How to winterize a sliding door

As winter approaches, it’s important to make sure your home is prepared for the cold weather. Sliding doors are an often overlooked area. Sliding doors are notorious for letting in drafts and cold air, making it difficult to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. However, with a few simple steps, you can winterize your sliding doors and keep out the cold. In this blog, we will discuss some tips and tricks for preparing your sliding doors for winter.

First and foremost, it’s important to check for drafts or leaks around your sliding door. This is usually caused by worn weather stripping or gaps in the door frame. Start by checking the weather stripping on the edge of the door. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, be sure to replace the weatherstripping to create a tight seal. You can find weatherstripping at your local hardware store and it’s relatively easy to install with just a few tools.

Next, take a closer look at the door frame and track. Over time, the frame and rails can become warped or damaged, creating gaps that allow cold air to seep in. If you find any gaps, you can use sealant or caulk to fill the space and create a tight seal. This will help prevent drafts and stop cold air from entering your home.

In addition to checking for drafts, it’s also a good idea to install draft stoppers at the bottom of your sliding doors. Draft stoppers are a simple but effective way to block cold air and prevent it from entering your home. You can buy a draft stopper at most home improvement stores, or you can make one yourself using foam pipe insulator and some fabric. Simply slide the draft stopper along the bottom of the door to create a barrier against cold air.

Another important step in winterizing your sliding doors is adding insulation. Adding insulation to the door itself can help keep both cold and warm air out. There are a few different options for insulating your sliding doors, including using foam insulation strips or installing a window insulation kit. These products are relatively cheap and easy to install, and they can go a long way in keeping your home comfortable during the winter months.

If you have a screen door in addition to a sliding door, it is best to remove the screen door during the winter and replace it with a storm door. Storm doors provide extra insulation and protection from cold weather, helping to keep your home warm and cozy. Many storm doors also come with built-in weatherstripping and insulation, making them an effective barrier against drafts and cold air.

Finally, it’s important to keep your sliding doors well maintained throughout the winter months. This includes regular cleaning and lubrication of tracks and rollers to ensure smooth operation. You should also check for any signs of wear or damage and make any necessary repairs as soon as possible. By keeping your sliding doors in good condition, you can help prevent drafts and keep cold air out.

All in all, winterizing your sliding doors is an important step in preparing your home for the colder months. By checking ventilation, adding insulation, and keeping doors well-maintained, you can create a barrier against cold air to keep your home comfortable and warm. With just a few simple steps, you can make sure your sliding doors are ready to weather winter weather and keep out the cold. So take the time to winterize your sliding doors and enjoy a warm and comfortable home all winter long.