How to Stop Air From Getting Through the Bottom of the Door
When a door does not fit properly into an opening, there is often a large gap remaining between the floor and the bottom of the door. If this gap is left unsealed, cold air can seep into the house, creating cold drafts that decrease energy efficiency. To eliminate this problem, homeowners can use special hardware devices to seal the bottom of a door and minimize air leaks. There are many different options available, most of which are relatively affordable and easy to install. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Weatherstripping
- Door sweeps
- Threshold
- Auto door bottom (auto sweep)
- Drill
- Router
Instructions
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Use a threshold to fill large gaps. A threshold is a wood, metal or rubber device that covers the floor under the door. Find a unit that is the correct length for your opening, and check that it is also a good fit in terms of height. If the gap below your door is 1/2 inch for example, you will need a threshold that is lower than 1/2 inch so the door still has enough clearance to swing. Fasten the threshold in place using screws or masonry anchors, depending on the type of floors you have in your home.
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Add a sweep. Door sweeps are an effective way to seal air leaks between the door and the floor or threshold. Look for a surface-mounted unit that can be screwed to the base of your door. Neoprene or vinyl units tend to block the most air, but may crack in extremely cold temperatures. Nylon brush sweeps may allow some air through but are very durable. Use a hacksaw to cut it to the correct width, then install it on the exterior of the door using screws or nails.
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Consider using gaskets or weatherstripping to block air at the corners. Even after you have added a threshold and sweep, air can seep in through the corners. Use a stick-on felt or neoprene seal to complement the hardware at the base of your door. Stick these seals between the door and frame, making sure that the door can still close tightly without interference from the weatherstripping.
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Choose an automatic door bottom if your existing door sweep is dragging the floor too much. In homes with thick carpeting, the sweep may drag on the floor and make the door tough to operate. An auto door bottom contains a sweep that retracts when the door is open, then automatically moves into place once the door is closed. Surface-mounted units can be mounted on the exterior side of the door using just a drill and screws. Turn the adjustment screw at the base of the device to set the height of the sweep.
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Look for recessed automatic door sweeps if you do not like the look of surface-mounted versions. When mounted on the face of the door, these devices can be slightly bulky and may interfere with other hardware. To recess a door bottom, take the door off the hinges and router out the bottom to fit the unit you have chosen. Screw the device into the base of the door and adjust the height of the sweep. The sweep will retract automatically to prevent dragging on the floor and will keep air out of your home without changing the appearance of your door.
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