A draft at a door is easy to blame on old weatherstripping. Sometimes
the seal is worn; other times the door no longer closes squarely or the
latch doesn’t pull it snug. Look at the whole opening before sticking a
thicker strip onto one side.
On a windy day, feel around the perimeter and compare the reveal
around the closed door. Check the sweep and threshold for wear, and look
for daylight or water staining. Clean the contact surfaces, then select
replacement material that matches the door and does not keep the latch
from engaging. Follow the door manufacturer’s instructions. A garage
door bottom seal is a different part from the seal at a house entry
door.
The
Department of Energy’s weatherstripping guide describes common
locations and materials. If the door rubs, the frame is distorted, or
water repeatedly enters despite an intact seal, a qualified door or
exterior contractor should assess the cause. Don’t let a weatherstrip
repair conceal rot or movement at the threshold.
I keep local contractor contacts on Helpful
Resources and basic household tools on Homeowner
Tools & Supplies. Measure the opening and identify the existing
profile before ordering a roll.