Patio Door Seals Replacement
Over time, normal wear and tear or even underlying issues can cause the seals on patio doors to deteriorate and allow cold air to enter homes. Replacing the seals is a simple project that could help homeowners save money on energy bills.
The weather strip made of felt is simple to cut with scissors or a utility blade. It is available in various types and thicknesses, including pile strips made from different strands.
Bulb Threshold
A solid threshold can act as a thermal bridge which transfers heat and cold efficiently between the inside and outside. This can result in high energy bills, drafts and even the invasion of bugs. To prevent this from happening, think about using a threshold for frost that separates the solid material by inserting silicone or vinyl that create physical divisions that interrupt the flow of cold and heat.
Recent studies have shown that the threshold is actually less than 35 degrees Celsius. This temperature can be dangerous for people who are working outside or don't have access to indoor air conditioning. It's also dangerous for people who are elderly or have underlying health problems.
Use a candle or an incense stick by the threshold of your patio door on a windy morning to determine if it is sealing properly. If the smoke or flame is directing to the side the threshold isn't sealing properly and needs to be replaced with weather stripping, which will create a tighter seal. A U-shaped sweep that compresses against the threshold of the door after closing can be nailed or screwed to the bottom. This will prevent drafts, and shield from insects and other pests.
Felt
Felt, a fabric that is nonwoven composed of synthetic or natural fibers, is typically used to create the base layer of a door's weatherstrip. The fibers in Felt are interspersed to create a thick, matted fabric which is water-resistant, durable and soft. It's also fire-resistant and insulating, making it an excellent option for a variety of uses.
This weatherstrip is often installed between the door's frame and the door. The felt provides an encapsulated seal to stop drafts and air leakage. This is a concern for homeowners as well as cottagers, especially when the seasons change. Air leakage and drafts can lead to high energy bills. This issue can be easily solved by replacing the weatherstrip that is on the patio door.
The most popular weatherstripping used for patio doors is "felt." It comes in a variety of sizes and thicknesses that fit inside any standard patio doorframe. It's a nonwoven fabric unlike woven fabrics that have wefts and warps. This means it will not be brittle or lose its strength when cut. It has a dense and thick texture, making it a good insulation and soundproofing fabric.
It is believed that it was developed by nomadic tribes and it remains a vital part of a variety of traditions of different cultures. In Mongolia, felt is still being used to construct yurts as part of a tradition that goes back thousands of years. Felt is also used to create gorgeous coats and hats, as for craft materials and even rug pads.
To put on new felt on the doorframe, remove any weatherstripping you have on the doorframe using a screwdriver or utility knife. Scrape off any glue or adhesive. Then clean the area around the doorframe using an abrasive cloth and some mild cleaning solution such as rubbing alcohol to remove any dust or other debris. You can also make use of a tape measure to ensure you're preparing an exact and smooth surface for the new weatherstripping.
Weather Strip
Most patio doors feature a weather strip at the frame edge, which creates a more secure seal when the door is closed. As time passes the weather strip may get worn out or damaged. This allows air and moisture to enter the home, damaging flooring and furnishings. The weather strip can be replaced to stop drafts, improve energy efficiency, and secure stored items.
This project can be accomplished with a variety of materials including felt which is cost-effective to high-performance polyurethane. When selecting a material take into consideration durability and longevity as well as ease of installation. Self-adhesive tape is an easy option for DIYers, whereas interlocking weather strips made of metal require more expertise and skill to install.
Before starting the project, inspect the old weather strip for signs of deterioration or damage. If the seal appears worn or damaged and needs to be replaced, it must be replaced with a new one in order to ensure its durability. Once the old weather strip is removed, wipe down the area to get rid of any remaining "sticky goo" or adhesive residue that could hinder a clean and accurate finish.
To make sure that the new weather strip seal is properly fitted, the length and the width of the frame must be measured. Use a sharp utility knife or scissors to cut the new weather strip, using the tips of a scrap as a reference. Make sure the cut is clear and straight A sharp or angled cut can cause an ill-fitting door seal.
Once the new weather strip is in place and you are able to test its functionality, be sure to carefully test it. Open and shut the door a few times, ensuring that it creates a tight watertight seal on all corners and sides. If any holes or gaps are found, seal the gap using caulk approved for outdoor use.
This step should be completed at night, after the sunset has gone and the door has been shut and secured. A family member or friend can shine a flashlight around the door's perimeter. If replacing window seals see any light shining through, the door's weather strip is in need of repair or adjustment.