Tools and Materials
Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.
How to Choose the Right Door Bottom Weatherstripping
To choose the best type of front door weatherstripping for your door, 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)
V-Channel (V-Strip/Tension Seal)
- Made from vinyl, aluminum or stainless steel
- Use at sides of a double-hung or sliding window or 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
- Use 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)
- Use on top and bottom of window seams, door frames, attic hatches and nonopening 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
- Use on the bottom interior side of a door
- Pros: Installs quickly
- Cons: Can drag on carpets
For best results, spend some time identifying all of 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, front 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.
Door Weatherstripping: Step by Step
Doors require two different kinds of weatherstripping door sweeps for the bottom and foam tape for the top and sides.