|
home /
home
library /
interior projects /
weather stripping
Weather Stripping
Homeowners everywhere are trying to discover
ways to lower their monthly energy bills. Families usually
resort to making sure lights and appliances are turned off
when they are not being used, and that the thermostat is
not being abused. What they don't know is that an estimated
60% of energy is used by heating and cooling.
By investing in weather-stripping, you
will save the amount of money needed to pay for the cost
of installation and continue to save afterwards. Also, weather-stripping
will bring a greater sense of comfort to your home by trapping
heat in the winter and cold air in the summer.
Air leakage is one of the top reasons for
energy waste. Areas that require major weather stripping
attention include all operable windows and doors, even doors
leading to attics basements, and garages. Before you decide
to weatherize these areas, certain elements must be carefully
examined.
Weather stripping will not be as effective
until you control all of your homes air leaks. Many of these
leaks exist within the attic. However, an air leak can exist
in any opening between your walls and floors. A professional
insulation contractor can assist you in locating some of
these hard to find air leaks.
Ventilation is another important factor
to consider before weather stripping. Ventilation is essential
because it relates to moisture control and indoor air pollution.
Keep these aspects in mind before you begin to weatherize.
Once you have successfully located all
of the areas in which you want to weatherize, you must then
decide what kind of weather stripping to buy. Weather stripping
is a resilient insulating strip of material placed around
the joints of doors and windows to reduce air infiltration
into the home. Generally, these strips are made from vinyl,
metal, rubber, felt or foam. Each material varies in durability
and cost.
Foam and felt strips are typically the
least expensive. Unfortunately, they are not very durable
either. Felt has a life expectancy of only 1 to 2 years.
You should refrain from using these materials in areas that
receive a lot of friction and exposure to weather. They
are not moisture resistant materials.
Vinyl and metal are both durable materials
that can handle heavy friction and abrasion. Vinyl tends
to be more expensive than metal, foam and felt. It is also
moisture resistant and easier to install. Metal, on the
other hand, is both low in cost and extremely durable.
|
