What Is Weatherstripping?

Quick answer

The squishy seal around a door frame that the closed door presses against, so outside air stays outside.

Weatherstripping in context

Compressible sealing material (foam tape, silicone bulb, or metal-backed V-strip) installed around a door or window frame so the closed door squeezes it and blocks airflow. Foam is cheapest and fades in a season or two of heavy use; silicone and V-strip cost a few dollars more and last years on an exterior door.

Fixes that use this

Outdoors & Seasonal

How to Replace a Worn Door Sweep Before Winter

If cold air comes in under the door, the sweep is probably torn or missing. Replace it in 20 minutes for $8–$15 and stop the floor-level draft.

Time20 min Cost$8–$15 easy

Related terms

Door sweep

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