Doors and windows that are not sealed properly can be a huge factor in wasted energy and unwanted drafts in your home
. Not only limited to doors and windows, air can also flow through cracks in walls, roofs and floors. Fortunately you can plug these leaks. If you want to lower your energy costs and cut back on energy use you have to caulk or use weather-stripping in these areas. Here are a few tips to help with weather-stripping to help make your home more energy-efficient and save you money.
One of the simplest things you can do is take a sample of the existing seal to your hardware store. This will help the salesperson find the most appropriate match for the existing seal. This is a great time-saving tip as it saves you from having to take multiple trips to the store.
A good option for you to try is foam or wrapped foam seal. They are not expensive and they do a very good job. The wrapped foam simply has a layer of plastic or vinyl around the foam core.
Carefully follow all instructions that come on the label.
Make sure that the area you are applying the weather-stripping to is clean and dry.
A box cutter is a handy tool to have available if you need to do some cutting or trimming.
Always take the proper measurements to know how much material you will need before you make that purchase. You should consider measuring a few inches over what you need just in case you made a mistake. You can always cut any extra off but there's nothing you can do if it's too short. Always double-check your measurements just to be on the safe side.
A great idea is to find or buy a weather-stripping kit that is made by the manufacturer of your door or window. If you can't then go with the best recommendation your retailer gives you. If you own sliding doors take this into serious consideration because they are well-known for having air leaks and it's best to get the proper strip from them.
Sometimes you may find it difficult shutting doors after applying new weather-stripping. This is natural and usually stops after a few weeks. If after that time you are faced with the same problem, it's time to start cutting some of the excess pieces. Don't go all gung-ho though, start with small pieces and keep testing the door as you cut.
If you have a garage make sure that the seal is in good condition, this can be a major area for leaks. If you feel draft in your garage, check the door seal. Inspect the seal of the entry door to the garage to make sure it is in good condition.
Applying weather-stripping is a necessary step you should take to make your home more energy-efficient. Try to do the job the right way the first time. It will go a long way to cut costs on you heating and cooling bills.