DIY Weather Stripping Installation: A Comprehensive Guide for Energy Efficiency

by Keira July 10, 2024

written by Keira July 10, 2024

How to Install Weather Stripping on a Door: A Comprehensive Guide

Identifying Air Leaks

Before replacing weather stripping, test your door for air leaks. Close the door and hold a dampened finger, burning incense stick, or narrow strip of paper in front of weather-stripped areas. If you feel or see drafts, the weather stripping needs to be replaced.

Types of Weather Stripping

There are three main types of weather stripping:

Kerf door jamb weather stripping: Fits into a pre-cut slit (kerf) on the interior side of the door casing.
Compression door jamb weatherstripping: Attaches to the exterior side of the door casing and compresses against the door when it’s closed.
Door sweep: Attaches to the bottom of the door and blocks drafts from entering under the door.

Materials and Tools

Materials:

Kerf door jamb weatherstrip kit
Compression door jamb weatherstrip kit
Door sweep

Tools:

Drill
Drill bit set and drill drivers
Hacksaw
Hammer
Measuring tape
Marker
Scissors
Pliers

Instructions

1. Remove Old Weather Stripping

Interior door casing: Use pliers to pull out the old kerf weather stripping.
Exterior door casing: Remove compression weather stripping with a hammer or drill.
Interior bottom of door: Unscrew the screws on the door sweep.

2. Install Kerf Door Jamb Weather Stripping

Measure and cut the weather stripping to fit the left and right vertical sides of the door jamb.
Press the weather stripping into the kerf.
Measure and cut the top horizontal section.
Press the top weather stripping into place.

3. Install Door Weather Stripping on Exterior

Close the door and measure the vertical distance from the door threshold to the top of the door casing.
Cut the two long strips from the kit accordingly.
Place the hinge-side strip on the door casing and compress the vinyl against the door.
Screw the strip into place.
Repeat for the latch side of the door.
Measure and cut the short horizontal strip.
Press the top strip against the door and screw it into place.

4. Install Door Sweep

Measure the width of the door and mark the measurement on the door sweep.
Cut the metal part of the door sweep with a hacksaw.
Cut the soft part with scissors.
Press the door sweep against the door so that the soft part flexes against the threshold.
Screw the door sweep into place.

5. When to Call a Professional

If installing weather stripping doesn’t prevent drafts, the door may be misaligned or the door frame may need to be rebuilt. These tasks require an experienced carpenter.

Keira

Keira is a seasoned gardener with a rich background in education and a passion for transforming even the smallest, most challenging spaces into lush, productive gardens. With over two decades of experience in both teaching and gardening, she brings a unique blend of skills and insights to Life Science Art, where she shares her expertise through engaging and informative articles. Keira's journey into gardening began in her early years, inspired by her grandmother's ability to coax vibrant blooms and hearty vegetables from the rocky soil of their family farm. This early exposure to the wonders of gardening planted a seed of curiosity and love for plants that has only grown over the years. Before fully immersing herself in the world of gardening, Keira spent many years as a special education teacher. This role honed her patience, creativity, and problem-solving skills—qualities that have proven invaluable in her gardening endeavors. Her teaching experience also gave her a deep understanding of the diverse needs and capabilities of individuals, which she now applies to helping others learn to garden effectively, regardless of their starting point. Keira specializes in small-space gardening, low-income gardening, and cultivating plants in poor soil conditions. She understands that not everyone has access to vast, fertile lands or unlimited resources, and she is dedicated to making gardening accessible and rewarding for everyone. Living in urban areas or having limited outdoor space shouldn't be a barrier to enjoying the benefits of gardening. Keira has mastered the art of maximizing every inch of available space, whether it's a tiny balcony, a cramped backyard, or a window sill. Her innovative techniques and creative solutions help her readers grow a variety of plants in the most confined spaces. Keira is also a strong advocate for low-income gardening. She believes that everyone should have the opportunity to grow their own food and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening, regardless of their financial situation. Through her articles, she shares practical tips on budget-friendly gardening methods, repurposing household items, and making the most of available resources. Her advice empowers individuals and families to start and maintain gardens without breaking the bank. Not everyone is blessed with rich, loamy soil. Keira's expertise extends to growing plants in less-than-ideal soil conditions. She provides guidance on improving soil quality, selecting hardy plant varieties, and employing sustainable practices to ensure a bountiful harvest, even in challenging environments. Her hands-on experience and proven techniques help gardeners turn even the poorest soil into a thriving garden. Keira's contributions to Life Science Art are invaluable. Her articles cover a wide range of topics, from step-by-step guides on planting and maintaining specific types of gardens to tips on dealing with common gardening challenges. She also delves into the science behind plant growth, soil health, and sustainable gardening practices, making complex concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Beyond her technical expertise, Keira's writing is infused with warmth and encouragement. She understands that gardening is not just about growing plants; it's about fostering a connection with nature, finding peace and fulfillment, and building a community. Her personal anecdotes and down-to-earth advice resonate with readers, inspiring them to embark on their own gardening journeys with confidence and joy. Keira invites you to join her on Life Science Art, where she shares her wealth of knowledge and passion for gardening. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, her articles offer valuable insights, practical tips, and the inspiration you need to create your own green oasis. Discover the joys of gardening with Keira as your guide and unlock the potential of your outdoor space, no matter how small or challenging it may be.