Caulking and Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping

Use weather stripping where one surface moves relative to another. Felt and foam are commonly used, however rubber is more effective at keeping the heat in and it lasts longer. Apply weather stripping to:

• Doors
  
  
• Windows
  
  
• Attic hatches

Caulking

Caulking prevents warm air from escaping into cavities in the walls and roof, and reduces the risk of moisture damage. Apply caulking inside your home to seal spaces, cracks and holes around:

• Dryer vents
  
  
• Bathroom fans
  
  
• Plumbing vents
  
  
• Spaces where floor joists meet the tops of basement walls
  
  
• Spaces where walls meet the floor
  
  
• Air conditioning units/vents
  
  
• Kitchen range hood
  
  
• Windows, doors and baseboards (If you’re planning to paint, first remove window trim or baseboards and seal the walls behind them. If possible, expose the window and door framing and seal any cracks and holes)

Use caulking outside to seal around:

• Fireplace chimney
  
  
• Openings for services such as water, telephone, cable and gas lines, as well as electrical feeds and outlets
  
  
• Furnace air intake and exhaust

When choosing among the many types of caulking and weather stripping on the market, remember cheaper brands may need replacing more often. To save yourself time and money in the long run, talk to your building supplier before picking a product, and follow the manufacturers' instructions.