how to stop air from leaking around a door 
Concord, Ontario 

Why Air Leakage Around Doors Happens in Concord

Air leaking around doors is a common issue for many homeowners in Concord, especially when the weather gets colder. You might notice drafts or feel cold spots near your door edges. This happens because doors aren’t always perfectly sealed, allowing air to sneak in or out. Over time, even small gaps or cracks can let in enough air to make your home less comfortable and your heating bills higher. Understanding why this happens can make it easier to stop the leaks.

One of the main reasons air leaks around a door is because the weatherstripping or seals become old or damaged. Weatherstripping is the material fitted around the door frame to block cold air. Damage can occur due to wear and tear, exposure to sunlight, or moisture. Also, if your door is not installed correctly or if it has shifted over time, gaps can form between the door and the frame. Even minor misalignment can result in noticeable drafts. Doors that are made from materials prone to shrinking or expanding with temperature changes may also cause leaks.

How to Check for Air Leaks Properly

Before fixing air leakage around a door, it’s helpful to identify exactly where the air is coming from. One easy way to check is to feel along the edges of your door with your hand when it’s cooler outside and warmer inside. If you feel cold air coming in, you’ve found a leak. Another method is to hold a lit candle or a stick of incense close to the door edges. If the flame flickers or the smoke moves in a particular direction, that means air is passing through. These simple tests help you spot small gaps or areas that need attention.

Another option is to use a dollar bill test. Close the door on a dollar bill and try to pull it out without tearing it. If the bill slips out easily, the seal isn’t tight enough. Moving the bill around the edges can help find the spots where the air might be leaking in. Identifying those spots is key because you can then target your repair efforts where they will work best.

Simple Ways to Stop Air from Leaking Around Your Door in Concord

Fixing air leaks around doors doesn’t have to be complicated. One of the easiest fixes is replacing or adding weatherstripping. There are several types of weatherstripping available, such as foam tape, felt strips, and rubber seals. Foam tape is affordable and easy to install yourself. It compresses when the door is closed, creating a tighter seal. Before applying new weatherstripping, make sure the door surface is clean and dry. Remove any old or damaged weatherstripping first so the new material sticks well.

Another useful product is a door sweep. It attaches to the bottom of your door and stops air from passing underneath. Door sweeps come in various materials like rubber or vinyl and can be installed using simple screws or adhesive. It’s important to choose one that fits your door’s size and style, so it creates an effective barrier without interfering with the door’s movement.

You can also inspect the door frame for cracks or holes and fill them with caulk. Caulking is a sealant that fills gaps and prevents air movement. Use a caulk designed for outdoor or indoor use, depending on where the leak is. Applying caulk carefully along the edges of the frame helps block drafts coming from outside the house.

While some air leakage fixes are easy to do on your own, sometimes the problem requires specialist help. If your door is old or badly damaged, weatherstripping might not be enough. It could be time to think about replacing your door with a new, energy-efficient model. In that case, the professionals at Everest Windows and Doors in Concord have experience in door sales and installation that can make sure you get the right fit and quality.

More Ways to Maintain Door Seals Over Time

Maintaining good seals around your door is something you should keep in mind all year round. Weatherstripping and door sweeps don’t last forever and might need to be replaced every few years. Check the condition of these materials regularly, especially before the winter months when cold air leaks become more noticeable. Regular maintenance helps avoid bigger problems and keeps your home comfortable.

Also, make sure your door’s hardware is working correctly. Hinges, locks, and handles should allow the door to close tightly without gaps forming. Sometimes tightening screws or adjusting the door’s position can make a big difference. If you notice the door sticks or doesn’t close all the way, it might be a sign that adjustment is needed.

For anyone interested in learning more about the options available for doors and windows in Concord, or who wants to plan a project to improve home insulation, visiting trusted local resources can be very helpful. For example, the team at Everest Windows and Doors provides great information on different window styles. They also have useful details about various door selections at Everest Windows and Doors. Additionally, to understand the many ways to customize these features, check out the options highlighted at Everest Windows and Doors Options.

Why Choose Everest Windows and Doors in Concord

When air leaks seem tricky or if you want to improve your home’s energy efficiency significantly, professional help is a smart choice. The experts at Everest Windows and Doors in Concord can assess your current doors and offer solutions tailored to your needs. Their team specializes in sales, service, and installation, helping customers pick the best products and ensuring a clean, professional installation that seals your home against drafts.

Having a reliable local company handle your doors means you get reliable advice and support, plus access to quality materials made to suit the Concord climate. Whether you need repairs, new weatherstripping, or a full door replacement, Everest Windows and Doors is a dependable resource for these projects.