How to Install Weatherstripping on Doors
Seal gaps around exterior doors to block drafts and save energy
What You'll Need
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Tools
Tape measure
Utility knife or scissors
Screwdriver
Pry bar or putty knife
For removing old weatherstripping
Hammer(optional)
Hacksaw(optional)
For cutting door sweeps
Materials
Step-by-Step Instructions
Inspect the door
5-10 minutes
Close the door and look for light around the edges. Run your hand along the edges to feel for drafts. Check the bottom of the door for gaps. Note which areas need sealing.
Pro Tip
Do this on a windy day for easier detection of drafts.
Remove old weatherstripping
10-15 minutes
Pull off or pry away old weatherstripping from the door frame. Remove any nails, staples, or adhesive residue. Clean the jamb surface.
Measure and cut new weatherstripping
10 minutes
Measure the top and both sides of the door jamb. Cut V-strip or your chosen weatherstripping to length. For V-strip, the V should open toward the outside.
Pro Tip
Cut pieces slightly long - you can always trim. Too short won't seal properly.
Install side and top weatherstripping
15-20 minutes
Starting at the top, apply self-adhesive weatherstripping to the door stop (the strip the door closes against). Position it so the door compresses it when closed. Install both sides.
Pro Tip
Press firmly along the entire length. For best adhesion, warm the adhesive slightly with a hair dryer in cold weather.
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15-20 minutes
Measure the bottom of the door. Cut the door sweep to length with a hacksaw or tin snips. Close the door and position the sweep so it touches the threshold but doesn't drag. Mark screw holes and install.
Pro Tip
The sweep should compress slightly when the door is closed - not so tight that it's hard to close.
Test the seal
5 minutes
Close the door and check for drafts. The door should close smoothly with slight compression of the weatherstripping. Adjust sweep height if needed.
Pro Tip
The dollar bill test: close the door on a dollar bill. If you can pull it out easily, the seal isn't tight enough.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Installing weatherstripping that's too thick (door won't close)
- Installing weatherstripping that's too thin (gaps remain)
- Not cleaning the surface before adhesive weatherstripping
- Setting door sweep too low (drags and wears out quickly)
- Cutting weatherstripping too short
Safety Warnings
- Be careful with utility knives when cutting materials
When to Call a Professional
If the door itself is warped, if the frame is out of square, or if the threshold needs replacement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Project Overview
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Time
- 30-60 minutes per door
- Est. Cost
- $15–$40
- Tools
- 6 items
- Materials
- 3 items
- Steps
- 6
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