How to Insulate an Entry Door to Save on Energy Bills

While an insulated entry door is one of the essential parts of a home, they also require annual maintenance, including insulation. Every year, insulating an entry door can reduce heating and cooling costs, prevent pests from entering, and help you and your loved ones feel more secure. The best part about entry door insulation is that you can do it yourself.

If you’re ready for new entry doors or need help with insulation, The professionals at Master Seal are here for you. Serving the D.C. and greater Baltimore area, our window and door company provides free consultations and skilled security gate installations alongside storm, security, patio, and entry door installation. Our team is ready, no matter the style, size, or project. Call us now at 855.608.1580 to set up a free consultation.

Do I Need Door Insulation?

Before installing insulation, it’s essential to choose the proper insulation for your door’s needs. With the door closed and shades drawn, look for lights coming from the top, sides, and bottom of your door. Hold your hand up to the doorjamb, along the top, and along the bottom of the door to feel for air. When it’s dark, hold a candle up to the doorjamb to see if it flickers. Any changes in airflow or light leaks will show a spot that needs insulation.

How to Install Entry Door Insulation

Once you have found air or light leaks, you can pick the right door insulation for your needs. Most insulation kits will come with specific directions. Here are some tips on installing the most common types of insulation.

Weather Stripping

Weatherstripping is the most common insulation around any door. While it comes in many styles, you’ll want to remove old weather stripping and wash the doorjamb before installing new foam. Most foam weather stripping will expand within the first few hours of installation and then degrade over time, making it an annual or seasonal DIY project. Once you measure and cut your weatherstripping, follow the instructions to install. Some may require a screwdriver, while others are adhesive.

Felt

Felt strips are an easy, removable, biodegradable option for insulating cracks or crevices. If you have one spot of weatherstripping that still leaks light or air, it can be bolstered with felt. Some felt strips have an adhesive back. However, most are nailed into place with finishing nails. Most times, felt can nestle between the weather stripping and a doorjamb without adhesive.

Door Sweep

Door sweeps vary in style and installation. While some slip under the door to create a door log and sweep, others screw into the door or stick to the door with adhesive. When choosing a sweep, consider the overall look and weather changes. Extreme weather changes will make it difficult for an adhesive sweep to stay in place.

You’ll want to measure your door, cut the sweep, and install as directed. Some sweeps are designed for the interior, while others are for the exterior. It’s important to install a sweep in the right direction.

These are only a few ways to insulate your door any time of year. If leaks persist, it’s time to call a pro for alignment, professional installation, and maybe a new door.

Insulate Your Entry Door Today

Not sure where to start with entry door insulation? We can help. Based in Parkville, Maryland, Master Seal offers aluminum, steel, wood, vinyl, iron, or fiberglass door installation across the DMV. Our door installation service areas include:

Baltimore City
Washington, D.C.
Baltimore County
Montgomery County

Since 1994, we’ve helped over 40,000 customers improve the value and security of their homes. With a range of door, window, and home improvement services, we’re here to improve your home’s energy efficiency, security, and value with the perfectly insulated entry door.