What Is Weather Stripping in Construction?
What Is Weather Stripping in Construction?
Weatherstripping is the process of making a home more energy-efficient by sealing exterior openings such as doors, windows, and trunks with weatherproof materials. It ensures that air can’t pass through an opening and prevents water from infiltrating the house.
Weatherstripping sealants are usually made of vinyl, foam, metal, rubber or other waterproof material which helps to keep warm air inside during winter and cool air in during summer.
This process also eliminates drafts which can significantly reduce monthly energy costs. In addition, weatherstripping can protect against unwanted pests and noise pollution.
What Is The Purpose Of Weather Stripping?
Weatherstripping is an effective way to reduce drafts and save energy in your home. Its purpose is to fill the gaps between doors and windows, keeping warm air inside during the winter and cool air inside during the summer.
The strips create a tight seal that helps to prevent air from entering and exiting through cracks or gaps. Weatherstripping also prevents water infiltration which can result in damage and mold growth.
While weatherstripping is most frequently used on movable components like doors or operable windows, it can also be used for stationary components; caulk is more appropriate for filling these smaller cracks and gaps.
Overall, weatherstripping helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures while saving energy costs in the long run.
Are There Different Kinds Of Weather Stripping?
Yes, there are different kinds of weather stripping designed to seal the gap at the bottom of a door.
- Door sweeps install on the interior-bottom of a door and seal against the side of a threshold, and can be used for sealing gaps ranging from 1/8 to 1 inch.
- Under-door seals attach to both sides of the threshold and create a tight seal when the door is closed, but may not work as well on irregularly shaped thresholds. Both types are successful in providing an effective barrier against air infiltration.
How Long Does Weather Stripping Last?
Weather stripping is a great way to create a more energy-efficient home, by preventing drafts from entering around doors and windows.
Weatherstripping typically does not have an adhesive backing, so it needs to be stapled into place and replaced every one to two years, as it can become vulnerable to moisture and wear over time.
However, its durability is often greater than adhesive-backed tape, making it a great choice. Weather stripping is also highly effective in creating airtight seals that prevent drafts and increase energy efficiency.
Which Types Of Weatherstripping Are Most Common?
Plain or Reinforced Felt Weatherstrip is one of the most common weatherstripping types for doors, which is usually sold in rolls.
This type of weatherstripping is made from various materials, such as cotton, polyester and wool, and its metal strip reinforcement helps to keep leaves and other large debris out while also improving insulation.
It’s long lifespan provides decades of protection from drafts and outdoor elements. Additionally, felt weather-stripping can be easily installed with a few simple tools, making it an ideal choice for both professional contractors and DIYers alike.
What Are The Three Types Of Door Weather Stripping?
There are three main types of weatherstripping – tubular, metal-leaf, and kerf-in – that are easy to install and require a few special tools. Tubular weatherstripping provides a cushion seal by squeezing against the door or window jamb when pushed closed.
Metal-leaf weatherstripping is designed with thin metal strips that compress together when the door closes for an airtight seal. Kerf-in weatherstripping fits into slots cut into the edges of doors or windows for a tight fit.
All three have proven effective in preventing heat transfer from outside to inside, as well as drafts and moisture problems that can lead to mold growth.
