Fix-It Chick: How to install bronze weather strip

Look at any old door and chances are you will find remnants of V-shaped bronze weather strip nailed along the inside edges of the door frame.

Bronze weather strip is perhaps the oldest type of weather strip available for doors and it is still sold today because it works really well. Bronze weather strip is more expensive than other types of weather stripping and it is more difficult to install, but given its longevity and energy efficiency, it pays off in the long run.

Step 1: Remove all traces of previous weather stripping along the inside of the door jamb. Assure that the inside door frame is smooth and debris free.

Step 2: Open the door and place the edge of the first piece of weather strip tightly against the door stop along the hinge side of the door frame with the V-point facing inside and the V-opening facing outdoors.

Step 3: Use a pair of needle nose pliers to hold the tiny nail in place atop one of the perforated nail holes on the inside of the weather strip. Hammer the nail through the weather strip and into the jamb far enough so it will not fall out when released from the grip of the pliers.

Step 4: Use a nail set and hammer to set the nail into the wood with its head tight against the weather strip.

Step 5: Continue this process to set the rest of the nails into place along the hinge side of the jamb. It is easiest if the first nail is set near the top of the strip and the second nail is set near the bottom of the strip before setting the rest of the nails.

Step 6: Install the second section of weather strip on the opposite side of the door in the same manner. Keep the underside edge of the weather strip tight against the door stop for optimal efficiency.

Step 7: Use tin snips to cut away the bronze weather strip around the strike plate just enough for the door to latch effortlessly.

Step 8: Use the tin snips to miter the edges on the last piece of weather strip so it fits nicely along the top of the door jamb. Nail it into place along the header of the door jamb.

Step 9: Check to make sure the door shuts securely and enjoy a less drafty existence.


— Have a question? Email Linda Cottin at hardware@sunflower.com.