once installed correctly, quality weather stripping will provide superior protection against outdoor elements. Inspect seals periodically and make adjustments as needed to maintain a tight closure. Proper weather stripping helps make your home more comfortable and energy efficient.
Tips for Effective Weather Stripping
Follow these tips to ensure your newly installed weather stripping optimally seals gaps and cracks around doors:
- Apply to clean, dry surfaces so adhesive sticks properly. Clean with rubbing alcohol and let dry prior to installation.
- Measure carefully and allow strips to be slightly longer than frame area for easier adjustment.
- Do not stretch or twist weather stripping during application. Install smoothly and evenly.
- Use a utility knife to notch strips at corner joints for easier bending, then join ends neatly.
- Press weather stripping firmly into place with a screwdriver to improve adhesion to the frame.
- Spray rubber weather stripping with silicone lubricant so it compresses easily each time the door closes.
- Make sure weather stripping evenly contacts door edge along entire perimeter when closed.
- Check for light visible through cracks and reapply weather stripping as needed to seal gaps.
Taking your time to properly apply quality weather stripping materials will keep your doors protected from the elements for years to come.
Troubleshooting Weather Stripping Issues
While weather stripping is generally easy to install, you may encounter a few issues. Here are some common problems and solutions:
Weather Stripping Not Adhering
- Clean the surface thoroughly with rubbing alcohol before applying adhesive-backed weather stripping. Oils and debris can prevent proper adhesion.
- For compression-fit products like rubber and vinyl, ensure the channel is clean before installing. Use a vacuum and towel to remove dust buildup so weather stripping sits smoothly.
- Apply firm, even pressure along the entire length of adhesive-backed weather stripping. Slowly work from one end to the other smoothing out any bubbles or gaps.
Gaps Around Weather Stripping
- Measure each door and purchase adequate yardage with a few extra inches to account for potential adjustments. Avoid stretching strips during installation.
- Use a utility knife to notch weather stripping at corner joints so it bends easily without leaving gaps.
- Check for tight seal when door is closed. Use a screwdriver to gently press weather stripping further into channel if gaps are present between door and frame.
Weather Stripping Loosens Over Time
- For adhesive-backed products, carefully pull up and reapply using the methods described above. Clean surface thoroughly before reinstalling.
- Replacement may be needed if compression-fit weather stripping becomes loose. With use, rubber and vinyl can wear out over time.
- Make sure door and frame are properly aligned. Weather stripping will lose effectiveness if door sagging widens gaps and cracks.
With proper installation and periodic maintenance, quality weather stripping should seal doors effectively for many years. Address any issues promptly to prevent cold or hot outdoor air from entering your home.
How to Install Weather Stripping on a Door FAQs
Installing weather stripping on doors is a straightforward process, but many homeowners have additional questions. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
What kind of weather stripping is best for exterior doors?
For exterior doors, look for durable materials like interlocking metal, silicone, rubber, or rigid vinyl that can withstand temperature extremes, sun exposure, and compression. Choose products rated for exterior use.
Where should I apply weather stripping on a door?
Apply weather stripping along the stop molding around the entire perimeter of the door frame. You can also use threshold seals for the door bottom. Treat sliding doors similarly by applying to the jamb and head.
How do I know if I need to replace weather stripping?
Look for signs of damage like brittleness, cracks, and gaps anywhere along weather stripping. Also inspect for light visible through the door jamb or feelings of air drafts, which indicate a poor seal.
Does weather stripping stop noise?
Yes, weather stripping can help block exterior noise from entering through doors. Look for products made from denser materials like rubber or silicone rather than lower density foam. Proper application is key.
How long does weather stripping last?
With proper installation, quality weather stripping should last 5-10 years. Harsh weather, sun exposure, and heavy use can shorten lifespan. Check seals periodically and replace strips as soon as any deterioration becomes visible.
Can you paint over weather stripping?
Most weather stripping is installed with adhesive, so paint will not adhere well. It is not recommended to paint weather stripping, as this can impact effectiveness. Replace with new strips that match your color needs.
Installing new weather stripping is an easy DIY project that can make your doors more energy efficient. With the right materials and proper application, you can prevent costly air leaks and improve comfort in your home.
Conclusion
Installing quality weather stripping is an affordable and effective way to improve energy efficiency and comfort in your home. With the right supplies and a small time investment, you can easily add weather stripping around doors to prevent drafts, moisture, dust and other annoyances from impacting your living spaces. Carefully measure each door, remove any old weather stripping, and install materials like vinyl, rubber, foam or metal using the techniques described above. With proper application, weather stripping will provide superior protection against outdoor elements for years to come. Maintaining weather stripping and addressing any issues promptly will save energy and keep your family comfortable in both summer and winter.