Everything You Need to Know About Weatherstripping
A happy home is an efficient home. Inefficiencies – like leaky faucets and windows that have lost their seal – cost you money and can lead to damage down the road.
Unlike the drip of a tap or an unsightly window, old or damaged weatherstripping is silent and invisible, making it one of the biggest threats to your home’s efficiency.
Below you’ll find everything you need to know about weatherstripping – what it is and why it’s important, when to replace weathering stripping, how to DIY weatherstripping, and when to call in an expert.
What is weatherstripping?
Weatherstripping is material installed around the edges of windows and doors to create a barrier against external elements. It acts as a seal between the wall and your window or door.
Typically made from PVC, rubber, or vinyl, weatherstripping prevents wind, rain, snow, dirt and pests from finding their way into your home. When properly installed, weatherstripping helps to maintain the internal temperature of your home, saving your heater or air conditioner from working over time.
What does weatherstripping do?
- Insulation: Helps to maintain a stable internal temperature by keeping your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
- Protection: Prevents debris, dust, and pests from entering.
- Energy efficiency: Reduces energy costs by minimizing the need for continuous heating or cooling.
- Noise reduction: If you live on a busy street or close to the fire department, properly installed weatherstripping is your best friend.
How often should you check weatherstripping?
You should check your weatherstripping at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall, when temperatures are mild. Check the doors and windows of your home and any other structures on your property. While the temperature of your shed or garage might not be as important as in your home, keeping pests out is essential.
Signs that it’s time to replace weatherstripping
- Visible gaps between the door or window and the frame.
- Cracked, brittle, or discoloured weatherstripping.
- Water leaks or drafts near the door or window.
- Increased energy bills due to temperature fluctuations; your heater or air conditioner is running continuously.
Generally speaking, your weatherstripping should be replaced every 2-3 years. Exactly when you should replace your weatherstripping depends on a few factors, such as your local climate and the quality of the materials used. Doors that are used frequently are likely to deteriorate faster.
If you’d like to learn how to do this yourself, keep reading. If not, you can schedule a handyman here.
Can you repair weatherstripping?
The best fix for worn-out weatherstripping is replacing it. However, if the damage is contained to a few rips or tears here and there, you may be able to salvage your current weatherstripping with a silicone adhesive. Simply clean the area and let it dry completely before applying the adhesive according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Remember: Damaged weatherstripping costs you money. Repairing weatherstripping is a short-term fix. To ensure your home is as efficient as possible, replace damaged weatherstripping.
Replacing weatherstripping
Step 1: Identify and measure the area that needs to be replaced
You know what they say – measure twice, cut once (or as we like to say, measure once, cuss twice). Once you’ve identified the areas that need to be replaced – and before you make a trip to the hardware store – jot down your measurements.
Step 2: Choose the right material and tools
Select weatherstripping material that suits your needs and your unique climate. Always choose the best quality you can afford. Quality materials will save you time, money, and headaches down the road.
You’ll also want to pick up a utility knife, screwdriver, putty knife, and adhesive if you don’t already have them at home.
Step 3: Remove old weatherstripping and clean the surface
Use your screwdriver to remove any screws holding the old weatherstripping in place. Peel the weatherstripping away from the frame, using your utility knife for extra sticky areas.
Clean the areas with soap and water to remove dirt and debris. Most importantly, be sure to remove residual glue or caulk. You don’t want anything getting in the way of the new weatherstripping. Use your putty knife as needed.
Make sure the area is completely dry before moving on to step 4. If your door or window requires repairs or refinishing, this should be done between steps 3 and 4.
Tip: Work in sections to make the installation more manageable. Take breaks or spread the work over a few days to avoid making mistakes.
Step 4: Install new weatherstripping
Once the surface is completely dry, carefully remove the backing paper from the weatherstripping and press it firmly into place. Cut off excess.
Step 5: Test the seal
Once the installation is complete, close the door or window and check for visible gaps.
Step 6: Enjoy
Congrats – you’re all done!
When to call a professional
While many homeowners can easily install basic adhesive weatherstripping, certain situations warrant professional assistance:
- Significant damage: If the door or window itself is damaged, or the door or window frame is damaged, we recommend getting it professionally repaired or replaced before installing new weatherstripping.
- Complex systems: Automatic or complex garage door systems will likely require specialized knowledge and tools.
- Uncertainty: If you’re unsure about the type of weatherstripping needed or the installation process, call a handyman. If your project requires more than simple adhesive weatherstripping – door jam installation, metal weatherstripping, etc. – a handyman is your best bet.
- Time and Convenience: A professional handyman can install any type of weatherstripping quickly and efficiently, saving you time and, in the long run, money.
Find the right handyman service
The handyman you hire should check all of these boxes:
- Experience. Have they installed weatherstripping before?
- Knowledge. Do they have extensive knowledge about weatherstripping installation methods and materials?
- Licensing and insurance. Are they properly licensed and insured?
- Customer reviews. Do they have positive reviews and references from previous clients?
- Clear communication. Are they able to explain the process and answer any questions before starting the job?
Working with OddJob
At Odd Job, we only take on projects when we have the knowledge and expertise to do so. We use the highest quality materials suited to your unique needs and budget. Our comprehensive handyman service is friendly, efficient, and comes with a two-year warranty (the longest in the business). We pride ourselves on good communication, punctuality, and convenience for our clients.
Get a free quote for your project or reach out with your questions. We’re here to help!
We value our customers and we are committed to providing them with the best handyman service. You can visit our Google My Business profiles in Toronto, Mississauga, and Burlington to check our reviews and see why our clients trust us with their home repair and maintenance needs.
