Weatherizing your exterior door
Do you feel a cold draft or see ice forming around your door?
Did you know that an 1/8-inch gap can let in as much air into the home as a small window half open?
There are 3 components to a well sealing door, alignment, weatherstripping and the door sweep. A easy way to test that you have a good seal is the paper test, just take a piece of paper, lay it on the door frame and close the door on it: if the paper comes out easily without tearing that means you need to replace or adjust your door sweep. I recommend you try this test on the sides and the top of your door as well.
- Alignment – Look around the door to see if the gaps are even between the door jamb and the door itself, you could use a tape measure to be more accurate if you see there is a problem. Also check that all the mounting screws and hardware are tight and in the correct location. At this time make any needed repair to get the door properly aligned.
- Weatherstripping – Fills the gap between the sides and top of the door. Check for damaged, missing, or loose fitting weatherstripping and replace it as needed.
- Door Sweep – Fills the gap between the bottom of the door and the threshold. Check for proper alignment, damaged, missing, or loose fitting door sweep and replace it if needed.
This is a pretty easy repair that you may be able to do yourself, but if you need a hand please contact Northern Handyman Service L.L.C. using this contact link.
Thanks Mike.