When it comes to home maintenance, summer is the perfect time to check your weather stripping. With temperatures rising, your cooling system is working harder than ever. But if your doors and windows aren’t properly sealed, all that cool air can slip right out, and hot air can sneak right in. This not only makes your home less comfortable but also increases your energy bills.

Why Weather Stripping Matters in Summer

Weather stripping helps seal the gaps around your doors and windows. It keeps cooled air in and outdoor heat, wind noise, and dust out. When weather stripping starts to wear down, it leads to energy loss and makes your home less energy efficient. That means your air conditioner has to work overtime, driving up your utility bills and shortening the life of your HVAC system.

Signs It’s Time for Replacement

There are a few easy ways to tell if your weather stripping needs attention. 

Here are some signs to look for:

• You feel a draft when closing doors or windows.
• There’s visible wear and tear, such as cracks or flattening.
• You hear more wind noise than usual.
• Your energy bills are climbing.
• You see sunlight peeking through the edges of a door or window frame.

If you notice any of these signs, it may be time for weather stripping maintenance or full replacement.

How to Inspect Weather Stripping

Doing a quick check yourself is simple and doesn’t take much time. Start by opening and closing each door or window slowly. If you notice it doesn’t close tightly or feels loose around the edges, inspect the frame for gaps. You can also run your hand along the edge to feel for air movement. Shine a flashlight from the inside at night—if light escapes through the edges, that’s a red flag.

Before you install weather stripping or make any replacements, be sure to clean the surface of the frame with mild soap and water. This helps any new material stick better.

Choosing the Right Weather Stripping

There are several types of weather stripping to choose from, depending on your needs.

These include:

1. Foam Tape – Great for window sashes and irregular gaps.
2. Tubular Rubber – Commonly used around doors and storm doors for a snug seal.
3. Felt Strips – An affordable option, best for areas with low friction.

When shopping, think about the factors to consider when choosing a product, like durability, ease of installation, and the type of door frame or window frame you have. You’ll likely need a utility knife to trim pieces to fit.

Stay Cool With Smart Upgrades

If your home still feels drafty after replacing weather stripping, it might be time to go a step further. Upgrading your windows with energy-efficient models from The Window Depot can offer long-term savings and comfort. Our experts can help you find the perfect match for your home, so you stay cool, no matter how hot it gets.

Visit The Window Depot today to explore our full selection of energy-efficient window and door options.