The holidays are just around the corner. Is your home ready for the changes they bring? From cooler air, to snowy days, to friends and family stopping by - holidays are a special time of year. While we welcome the brisk air after a long, hot summer, we prefer to keep it outside. Cold air seeping through windows and doors is not only unpleasant, it's actually quite expensive. Weather proofing your entry way door could save you up to 30% in energy bills. Not only that, it keeps you and your guests warm and cozy throughout the holiday season. Now that's a holiday gift that keeps on giving! Many homeowners still have their original weather stripping, and could save a bundle, just by refreshing the strips. Let's take a look at how this simple project can get your home holiday ready.

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY DOOR NEEDS A TUNE-UP?

The first rule of thumb is that weather stripping should be replaced at least every two years. If you know it has been longer than that, go ahead and tackle the project. You can also do a simple inspection to see if your door is weather proof.

• Visual Inspection- Take a look to see if there are any cracks, tears, or missing pieces in the strips. Also note whether the strips seem compressed or flattened, rather than thick and firm. Then check to see if any light shines through the seal when the door is closed. If so, it's time to weatherproof your door.
• Manual Inspection- Slide a dollar bill or piece of paper under the door while closed, to see how easily it slides through. If it slides through with no resistance, your seal is not airtight. You can also hold a lit candle near the door frame to see if an incoming draft causes the flame to flicker. A well sealed door should not be letting any air in or out.

HOW DO I WEATHER PROOF MY DOOR?

To prep your door for the holiday season, start with a door tune-up kit. Our ODL Weather Stripping Tune-Up Kit replaces your manufacturer's installed weatherproofing in a matter of minutes. Our kits include a new Door Sweep for the bottom of your door and Door Seals for the top and sides of your frame. This simple installation will keep water and ice out, while eliminating two-way airflow. If you want to increase energy efficiency in your home, and avoid those bone-chilling winter drafts, new weather strips are a necessity. ODL Weather Stripping Tune-Up Kits are $30-$35 and produce a tremendous return on investment. Imagine the savings all winter long, when you seal off your door from airflow. This easy solution ensures that your entryway is ready for all that the holidays bring.

IS IT EASY TO DO?

Replacing weather strips is a simple DIY project that can be done in under an hour. Our kits come in two sizes, for 6'8" doors and 8' doors, so we take the guesswork out of your measurements. Our kits come with clear instructions, as well as live help if you need it. In four basic steps, you can remove the old weather stripping, prep the new strips, replace the door sweep, and install new weather strips on your door. The few tools needed include items you have in your house, like, a staple gun, scissors, hammer, and screwdriver. We make DIY projects effortless with step-by-step instructions, videos, and live customer support. To get your home ready for the holidays, start with the point of entry. Weather proofing your entry way door offers protection all season long from winter's harsh temperatures, moisture, and drafts. After all, this is the coziest time of year, so don't let a poorly sealed door put a damper on it. This quick, affordable, easy improvement will keep you and your loved ones comfortable throughout the holiday season. Contact us today to learn more about getting your home ready for the holidays.