How to Apply Weather Stripping to Your Doors
Homeowners and renters alike are always looking for efficient ways to save money on utility bills while maintaining a high level of comfort in their homes. As a leading provider of handyman services in Vancouver, the experts at Haus Handyman have a plethora of tips and techniques to help you save energy and money no matter the season.
A go-to favourite for us – and many others – is weather stripping. Whether it is a cold Vancouver winter and you are trying to keep heat in and the cold out or it is a hot summer day and you are running your air conditioning, weather stripping is a great and easy solution.
Weather stripping is a simple and effective way to seal gaps and cracks around doors and windows, preventing air leakage. There are many different types of weather stripping available, each with its own advantages. Foam strips are easy to install and provide a good seal, but they can be susceptible to damage from sunlight and moisture. Metal strips are more durable but may be difficult to install in certain areas. Vinyl weather stripping is flexible and weather-resistant, making it a good choice for areas that see a lot of temperature changes. No matter which type of weather stripping you choose, it’s important to install it properly in order to get the best results.
Most handyman services in Vancouver would recommend it, and there are two main styles of weather stripping to choose from.
Self-Adhesive Weather Stripping
Self-adhesive weather stripping is pretty intuitive and very beneficial. First, you need to measure your door frame – top, bottom, and sides. Once measured, you will need to cut your purchased weather stripping into the appropriate lengths. You can then lightly nail these strips to the frame to better guarantee a snug fit. To check the fit you can open and close the door, and see if you have created a tight seal without compromising the door’s ability to open, shut, and latch. Once satisfied, remove the nails and peel the backing off of the adhesive side of the weather stripping. Apply firmly, avoid bubbles as best you can, and take your time. Repeat this for all sides, and you have officially weather-sealed your door!
Non-Adhesive Weather Stripping
Applying non-adhesive weather stripping follows the same general process as the self-adhesive kind outlined above. Once you’ve measured, nailed, and tested the stripping, however, you can simply finish its application by nailing the non-adhesive weather stripping all the way in. Similarly, it is imperative to go slow and take your time to limit the number of bubbles or bumps caught in the stripping. It is also worth mentioning that nailing this stripping all the way in could damage or split your door frame. Be extra careful and keep an eye open for any cracking as you nail.
As far as affordable solutions that will save you a lot of money in the long run, it is hard to argue against the weather stripping. Additionally, it is relatively simple to install yourself. That said if you need or want handyman services in Vancouver to lend a hand look no further than Haus Handyman. Our expert team is always eager to help – no matter the job! Contact us today.
