I have purchased some spring-bronze weatherstripping. It is manufactured by Dorbin Metal Strip Company. This stuff has apparently been around forever but there are no written instructions for installing it.
It has to be fool-proof for me because after I place nails at 2″ centers my entire doorframe, I don’t want to have to remove them.
Have you used this product? I would appreciate any testimonials and installation tips.
Thank you very much.
Replies
Many times I have used this age old product. The trick is to lay the stripping out so it doesn't kink and have all your reveals on the door as even as possible. It will last for your lifetime and the next 5. I used to install the old style interlocking weatherstripping as well on windows too. This is rather labor intensive and you have to know how, but it is time tested and lasts a lifetime. I even have some hand planes that were made specifically for weatherstripping by Stanley.
I don't like the stuff. It looks funky and it can make the door really hard to close. On the other hand, it does a pretty good job of blocking drafts.
To install it, pre-cut each length and cut openings or notches for the strike plate and/or dead bolt. The nailed side goes on the inswing side of the jamb. And yes, you really do need nails every 2" or so because the stuff is reluctant to lay flat.
I much prefer the stop molding with the built-in weather stripping. If you can cope or miter an inside corner, I think this weather stripping is actually easier to apply. It also looks much better, seals just as well (if not better) and doesn't interfere with door operation. It costs about $20 at Home Depot or $25 for better stuff at a regular building supply place.
-Don