Weatherstripping is a very simple and relatively low-cost way to improve the energy efficiency of a home by reducing air leaks through doors and operable windows by sealing the movable connections when the door or window is closed, providing better protection against air drafts. Estimates show that air leaks due to improperly sealed and weatherized homes account for 30-40% of a home's overall heating and cooling loss.[2] As well as letting warm or cool air travel from its desired location, air drafts and leaks damage the homes insulation since warm, moist air leaving the house can dampen the insulation. This in turn reduces its effectiveness.
Weatherstripping is simply a word applied to a series of different types of materials and seals that perform the same basic task. It comes in many forms, and can be made from a series of materials such as wood, rubber, vinyl, metal, and foam.[3] Each type of material has its strength and weaknesses, and some are best used in certain situations. There are a few main designs of weatherstripping, which are:[3]
Some new doors do come with factory-applied weatherstripping, although over time the effectiveness of this stripping may be reduced and air leaks may once again become an issue. However, many doors and windows have little to no weatherstripping or weatherstripping that no longer performs as well as it could.
Knowing how to tell if the seal on a door or window is important if drafts are to be detected. To check if a door or window may be leaking due to insufficient or improperly applied weatherstripping, close the door on a piece of paper. If you need to put some effort to pull the paper out, the weatherstripping is likely providing a good seal. If you can pull the paper out very easily, the weatherstripping is likely not tight enough or in good shape. As well, check to see if the weatherstripping is soft and pliable to mould to the shape of the door or window and provide a good seal. Finally, if you cannot see any daylight or feel any drafts coming through the window or door, the seal provided by the weatherstripping is likely good.[5]
Before new weatherstripping is added, it is important to remove the old, ineffective weatherstripping.
Although it may be obvious to check the seals of windows and doors for leaks, air leakage can occur in some obscure places. Electrical outlets actually allow cold air into the house and leak cold air out during the summer. Caulking or pre-cut tubular rubber or foam seals can be applied behind the switch or plug plate to reduce leaks.[3] As well, seals should be checked around window air conditioners, chimneys, openings where electrical and telephone wires enter the building, and where the walls meet the foundation.[6]
Bethel Afework, Jordan Hanania, Kailyn Stenhouse, Jason Donev
Last updated: June 4, 2018
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