Choose a type of weatherstripping that will withstand the friction, weather, temperature changes, and wear and tear associated with its location. For example, when applied to a door bottom or threshold, weatherstripping could drag on carpet or erode as a result of foot traffic. Weatherstripping in a window sash must accommodate the sliding of panes — up and down, sideways, or out. The weatherstripping you choose should seal well when the door or window is closed but allow it to open freely.
Choose a product for each specific location. Felt and open-cell foams tend to be inexpensive, susceptible to weather, visible, and inefficient at blocking airflow. However, the ease of applying these materials may make them valuable in low-traffic areas. Vinyl, which is slightly more expensive, holds up well and resists moisture. Metals (bronze, copper, stainless steel, and aluminum) last for years and are affordable. Metal weatherstripping can also provide a nice touch to older homes where vinyl might seem out of place
Self-stick plastic (vinyl) folded along length in a V-shape or a springy bronze strip (also copper, aluminum, and stainless steel) shaped to bridge a gap. The shape of the material creates a seal by pressing against the sides of a crack to block drafts.
Plain or reinforced with a flexible metal strip; sold in rolls. Must be stapled, glued, or tacked into place. Seals best if staples are parallel to length of the strip.
Closed-cell foam attached to wood or metal strips.
Nonporous, closed-cell foam, open-cell foam, or EDPM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubber.
Pliable or rigid strip gasket (attached to wood or metal strips.)
Aluminum or stainless steel with brush of plastic, vinyl, sponge, or felt.
Works similarly to refrigerator gaskets.
Vinyl or sponge rubber tubes with a flange along length to staple or tack into place. Door or window presses against them to form a seal.
Tubular gasket attached to a metal strip that resembles reinforced tubular vinyl
Aluminum face attachment with vinyl C-shaped insert to protect under the door.
Vinyl and aluminum
Aluminum or other metal on exterior, wood on interior, with door-bottom seam and vinyl threshold replacement.
Pile weatherstrip with plastic Mylar fin centered in pile.
Enables sash to engage one another when closed
To determine how much weatherstripping you will need, add the perimeters of all windowsand doors to be weatherstripped, then add 5% to 10% to accommodate any waste. Also consider that weatherstripping comes in varying depths and widths.
Weatherstripping supplies and techniques range from simple to the technical. Consult the instructions on the weatherstripping package.
For air sealing windows, apply weatherstripping between the sash and the frame. The weatherstripping shouldn’t interfere with the operation of the window.