Why Weatherstripping Is Even More Critical in Summer

Weatherstripping is important year round, but it’s even more critical in hot weather. Now that summer is here, all your doors and windows should be tightly sealed to prevent heat from escaping into your home. In addition to overheating your house, gaps in windows and doors can lead to paying high energy bills. Here’s what you need to know about weatherstripping, along with what to consider when deciding on a product.

What Is Weatherstripping?
You’ve probably heard of weatherstripping but may not understand what it really is. Put simply, weatherstripping is the process of sealing openings or gaps around doors and windows that require a tight seal. Weatherstripping can also get rid of a draft or air flow from an inside space to an outside space. That’s why weatherstripping is usually included on doors and window sashes for permitting better cooling or heating.

Types of Weatherstripping Products
Weatherstripping comes is several forms, including:

Felt
Sold in rolls, felt weatherstripping is inexpensive. But It generally lasts for just one to two years. This form of weatherstripping goes around window sashes or around doors as well as in door jambs. Installation is easy as it involves cutting it to a desired length, using a utility knife. You can either nail or staple felt weatherstripping.

Foam Tape
The advantage of foam tape is that it works well for cracks with an irregular size. Foam tape is from EPDM rubber and has a sticky back. It comes in various thicknesses and widths, and installation is easy. Just cut the tape to a desired length and then stick it where needed.

Vinyl
This form of weatherstripping does an exceptional job of blocking air. Although it can cost more, vinyl is incredibly moisture resistance, so it does well in areas prone to a lot of humidity and moisture. It’s typically installed at the base or windows or doors, on the bottoms or tops of window sashes and on the bottoms of doors. It can also be used as an air barrier between a door and the door’s jamb.

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