Resources and Services
Consumer Guides
The Benefits of Weatherstripping
Many older homes, and even some newer ones, have numerous little cracks, holes and spaces through which, in the winter, warm air escapes and cold air enters. In the summer this works in reverse--unwanted hot air enters and welcomed cool air escapes. All these little drafts of air can make a home uncomfortable in the winter and could cause ill health. Air leaks can also damage the house’s insulation, because warm, moist air leaving the house dampens the insulation and reduces its heat-resisting effectiveness. And, of course, all that cold air entering the house means you have to raise the thermostat setting to keep warm. This forces the furnace to work harder and use more fuel to keep indoor air at a comfortable temperature.
In homes that have been weatherized, air leaks account, on the average, for 30-40% of the heat lost from the house. This is why making a house leakproof through steps such as weather-stripping is the first step one should take to stop energy waste and save unnecessary fuel costs.
Weather-stripping is a narrow piece of metal, vinyl, rubber, felt or foam that seals the contact area between the fixed and movable sections of a joint. Weather-stripping prevents air infiltration around windows and doors by eliminating gaps between the frames and the moving parts when they are closed. All exterior doors, as well as doors leading to an attic or garage, should be weatherized, as should all operable windows.
Some of your weather-stripping options are as follows:
Durability. A more expensive type of weather-stripping that will last can be the most economical choice.
Ease of installation. Are special tools required?
Materials. Most weather-stripping is made of sponge, foam, felt, vinyl or metal, or a combination of materials. These materials vary in cost and durability.
Sponge or foam. Sponge or foam is inexpensive, but not very durable. It tends to deteriorate when exposed to weather and is not suitable for applications where there is friction or abrasion. Neoprene sponge or vinyl foam is more durable than sponge rubber or polyurethane foam.
Felt. Felt is also relatively inexpensive, but not very durable. Do not use felt where it is exposed to the weather or moisture. Felt tears easily and requires care in installation. It should not be used where there is friction or abrasion. All-wool felt is more durable, but is also more expensive.
Vinyl. Vinyl is used in many types of weather-stripping. It is generally a durable product and resistant to moisture. It is usually more expensive than foam or felt.
Metal. Metals, such as bronze, copper, stainless steel and aluminum, are used in weather-stripping. Metal weather-stripping tends to be low cost and durable. Aluminum is frequently used for reinforcing other weather-stripping materials.
More Popular Entries
Additions & Remodels
More Return on Your Home Improvement Investment
Easy Financing Options for Remodeling
Basement Remodeling Basics
Agents (Real Estate), Appraisers & Home Inspectors
Home Inspections
Choosing a Mortgage
Condominiums
Appliances
Installing Appliances
Selecting Major Appliances
Repair Dishwasher and Water Damage
Builders (New Homes), Architects & Designers
Taking the Mystery Out of Kitchen Design
Workout Room
Appraisals
Carpentry & Cabinets
Tip: Dealing with Dryrot
Cabinet Options
Tip: Repair Laminate Countertops
Cleaning Services
Carpet Care Tips
Ways to Clean Your Carpet
Choosing a Carpet Cleaning Service
Concrete, Brick & Stone
Taking Care of Your Chimney and Fireplace
Wunderbar Rebar!
Repair Cinderblock Foundation
Consumer Guides
Appliance Maintenance
Laundry Room Solutions
Getting Your Home Ready for Winter
Design Ideas
Skylights
Add a Hot Tub to Your Deck
Stylish Entry
Electrical, Telephone & Data
Saving On Electrical Repairs
Convenient Electrical Fixtures
“Install Switches, Outlets and Fixtures”
Expert Advice
Cost of Siding
Workout Room
Pouring Concrete Driveway or Walkway
Flooring
Carpet Care In Depth
Steam Cleaning Grout
Choosing the Best Carpet for Your Home
Handyman Services
Avoiding Home Repair Rip-offs
Some Assembly Required
The Benefits of Weatherstripping
Heating & Cooling
Tip: Programmable Thermostats Can Save Money
Environmentally Friendly Solar Heat
Checklist: Cleaning the Air in Your Home
Home Construction
More Return on Your Home Improvement Investment
Checklist: Recommended Questions to Ask a Contractor
Do-It-Yourself Compared to Hiring a Pro
Landscape, Decks & Fences
Different Styles of Landscaping
The Right Barn or Shed For You
Picket Fences Add Charm
Moving & Storage
Some Assembly Required
Preparing a House for Sale
Stowing it Away: Where to Put It
Other Services
Tip: Radon Testing
How to Bring a Sauna Into Your Home
Mold in House
Painting & Staining
Lead Paint Common Sense
The Basics of Interior Painting
Checklist: Interior Paint Prep
Plumbing
Tip: Saving Money on Plumbing
Find a Water Treatment Service
Installation of Various Sump Pumps
Quick Tips
Tip: Getting Rid of Odors
Tip: Repair a Septic System
Checklist: Childproofing Your Home and Yard
Roofing, Siding & Gutters
Time for a New Roof?
Modern Roofing Options
General Roofing Information
SP Feature Article
The Internet Will Change the Buying of Services
Walls & Ceilings
Understanding Plaster
Drywall Panels and Sheets
Drywall Installation Techniques
Windows & Doors
Thermal Replacement Windows
Choosing Between Blinds or Shades
Know the Kind of Custom Window You Want