How to Save Money by Replacing Threshold Gaskets

Threshold gaskets are flexible, synthetic strips that attach to the bottom edge of a door, where they block the flow of air through the space between the bottom of the door and the threshold. These gaskets help prevent the escape of cool air from your home in the summer and warm air in the winter. Replace your worn or cracked threshold gaskets so that your furnace, air conditioner or central-air system will run less often -- saving you money.

Things You'll Need

• Utility knife
• Tape measure
• Threshold gasket
• Pencil
• Double-sided adhesive foam

Instructions

1. Peel the worn or cracked threshold gasket from the bottom of the door. If it is difficult to remove, use a utility knife to pry the gasket from the door.

2. Measure the width of the door with a tape measure.

3. Transfer the measurement to the replacement threshold gasket and mark with a pencil.

4. Cut the threshold gasket in a straight line with a utility knife at the pencil mark.

5. Peel the protective strip from the back of the threshold gasket to reveal the adhesive backing.

6. Cut a piece of double-sided adhesive foam the same width and length of the threshold gasket (if the strip does not come with adhesive backing). Peel the protective strip from one side to expose the adhesive. Turn the adhesive foam strip over so the exposed side faces down; place it on the back of the gasket and press gently to secure it.

7. Remove the protective strip from the top side of the adhesive foam. Line up the threshold gasket, adhesive side up, with the bottom of the door. Press the gasket against the bottom of the door and hold for 30 seconds to allow the gasket to adhere to the door.

Tips & Warnings

• Test the threshold gasket by placing a fan outside the door and turning it on. Close the door and place shredded tissue paper in front of the door on the floor. If the tissue paper moves, the gasket is not secure.

• Exercise all proper precautions and safe-handling procedures when working with edged tools.

References

• "Reader's Digest Complete Do-It-Yourself Manual"; Family Handyman Editors; 2005