WEATHERIZE YOUR HOME

Scroll down to see a step-by-step overview of this project.

TOOLS YOU’LL NEED:

  1. Utility knife
  2. Caulk gun
  3. Caulking tool

 

MATERIALS YOU’LL NEED:

  1. Caulk
  2. Weather stripping
  3. Door sweep

STEP 1: Check for Cracks

Homes both old and new often have cracks around doors and windows, and these gaps are major sources of heat loss. Applying caulk and weather stripping around windows and doors will both protect and lower your home’s overall heating cost. 

It is also important to check for leaks, which you will notice either in cracks of light beneath doors on sunny days or cool air coming in from windows on blustery days.

An easy way to detect leaks around doors/windows in your home is to turn off your A/C unit, close all doors and windows, and turn off any fans and stove vents. Next light a stick of incense and pass along door/window edges, and smoke is sucked out wherever leaks are present.


STEP 2: How to Caulk

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Caulking to seal gaps around doors and windows is an easy, energy-saving DIY project any homeowner can take on to lower their utility bill.

There are several basic types of caulking compounds available to tackle a variety of sealing jobs:

  1. Latex caulk is a cost-efficient option that is easy to work with and can be painted if needed.
  2. Silicone caulk offers good flexibility, durability and adhesion, providing an excellent seal against the outside elements.
  3. Polyurethane caulk is very adhesive and durable but can be more difficult to work with.  
  4. Hybrid products offer you the best of each technology, without the drawbacks.

Most caulking products come in a 10-ounce cartridge and are applied with a caulking gun. Before applying a new layer of caulk, remove any older caulking with a utility knife or scraper.

When you’re ready to start caulking, first load the caulk gun by pulling back the plunger and placing the tube of caulk into the chamber, bottom end first.  Squeeze the trigger until it makes contact with the tube.

Apply pressure by squeezing the gun until the product makes its way to the end of the nozzle. Holding the gun at a 45-degree angle to ensure the gap is covered, squeeze the trigger and use enough caulk to fill the gap. When finished, release the trigger at the end of the seam, pushing the tip of the nozzle into the corner to cut off the strip of caulk and twist slightly as you lift the nozzle.


STEP 3: Weather Stripping Doors & Windows

Weather stripping doors and windows is another cost-effective way to reduce energy waste. Weather stripping products come in many different forms and can be made up of a combination of materials.

To determine the type of weather stripping that will be the most effective in the area you are trying to seal, you’ll want to consider several factors: the amount of friction withstood, exposure to weather and any cosmetic concerns you may have with it being seen. 

  • Adhesive-backed foam tape is sold in rolls in varying widths and thicknesses with a sticky back.
  • V-strip is a durable plastic or metal strip folded into a V shape that springs open to bridge gaps.
  • Felt is another great choice for weather stripping around a door or window sash, or in the doorjamb.
  • Tubular rubber is an effective air barrier for the base of doors and windows, and the top or bottom of a window sash.

Lastly, any well-sealed door requires door sweeps. Cut the door sweep to your door's width and install it along the bottom of the interior side of the door with screws.

Other Areas You May Want to Weatherize:

  • Around attic stairs
  • Fireplaces
  • Pipes
  • Outdoor spigot/faucets
  • Electrical outlets and switches
  • Attic and floor above a basement

 

By weatherizing, you can save up to $200 a year in heating and cooling costs – or about 10 percent on your energy bill – by sealing and insulating your home with ENERGY STAR-rated products.