A drafty door can be a nuisance. They can also increase energy costs and lead to water damage or pest infestations. Seasonal maintenance can help reduce drafts, secure your home, and prevent drafty doors for many homes.
If your drafty door is a problem, it may be time for a new door. Serving the D.C. and greater Baltimore area, our window and door company provides free consultations and skilled security gate installations alongside storm, entry, patio, and security door installation. The “Door Pros” at Master Seal are here for you. Our team is ready to help keep your home safe and secure, no matter the style, size, or project. Call us now at 855.608.1580 to learn more about our doors.
Do You Have a Drafty Door?
If you’re unsure how to fix a drafty door, you’ll want to follow the following steps:
- Identify where the draft is coming from on the door. There are a few ways to find the source. When it’s dark, hold a candle up to the doorjamb to see if it flickers. A flicker will show you where the air is leaking through the doorjamb.
- Or, with the door closed and shades drawn, look for light coming from the top, sides, and bottom of your door.
- Check for air by putting your hand up to the doorjamb and along the top and bottom of the door to feel for air.
- Any airflow or light leak changes will reveal spots that need insulation and weatherstripping.
If your door is draft, there are ways to fix them yourself, but it may also be necessary to have a new door professionally installed.
3 Easy Steps to Stop Drafty Doors
Fixing a drafty door is an easy DIY project. Before you begin, choosing the suitable method for your door, weather, and needs is essential. Sometimes, multiple methods can provide the most security.
1. Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is the most common DIY insulation. You’ll want to remove old weatherstripping and wash the doorjamb before installing new foam, no matter the style. Most foam weatherstripping will expand within the first few hours of installation and slowly degrade over time.
Due to degradation, you should plan to weatherstrip at least once a year depending on weather, door use, and the type of weatherstripping.
Once you measure and cut your weatherstripping, follow production instructions to install. Some may require a screwdriver, while others are adhesive. Before securing, check weatherstripping outside and inside to ensure there aren’t any leaks.
2. Door Sweep and Logs
Door logs are the easiest, temporary fit for drafts. You can use them for any door in your house. Made with fabric and filled with heavy materials like sand, sweeps can block a draft or insects. They are, however, bulky and only a temporary fix.
Door sweeps vary in style. When choosing a sweep, consider the overall look and weather changes. While some slip under the door to create a door log and sweep, others screw into the door or stick to the door with adhesive. Extreme weather changes will make it difficult for an adhesive sweep to stay in place.
To install a sweep, measure your door, cut the sweep, and install as directed. Some sweeps are designed for the interior, while others are for the exterior. It’s important to install a sweep on the proper side of the door. Otherwise, the door may not close.
3. Felt
If you have one spot of weatherstripping that still leaks light or air, it can be bolstered with felt. Typically, felt can nestle between the weather stripping and a doorjamb without adhesive. Finishing nails are another solution to fixing felt in place. Felt strips are a simple, removable, biodegradable option for insulating any cracks or crevices.
These are only a few ways to reduce your door draft. If you’ve tried multiple options and still find air or light leaks, it’s time for professional help. Your door may need new alignment.
Drafty Door Solutions from the “Door Pros”
Are you struggling with a drafty door? We can help. Based in Parkville, Maryland, Master Seal offers aluminum, steel, wood, vinyl, iron, or fiberglass door maintenance and installation across the DMV. Our service areas include:
- Baltimore City
- Washington, D.C.
- Baltimore County
- Montgomery County
Since 1994, we’ve helped over 40,000 customers improve the value and security of their homes. With a range of home improvement services, we’re here to support your home projects. Call us now at 855.608.1580 for a custom quote and door consultation.
