How to Weatherstrip an Exterior Door

Weatherstripping your exterior doors is an easy DIY project that takes about an hour to complete. In the video above, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to replace weatherstripping on an exterior door. We’ll walk you through it step-by-step in the guide below.

Types of Weatherstripping

Each type of weatherstripping has specific advantages, making some more suitable for certain applications than others. Understanding the different types available will help you choose the best option for your particular needs.

Vinyl-Clad Foam

Vinyl-clad foam is one of the most popular and widely used types of weatherstripping for exterior doors. It combines a foam core, which compresses to form a tight seal, with a durable vinyl covering that resists wear and tear from frequent use. This type of weatherstripping is typically applied to the edges of doors and can be found in various shapes, such as V-strips, bulb shapes, or tape.

Homeowners typically like vinyl-clad foam because of its long-lasting durability and its effectiveness at sealing out drafts and moisture. It’s a particularly good choice for doors that experience heavy use, such as entry doors.

Pile Weatherstripping

Pile weatherstripping, made from dense fibers like polypropylene, is often associated with windows, particularly those with sliding sashes. However, it can also be effective for sealing gaps around doors, especially sliding patio doors. The soft, brush-like material compresses against the door to create a barrier against drafts and debris.

Pile weatherstripping is flexible and can accommodate slight irregularities in door alignment. While it’s not as durable as other types, it’s still an effective option for keeping out drafts and dust in areas where the door is not frequently slammed or pushed hard.

Aluminum with Vinyl Flap

This type of weatherstripping consists of an aluminum base with a flexible vinyl flap that seals the bottom of exterior doors. It is particularly useful for threshold applications, where the door meets the floor, and is known for its durability and effectiveness in high-traffic areas. Aluminum with a vinyl flap can withstand regular opening and closing without losing its sealing capability, making it an excellent choice for doors exposed to the elements. It also provides superior resistance to drafts, dirt, and even small pests. Installation is relatively straightforward, and replacement is not needed frequently.

Rubber Gaskets

Rubber gaskets are thick, flexible strips that are often used around door frames to create a tight seal. These gaskets compress when the door closes, filling the gaps around the frame to block air, water, and sound. Rubber weatherstripping is highly durable and able to withstand both frequent use and extreme weather conditions. It is often used in more specialized applications, such as garage doors or doors that need additional sealing for noise reduction. The material’s elasticity makes it effective over long periods without significant degradation.

Felt

Felt weatherstripping is one of the more affordable options available and is commonly used in low-traffic areas or for temporary use. It typically comes in rolls and is applied with adhesive or staples. Felt can be used to block small drafts and is often found on older doors and windows.

However, because it is less durable and prone to wear, it’s not ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic or doors that are opened and closed frequently. While felt can be an effective and budget-friendly solution, it generally needs to be replaced more often than other types of weatherstripping.

When to Replace Weatherstripping

Like any material exposed to the elements, weatherstripping degrades over time. Knowing when to replace your weatherstripping ensures that your home remains comfortable and your energy bills stay manageable. Here are the key signs that indicate it’s time to replace your weatherstripping:

1. Visible damage or wear: Inspect your weatherstripping regularly for cracks, tears, or gaps. Weatherstripping made from materials like rubber, vinyl, or foam can break down over time, especially after repeated exposure to temperature fluctuations, moisture, and friction from the door opening and closing. If you notice sections of the weatherstripping that are visibly worn, cracked, or missing, it’s time to replace them.
2. Light visible around door edges: An easy way to check for compromised weatherstripping is to close the door and observe if any light is visible around the edges. Light coming through the gaps around the door indicates that the weatherstripping is no longer forming a tight seal, which allows air to pass through and reduces your home’s energy efficiency. This is often most noticeable around the top and sides of the door.
3. Drafts felt near doors on windy days: Feeling drafts near doors, especially on windy days, is a clear indication that your weatherstripping is no longer effective. Hold your hand near the edges of the door or window frame; if you can feel cold or warm air flowing in, it’s time to replace the weatherstripping. These drafts can significantly impact your home’s heating and cooling systems, causing them to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.
4. Brittle or aging weatherstripping: Over time, weatherstripping materials can lose their flexibility and become brittle, particularly in older homes or in extreme climates. As the material hardens, it becomes less effective at sealing gaps and preventing drafts. If you find that your weatherstripping is no longer pliable and easily compressible, it’s likely too old and should be replaced.

Removing Old Weatherstripping

To prepare your door for new weatherstripping, you’ll first need to remove the old weatherstripping.

1. Inspect the door frame for any damage or rot. Repair if necessary before proceeding.
2. Remove any old weatherstripping using a utility knife and 5-in-1 painter’s tool.
3. Clean the door frame thoroughly, removing dirt, debris, or old adhesive.
4. Sand the jambs smooth with 100-grit sandpaper to ensure proper adhesion of the new weatherstripping.

Installing Weatherstripping on Exterior Doors

New weatherstripping should be installed along every edge of your door–along the bottom, sides, and header.

For the bottom of the door:

1. Measure the width of the door and cut the aluminum weatherstripping to fit using a hacksaw.
2. Close the door and mark where the weatherstripping will be installed on the bottom exterior surface.
3. Drill pilot holes along the marked line.
4. Attach the aluminum weatherstripping using the provided screws.

Proper installation at the door’s bottom helps create a significant barrier against drafts, enhancing overall insulation.

Next, move on to the door jambs and header:

1. Cut two pieces of foam weatherstripping to fit the side jambs and one for the header.
2. Starting with one side jamb, position the weatherstripping against the jamb, gently pressing it against the closed door.
3. Secure the weatherstripping with 1-inch nails, being careful not to compress it too tightly.
4. Repeat the process for the other side jamb and the header.

Open and close your door several times after installation to test the weatherstripping.

Tips for Effective Weatherstripping

Here’s how to get the most out of your new weatherstripping:

• Avoid overtightening: Weatherstripping that’s too tight can wear out quickly and make the door difficult to close.
• Test the seal: After installation, close the door and check for any light coming through. Adjust as necessary.
• Consider seasonal changes: Some materials may expand or contract with temperature fluctuations, so check and adjust seasonally if needed.
• Clean regularly: Keep the weatherstripping clean to maintain its effectiveness and longevity.