Prices, Promotions, styles, and availability may vary. Our local stores do not honor online pricing. Prices and availability of products and services are subject to change without notice. Errors will be corrected where discovered, and Lowe's reserves the right to revoke any stated offer and to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions including after an order has been submitted.

How to Install DIY Door Weatherstripping

Brian Gregory

By Brian Gregory
Updated October 21, 2024

The doors and windows in your home often leak air, even when closed. You can apply a DIY weatherstripping door seal strip to stop leaks and aid with climate control. A door draft stopper also keeps out dust and insects. This is a smart home project we'll assist you with every step of the way.

Skill

Intermediate

Time

One Day

Tools and Materials

Note

Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.

How to Choose the Right Door Bottom Weatherstripping

A person installing weatherstripping on a door.

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.

Tip

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

Tip

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

A diagram showing the door sweep and threshold.

Doors require two different kinds of weatherstripping door sweeps for the bottom and foam tape for the top and sides.

Instructions

Related Tags: