Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping is a narrow piece of metal, vinyl, rubber, felt or foam that seals the contact area between the fixed and moving sections of a door or window. When selecting a weatherstripping material you should consider its effectiveness and durability. Metal is durable, but conducts heat and cold and is the most costly. Plastic is less expensive than metal, but it is also less durable. Rubber and foam materials stay pliable in cold weather, are effective in sealing leaks and are relatively inexpensive. Whichever material you choose should be thick enough to make an airtight seal when the door or window is closed.

Weatherstripping is important to air sealing and making the most of your heating dollars. Sealing air leaks associated with drafty doors and windows is another low cost energy conservation measure that can be done as a "do-it-yourself" project.

Back