How to Weatherproof Your Exterior Doors for Any Season

As colder or warmer temperatures settle in, keeping outside air where it belongs becomes crucial. Weatherproofing your exterior doors not only locks out drafts but also helps reduce energy bills and keeps your living spaces comfortable. If you have noticed chilly gusts in the winter or extra heat sneaking in during the summer, your door’s weatherproofing may need a refresh. With just a few tools, some supplies, and a simple method, you can seal out the elements and improve your home’s overall energy efficiency. Let Handydads guide you through the process of making your doors ready for any weather.

Project Snapshot

This project involves sealing gaps around your exterior door by adding or upgrading weatherstripping, a door sweep, and inspecting the frame for leaks. Expect to spend about an hour on each door, with skill levels ranging from beginner to intermediate depending on the age and style of your doorway. Not only does this task reduce drafts, it also stops dust, insects, and moisture from sneaking inside.

Tools and Materials

Gather a tape measure, utility knife or scissors, screwdriver, hammer, pry bar, caulk gun, and weatherproof caulk. You will also need adhesive or tubular weatherstripping, a new door sweep, cleaning supplies, and possibly a replacement threshold if yours is damaged. Handydads recommends checking your local hardware store for door-specific kits that include the exact weatherstripping you’ll need.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by examining your exterior door from top to bottom, checking for light or air gaps along the edges and at the bottom. Remove old weatherstripping carefully to avoid damaging the frame. Clean the door jamb and threshold thoroughly so new materials stick well. Measure the perimeter and bottom of your door, then cut weatherstripping and the door sweep to fit these dimensions. Install adhesive weatherstripping around the jamb and use screws or adhesive to secure the new sweep at the bottom. Run a bead of exterior-grade caulk around the frame to close any persistent cracks or gaps. Test the door to ensure it closes snugly and that all edges are well-sealed.

From the Toolbox

A Handydads client once called about an icy draft in their hallway that no heater seemed to fix. After a quick check, our team found daylight peeking around their back door. The project took less than an hour, and by dinner time, the chilly drafts were gone and the energy bill started dropping. Sometimes, the simplest fixes bring the most noticeable comfort.

Top 5 Mistakes

Overlooking small gaps which can still let in air, choosing cheap weatherstripping that does not last, forgetting to clean the surface before installation, not securing the sweep tight enough to stop drafts, and failing to check that the door still opens and closes smoothly after adding materials.

Tool and Material Recommendations

Choose closed-cell foam weatherstripping for better durability and a flexible fit. Silicone or rubber materials offer excellent longevity and performance in varying temperatures. A metal door sweep with a rubber blade seals best. For caulk, pick an exterior-rated, paintable option that can flex and move with your home as it settles.

Quick Tips and Hacks

Use a lit flashlight outside at night with help from a friend indoors to quickly reveal any lingering gaps. Replace weatherstripping every couple of years, or sooner if you notice deterioration. Store leftover materials for quick fixes in the future. If you see condensation or mold, that is also a sign your seal is wearing out.

Need a Hand?

Looking for a fast, flawless finish or prefer the pros to tackle tough drafts? Handydads can weatherproof your doors quickly and efficiently. Contact us today to schedule your handyman service and keep your home comfortable year-round.