6. Where do I begin if I want to do it myself and save money?

First you might want to review some YouTube Video DIY Tutorials for the various aspects of working with older windows and doors and saving money – One of the best online window and door sources to visit on YouTube is: http://tinyurl.com/mo2fbjf

Begin by determining how many window and doors you will be working on and how much weatherstripping you will need – add up all the perimeter dimensions of all windows and doors to be weatherstripped. Secondly, add 5% – 10% for miscuts and waste.

Also consider that weatherstripping comes in varying depths, widths and lengths. Weather-stripping supplies and techniques range from simple to the very technical, so you might consider calling someone who does local window and door inspections and surveys, or do your homework and read the instructions and project outlines on the weatherstripping package.

Here are some basic guidelines:

• Weatherstripping should be applied to clean, dry surfaces in temperatures above 32°F
• Measure the area to be weather-stripped twice before making your cuts.
• Apply weatherstripping snugly against both adjacent or adjoining surfaces. Be sure to inspect the material – it should compress when the window or door is shut, making a good air tight seal..
• When weatherstripping doors, be sure to choose the appropriate door sweeps and thresholds for the bottom of the doors.
• Weatherstrip the entire door jamb – not just the part that might look “worn” or in need.
• Apply one continuous strip along each side – no “piecing together” of smaller cuts.
• Make sure the weatherstripping meets tightly at the corners to prevent air or misture flow.
• Use a thickness that causes the weatherstripping to press tightly between the door and the door jamb when the door closes without making it difficult to shut.
• Use the proper weather strip – for instance if you have a metal entry door usually the seal gasket set is magnetic.
• For air sealing windows, apply weather stripping between the sash and the frame. The weather seals / stripping should not interfere with the operation of the window.