Tools and Materials
Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.
How to Choose the Right Door Weatherstripping
To choose the best type of front door weatherstripping, make sure that it’ll withstand the temperature changes, weather, and wear-and-tear specific to your home and region.
Many of these products also work with windows. For more information on sealing your windows, check out How to Weatherstrip Your Windows.
Comparing Weatherstripping Options by Type
V-Channel (V-Strip/Tension Seal)
- Made from vinyl, aluminum or stainless steel
- Used at sides of a double hung or sliding window or at the top and sides of a door
- Pros: durable; invisible once in place
- Cons: could make it harder to open or close windows and doors
Felt
- Made from natural wool or synthetic blends
- Used around doors and windows, especially near door hinges
- Pros: affordable and easy to install
- Cons: only lasts one to two years; low durability; worn down by moisture and friction; visible
Foam Tape
- Made from vinyl, rubber or polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
- Used on top and bottom of window seams, door frames, attic hatches and non-opening windows
- Pros: affordable and easy to install
- Cons: breaks down with heavy wear; visible
Door Sweeps
- Made with aluminum or stainless steel frames and plastic, vinyl, sponge or felt bristles
- Used on the bottom interior side of a door
- Pros: installs quickly
- Cons: can drag on carpets
For best results, spend some time identifying all the air leaks in your home, including those in unseen holes or pathways in your plumbing, wiring and HVAC system. If you have many forms of air leaks, door weatherstripping alone may not make a noticeable difference. Use our Winterize Your Home Checklist to determine what else you may need to seal for the best results.
Installing Door Weatherstripping: Step by Step
Here are general instructions for installing common types of weatherstripping around a door. However, you’ll need to defer to the manufacturer’s instructions on any products you use.
Step 1: Prepare Your Door
Clean the stop moulding with soapy water and allow it to dry completely.
Step 2: Cut and Apply Foam Weatherstripping
Cut foam tape to fit each side and the top of the door. Peel the back from the foam and press it into the inside of the stop moulding.
Step 3: Install the Door Sweep
Cut the sweep to fit the door. With the door closed, screw the sweep to the door so that its bottom is in contact with the floor.