Imagine you left holes in your roof for when it rained, or left windows open to let falling snow come in — crazy, right?
No one would be so negligent to let the extreme weather harm their property in that way. So why are so many of us lax when it comes to keeping our doors in tip-top shape to protect from extreme weather?
Weatherstripping your doors may seem useless and time-consuming; however, keeping your weatherstripping up-to-date can save money and time in the long run. Here are three reasons you should check the weather stripping on your exterior doors and replace it when needed.
1. KEEP THE HEAT (OR COLD) OUT
Because its works hard against extremes, weatherstripping needs maintenance more often than your door or other hardware. When it is working properly, weatherstipping works effectively to seal a door. However if weatherstripping maintenance is neglected, your entrances will let in all the extreme weather that you are trying to keep out. Not only can this increase your energy bill, it can also be the source of annoyance for employees and customers.
2. SECURITY AND EASE OF USE
When the plastic of a v-strip (the weather stripping on the edge of the door frame) is tearing it can get caught inside or outside of a room. Bunching or holes in weatherstripping can cause a door to close improperly, or even remain open. Not only annoying, damaged weatherstripping can stop your doors from securing your building.
3. FIRE CODE AND INSPECTION
A fire-rated door is not the only component of doors and hardware that a building needs to adhere to, to meet fire code. Weatherstripping can fight against the door at times if damaged, causing the door to not close completely. By properly sealing the door, vulnerable areas between the door and frame are protected. Different types of weatherstripping options, certified as “fire-rated”, have been tested for smoke and draft control, or sound tested.
IT’S ALL ABOUT TIMING
Exterior doors have to face all kinds of abuse and use in one year. The extreme hot or cold weather can have negative effects on the door, the hinges and even the locks. Proper door maintenance can do a lot to prevent damage to the door itself, and weatherstripping can keep the extreme temperatures outside your building! Take advantage of the fall and spring weather and make sure your exterior doors are functioning properly.