Weatherstripping may not be the most glamorous part of home maintenance, but it plays a big role in keeping your house energy-efficient and comfortable year-round. When it starts to fail, you could be losing money on heating and cooling without even realizing it.
If you’re not sure whether it’s time to replace your weatherstripping, here are five signs to look for. Identifying these early can help prevent energy loss, moisture problems, and costly repairs down the line.
You Feel Drafts Around Doors and Windows
If you stand near a closed window or exterior door and feel cool air coming through, that’s a clear sign your weatherstripping is no longer doing its job. This often happens in winter when cold air seeps in – or in summer, when your cooled air escapes.
| How to Test? Hold a tissue near the frame and see if it flutters. If it does, air is leaking. |
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Drafts may seem minor, but over time they can cause your HVAC system to work overtime, increasing your utility bills.
You Can See Daylight or Water Leaking In
Visible light shining through the edges of your door or window is a strong indicator that your weatherstripping is worn, shrunk, or missing entirely. Water intrusion is another sign – if you notice dampness or puddles near a door after rain, your seal has failed.
Moisture seepage isn’t just uncomfortable; it can lead to mold, warped frames, and other structural damage if left unresolved.
Your Energy Bills Are Going Up
An unexplained spike in your heating or cooling costs might be coming from small leaks around your doors and windows. Worn-out weatherstripping lets outside air in and conditioned air out, forcing your HVAC to run longer to maintain a consistent temperature.
If your thermostat is fine and your insulation is intact, check your seals next. Replacing weatherstripping is a cost-effective fix that often pays for itself in energy savings.
Noise from Outside Has Increased
When seals break down, sound leaks in just like air and moisture. If you’re hearing more street noise or outside conversations than usual, the gaps around your windows and doors could be to blame.
Weatherstripping acts as a sound barrier. Once it flattens or deteriorates, it no longer cushions or blocks those vibrations effectively.
The Weatherstripping Looks Worn or Cracked
Take a close look at the material itself. Foam strips may appear flattened or torn. Rubber gaskets may be cracked, brittle, or discolored. Adhesive strips might be peeling away from the surface.
If the seal doesn’t bounce back when pressed or no longer aligns properly when the door or window closes, it’s time for a replacement.
What to Do Next: Replacing Weatherstripping
The good news? Replacing weatherstripping is an easy DIY fix. All you need is:
- A tape measure to get accurate lengths
- The right material (foam, rubber, vinyl, or a door sweep)
- Scissors or a utility knife
- A clean surface for proper adhesion
Look for weatherstripping options that match your application: door bottoms, window frames, or garage doors. Adhesive-backed foam is ideal for quick fixes. Rubber and vinyl are better for high-traffic doors that need durability.
DK Hardware offers a wide range of weatherstripping products for doors, windows, and garages – perfect for stopping drafts, improving comfort, and saving energy year-round.
About the Author
DK Hardware is one of USA’s largest online retailers of hardware and home improvement products. With decades of experience serving homeowners, DIYers, and contractors, DK Hardware provides reliable solutions for energy efficiency, seasonal maintenance, and everyday upgrades. From weatherstripping and door hardware to lighting and decor, we help customers create comfortable, functional spaces year-round. Explore our collection and find everything you need to make your home more efficient and secure.
