If you've ever noticed an unsightly gap between the bottom of a door and the doorframe, you've probably wondered the best way to remedy the problem. Thankfully, manufacturers sell door bottoms and door sweeps that will solve the issues that these gaps present.
The gap at the bottom of your doors is more than just a cosmetic issue. Caused by ill-fitting doors and the natural settling of your home, the openings also allow cold air to blow inside during the winter and will suck air-conditioned air from your home in the summer. These gaps also allow for easy entry, enabling small rodents, insects, and spiders to more easily invade your home.
Now that you know why having a door sweep or a door bottom is important, you're probably going to have some questions about which type to install. We've researched the various types of door bottoms and door seals and share our findings in this post. For a description of each type, as well as some pros and cons of each, read ahead to see what we've discovered.
1.Brush Door Sweep
Brush door sweeps are typically used on the outside of an exterior door. The "sweep" carries away dust and debris while also acting as a seal. This seal keeps cold air from getting into the home during the winter months. The cons of this type are that the brushes will wear out over time, and they aren't as efficient as flat door sweeps.
To see this brand of brush door sweep on Amazon, click here.
2.Flat Door Sweep
Flat door sweeps are another form of exterior door attachment, similar to the brush sweep style. These are available in nylon, silicone, and vinyl and have an aesthetic that is more appealing than the brush sweeps. While this style might take a little longer to install, users, find them a great alternative to brush sweeps.
To view this brand of flat door sweep on Amazon, click here.
3.Tubular Door Sweep
Tubular door sweeps securely fit under the bottom of the door, forming a sweep on both sides of it. These work on both interior and exterior doors but will not last as long as brush or flat door sweeps. They are easy to install and replace, making them popular among homeowners. Users tend to use these more for interior doorways, as they block odors coming from adjoining rooms.
To view this brand of tubular door sweep on Amazon, click here.
4.Automatic Door Bottoms
Automatic door bottoms use adjustable plungers that create an automatic seal around the bottom of your door. These plungers work to create this seal on both even and uneven surfaces, making this type of door bottom better at blocking out air, odors, and smoke from the outside. This is also a great door bottom for keeping invading pests at bay.
To see this brand of automatic door bottom on Amazon, click here.
5.V Strips
V-strips are made for doors with tiny gaps. This effectively keeps out air and insects/spiders, and it also has a long useful life. V strips can be made from metal or rubber, are easy to install, and are not as noticeable as other door sweeps and door bottoms. While they are inexpensive, they won't work well if you are trying to cover a large gap.
To see this brand of v-strip on Amazon, click here.
6. Wrap Around/U-shaped Door Sweep
Wrap-around/U-shaped door sweeps are manufactured to have a sweep on the inside and outside the door, giving the doorway a double layer of protection for keeping out air, smoke, and pests. While they require installation that a traditional door bottom would not, this style is easier to place than most. Many models of wrap-around or u-shaped door sweeps can also be painted to match or accent the color of the door that it's attached to.
For this model of u-shaped door sweep on Amazon, click here.
7.L-Shaped Door Shoes
L-shaped door shoes are another type that is specifically manufactured for exterior doors. This type of door bottom also requires careful installation but effectively keeps out smoke, air, and pests. Drip caps on most models will also help divert water away from your doorway. They are made with durable metal materials that will ensure a long product life.
To see this model of l-shaped door shoe on Amazon, click here.
8.Weather Stripping
Weatherstripping (or gasketing) is a much more inexpensive method of closing the gap between your door and your threshold. This method is very easy to install and can be applied with brands that are self-adhesive. This is a quick and easy way to fix your gap issue, although it does have some caveats. This style doesn't last nearly as long as other door stops or door bottoms aren't as aesthetically appealing. But it works well for someone on a budget or if you need a temporary solution.
To view this brand of weather stripping on Amazon, click here.
9. Foam Stripping
Foam stripping is a specific type of weatherstripping used for doors and windows. Very similar to the above-mentioned weather stripping, it tends to be thicker and more durable. It's inexpensive and easy to install and is almost as good as other door bottoms and sweeps for keeping out air and pests.
To view this brand of foam stripping on Amazon, click here.
10. Felt Door Bottoms
Felt door bottoms (more commonly known as felt weather stripping) are very similar to the weather stripping and foam stripping mentioned earlier in this post. Quick and easy to install, felt gives the user an option that is flame resistant, long-lasting, and inexpensive.
To see this brand of felt door bottoms on Amazon, click here.
In Conclusion
We've learned that there are multiple styles of door bottoms and door sweeps available to homeowners today. While most of them serve the same functions, some are specific for exterior doors, while others will also work with interior doors and windows. Knowing what you need one for will help you decide on the right type.
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