Weatherstripping: An Easy DIY Task That Keeps Conditioned Air in Your Florida Home
Checking the integrity of your Florida home’s outer envelope is a simple task that you can perform throughout the year. In fact, conducting periodic inspections of windows, door frames, and other movable building components is a great way to make sure that your energy dollars and conditioned air aren’t leaking like a sieve from your wallet and home.
If you discover leaks around your windows and door frames, you can head to any area hardware store and pick up a roll of weatherstripping. You will want to make sure that it’s durable enough to withstand friction as well as the weather and temperature changes we have in South Florida. Additionally, make sure that your weatherstripping is appropriate for its intended purpose. There are different types of sealing options available for windows, doors and masonry joints.
Once you have the proper weatherstripping in hand, follow these installation tips and you’ll save energy all year long:
- Clean and dry all surfaces where you plan to affix the weatherstripping.
- Check the temperature to make sure it’s above 60 degrees as this will help the adhesive form a stronger bond.
- Measure twice, and cut once. Be absolutely certain that your measurements include the entire door jam or window sill so that gaps will not be left around corners.
- Starting at a corner, slowly peel the paper backing from the weatherstripping and gently roll the material down the frame.
- Repeat this process on the opposing surface and make sure that both sides fit snugly and are fully compressed when the door or window is shut.
- Once installed, check to see that the operation of doors and windows is not impeded by your new seals. If they are, you will need to trim as needed.
Contact NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating to learn more about the many ways that you can secure your home’s energy envelope and increase your energy savings throughout the year. Since 1973, we’ve proudly served homeowners in St. Lucie, Martin, Palm Beach, and Indian River counties.