Spring cleaning your home can provide a fresh start for the new season, but don’t forget about the door! Whether you’re sealing out those April showers or cutting costs on utility bills, we’re checking off 4 ways to improve your door for spring.
Photo Credit: http://thewindowdoorandtrimstore.com/
Sill Adjustment/Cap Plugs
Adjusting your sill is one of the most important ways to ensure your door is in tip-top shape for spring. Not only does a proper seal prevent water leaks and air drafts inside your home, but a tight seal also protects your home from insects and other small critters you’ll want to keep outside. For traditional sills, use the adjustment screws to adjust your sill cap accordingly until gaps or spacing beneath your panel have disappeared.
Another great tip for spring is to replace the sill cap plugs. If a few of your cap plugs are missing, simply place new plugs over the screws to protect them from debris and damage. Covered screws will be easier to adjust as your home settles and throughout future seasons.
Don’t see cap plugs or screws? You may have the Z-Articulating Cap Sill™ which never needs adjusting! Learn more about this sill and others here.
Weatherstrip
Don’t just stop there – There’s so much more to a door than the sill. Prep your door for spring by also checking the weatherstrip located around the sides of the door frame. Does your weatherstrip bend or crumble when compressed? Is it flattened from long-term use? If so, it’s time to replace!
Finding the right weatherstrip is easy. Just remember, weatherstrip should have good memory, so a tight seal will be present at all times. No creasing or flattening allowed! Also, remember that weatherstrips with water-wicking abilities provide the best performance when protecting your doorway from moisture.
Door Bottom
Although replacing your door bottoms may seem a little tricky, this component is a door sill’s best partner-in-crime, and it helps protect your home from drafts, leaks and insects. If your door bottom is torn or has taken a beating from daily use, be sure to install a new one for spring.
Looking for ways to cut down on your energy bills? Your new door bottom, along with a properly adjusted sill, can improve your energy savings, keeping your air conditioning inside all season.
Endura Kerfed Double Bulb Door Bottom
Corner Pad
Last, and certainly not least, is the corner pad. This small but mighty door component plays an essential role in exterior door performance during spring. Corner pads enhance the seal around your exterior door and work to fight against leaks near the sill. If your corner pads are worn, torn or missing altogether, replace them by installing a corner pad on each side of your door frame directly above the sill.
Check out this BetterDoor Selection Guide for more information on choosing your weatherseals this season!