?
Weather Stripping Windows & Doors
If cold air is seeping into your home around doors and windows, you need to apply weather stripping. Weather stripping helps conserve energy, lowers your utility bills and is a fairly simple do-it-yourself project.
Head to your local True Value hardware store for the products and expert advice you need to help keep drafts out of your home.
Weather Strip a Door
Weather Strip a Window
Weather Strip a Door
Your doors need effective insulation to keep your home warm.
Step 1. Inspect & Clean Area
Inspect doorframes for gaps and holes that may need sealing. This will give you an idea of how much foam tape you'll need to purchase.
Clean the entire area where weather stripping will be added. Use mild detergent and water, making sure no dirt or grease remains. Remove old weather stripping and any adhesive. For stubborn adhesive, use petroleum jelly if necessary. Dry the area with a clean cloth.
Step 2. Install Strips
Foam tape installs easily and usually comes with peel-off backing. Use a utility knife to cut the foam to the correct length. Peel off the backing and press against the doorstop just behind the latch area.
Helpful Tip:
- If you have large gaps and need heavy-duty coverage, use wood or metal strips with vinyl inserts. You'll need to cut these strips to length. With a hammer, nail them to the frame so they're flush with the door jamb.
< back to top
Weather Strip a Window
Weather stripping seals windows, making them airtight. It's relatively inexpensive, and this simple project cuts down on wasted energy.
Step 1. Inspect & Clean Area
Inspect all windows for gaps and holes that may need sealing. Using mild detergent and water, clean the entire window sash – the area around the window. Make sure no dirt or grease remains. Remove any adhesive from old weather stripping, using petroleum jelly for stubborn adhesive. Dry the area with a clean cloth.
Step 2. Install Strips
Cut the foam tape with a utility knife to fit the surfaces it will be applied to. Peel off the backing and press into place.
Helpful Tip:
- Check your weather stripping frequently and replace as needed. Foam tape can wear down within a year, so make sure you are maintaining your weather stripping to keep your home insulated.
By investing a little time and effort, you will keep your home well insulated and cut down on your energy costs. For all your do-it-yourself projects, head to your local True Value hardware store and get the expert advice and products you need.
For more projects, go to TrueValue.com. >
< back to top
print project | email