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Project Guides Want to learn a new skill? With thousands of how-to guides, you can find step-by-step instructions for all your projects at HomeDepot.com, Lowes.com and Ehow.com. Energy Efficient Upgrades How To: Weather Stripping There are numerous products for weather stripping around windows and doors. They can be classified into two groups: self-stick tapes and nail-on strips.
The highest quality and longest lasting of the self-stick tapes is EPDM (ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer) rubber. EPDM retains its elasticity and insulating qualities even after years of exposure to sub-zero temperatures. Another good choice is high density foam, which is also durable and long lasting. Closed-cell foam is waterproof, weather resistant and inexpensive but it does break down and will need to be replaced regularly. Open-cell foam can be compressed the most to seal even the narrowest of gaps, but it only for indoor use, as it quickly degrades when exposed to the elements. Vinyl V-strips are a substitute for spring bronze; they are extremely easy to install but also to wear out.
Nail-on strips are the best choice for wood windows as they don’t rely on adhesive and thus tend to stay in place over time. Gaps less than ¼ inch wide and relatively consistent in width are best sealed with spring bronze—a metal flange that is nailed in place and then “sprung” open to close the gap. A vinyl tubular gasket works well where the gaps are large or inconsistent in width. The product is rubber tubing with a flange for nailing. The flange is often reinforced with metal to prevent the soft vinyl from tearing. Felt weather stripping is also available but it is only suitable for indoor use, since it rots quickly when it gets wet.
Information courtesy of: www.hometips.com
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