Weatherproofing

Tools:

wire hanger
tissue
putty knife
pry bar
utility knife
hacksaw
aluminum and vinyl weather stripping
door sweep
screwdriver
hammer
nails
caulking gun
caulk
spray foam insulation
pressure-treated lumber for new threshold
foam outlet covers
hand saw
power drill
safety glasses

1. You can track down drafts by draping a tissue over a coat hanger and holding it in front of a door. When the tissue moves you'll know outside air is seeping in.

2. Remove the old weather stripping material with a putty knife and hammer (figure A).

3. Use old material as a template to cut new pieces to size. Use a sharp utility knife to mark the pieces, then cut to length using a hacksaw.

4. Close the door and position new stripping so it covers the gap (figure B).

5. Tack in the new pieces of weather stripping with nails.

1. Remove rubber gasket running along top of the old threshold using a screwdriver (figure C). You might also need a hammer and pry bar to remove metal base.

2. Scrape up any other material to leave a nice clean surface. Vacuum up dust and debris.

3. Use the old threshold as a template and draw the new threshold on a pressure treated board using a knife rather than a pencil for a sharper line (figure D).

4. Clamp the new threshold to a workbench and cut to length using a hand saw.

5. Test fit the new threshold and if it fits drill pilot holes for mounting screws. Remember to wear safety glasses while drilling.

6. Apply water sealant to the ends of the threshold to prevent water damage.

7. Apply liquid construction adhesive to the floor and to the underside of the new threshold.

• Fill gaps around windows and doors with silicone caulk. Fill wider gaps with foam insulation (figure F). Also fill gaps around outdoor spigots to further seal your home from cold air and keep out insects.

• A foam insulation pad mounted behind switch plates and electrical outlet covers will keep warm air in and cold air out (figure G).

• Install a door sweep along the inside bottom of a door to provide a tighter seal against the threshold.