13 Exterior Door Weatherstripping Types

Are you looking for new weatherstripping for your doors? Are you feeling slightly overwhelmed by the multitude of options available on the market? Don't worry - we're here to help!

In this article, you'll find everything you need to know about exterior door weatherstripping types, so read on!

Key Takeaways

• Weatherstripping dramatically improves comfort and efficiency by sealing air leaks, blocking moisture and pests, and reducing noise, while also protecting doors and frames from long-term damage.
• There are many weatherstripping options for different needs, including V-strips, foam tape, magnetic, silicone, and interlocking metal strips. There are also door sweeps, door shoes, and frost brake thresholds.
• Make sure to choose the right weatherstripping and maintain it accordingly. Inspect door gaps, consider climate and door usage, and perform regular upkeep to ensure long-lasting performance and better energy savings.

Why Do Your Doors Need Weatherstripping?

You should definitely install weatherstripping on your doors because it:

• Keeps outdoor air outdoors for better insulation, helping you reduce heating and cooling costs
• Blocks moisture, dust, and insects, as the doors are properly sealed
• Blocks noise thanks to the strong seal
• Protects the door and frame itself by reducing warping, rot, and long-term damage

Therefore, it goes without saying that installing weatherstripping on exterior doors is a must. But it's also important to choose the right weatherstripping. As such, we'll first discuss different types of door weatherstripping, and then share some weatherstripping tips on how to choose the best one for your door!

13 Types of Exterior Door Weatherstripping

There are different types of exterior door weatherstripping, and it's important to choose a suitable one, depending on where you plan to install it. Why? Because some are more durable than others, some are more insulating than others, and some are more flexible than others.

As such, here are 13 exterior door weatherstripping types!

1. Tension Seal (V-Strip)

Tension seals, also known as V-strips, are thin, flexible strips folded into a V shape. They're usually made of flexible plastic or metal strips. When installed along the sides and top of the door frame, the V-strip compresses, creating a tight seal.

V-strips are quite easy to install. They usually have an adhesive backing; metal versions can be nailed/screwed in.

Pros:

• Very good at reducing air leaks and rattling sounds
• Metal versions can last for many years without losing shape.
• Doesn't compress permanently like foam, so it keeps sealing power
• Nearly invisible once installed
• Great for windows as well, especially double-hung windows and sliding windows

Cons: 

• Installation takes patience (crooked placement can affect door operation)
• Not ideal for warped door frames or large or uneven gaps
• Can make the door feel "tight" to close if there's too much pressure
• Plastic versions may weaken in direct sunlight.

Best for: older homes with air movement around the door frame or where you want a simple, discreet upgrade without bulky materials.

2. Foam Tape

Foam tape is a soft, spongy strip with peel-and-stick adhesive on one side. It's designed to compress between the door and the frame when the door closes. It's available in softer and denser foam, comes in different thicknesses for various gap sizes, and is flexible enough to be installed on uneven surfaces. Plus, it's definitely among the easiest weatherstripping types to install.

You can also purchase reinforced foam, which is perfect for doors, windows, and attic hatches.

Pros:

• Easy to install; no tools required
• Very budget-friendly and widely available
• Great for apartment renters who need a non-permanent solution
• Works for window sashes as well

Cons:

• Has a shorter lifespan compared to rubber or metal, especially with frequent door use
• Foam loses its spring over time and stays compressed.
• The adhesive can peel off in humid or very cold weather.
• Not suitable for exterior doors that face heavy rain or wind

Best use: best for temporary fixes, light-duty doors, or areas with mild weather conditions

3. Door Sweeps

A door sweep is a strip that attaches to the bottom of the door and seals the gap between the door and the floor or threshold. It is usually made from rubber, vinyl, silicone, or a brush-style material. It can be screw-mounted or adhesive-mounted. Some types also slide into a metal channel on the door bottom.

Pros:

• One of the most effective ways to stop drafts at the floor level
• Blocks insects, dust, leaves, and even small rodents
• Helps prevent rainwater from seeping inside
• Easy to replace when worn

Cons:

• Can drag on carpet or rub against thick rugs
• Wears out faster on rough or uneven thresholds
• may leave light scuff marks on delicate flooring

Best for: exterior doors with a visible gap underneath, especially in windy, rainy, and dusty environments

4. Rubber or Vinyl Bulb Seals

Bulb seals have a soft, hollow tube of rubber or vinyl that compresses when the door closes, creating a strong, cushioned barrier against cold air, dust, and moisture. It is usually installed on the kerf.

Pros:

• Excellent sealing power, even in cold, windy, or wet climates
• Maintains performance even with slight frame misalignment
• Prevents door rattling and banging

Cons:

• Costs more than foam or felt options
• Installation is more complicated
• In very cold climates, cheaper vinyl versions may stiffen over time
• Poor-quality rubber can crack with age and sun exposure

Best for: front doors where you want long-term, reliable protection from outside weather.

5. Brush Seals

Brush seals feature dense, flexible bristles instead of solid rubber to seal gaps. They basically sweep the area when the door closes. Brush seals are usually made from polyurethane or polypropylene bristles, which are mounted in a metal or plastic holder. They're excellent at adapting to uneven, rough, or textured surfaces.

Pros:

• Works well on uneven thresholds where rubber would drag, thanks to its flexible design
• Performs well against dust, leaves, moisture, and insects
• Doesn't create much resistance when opening or closing the door
• Durable in dry, dirty, or industrial-style conditions

Cons:

• Doesn't fully block drafts as well as rubber seals
• Bristles can flatten with heavy use
• Not ideal for heavy rain protection
• Can look more industrial than decorative

Best for: great for garage doors and windows, sheds, or older homes with irregular floor surfaces

6. Magnetic Weather Stripping

Magnetic weather stripping features built-in magnetic strips that pull the door tightly against the frame. This creates an airtight seal. The magnets are embedded inside a rubber or vinyl casing, providing consistent pressure without physical compression fatigue. This type of door weather stripping works best with steel doors or metal frames.

Pros:

• One of the best types for airtight sealing
• Helps keep doors securely closed, even in strong winds
• Quiet and smooth door operation
• Long-lasting when properly installed

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost
• Requires precise alignment to work properly, thus being more difficult to install
• Not suitable if the door or frame is warped

Best for: cold or hot climates where energy efficiency and energy savings are critical, and the door/frame are compatible.

7. Interlocking Metal Weather Stripping

The interlocking metal weather stripping has two metal pieces: one is mounted to the door, and the other is mounted to the frame. When the door closes, these two pieces mechanically interlock. This weather stripping is usually made from heavy-duty aluminum or stainless steel.

Pros:

• Creates a very strong barrier against air and water
• Extremely durable and resistant to weather damage
• Adds an extra layer of security to the door
• Ideal for historic home restorations

Cons:

• Not beginner-friendly to install
• More expensive than most other options
• Can be noisy if not aligned perfectly
• Difficult to adjust after installation

Best for: high-end installations, historic homes, doors where durability and security matter the most

8. Felt Weather Stripping

Felt weather stripping is made from compressed fabric fibers. It is designed to lightly block air and dust in small gaps. It is a soft and flexible seal, usually backed with adhesive. Felt weatherstripping can be trimmed easily with scissors. It works better in dry conditions than wet ones.

Pros:

• Very low cost
• Simple, easy installation
• Allows for smooth operation

Cons:

• Absorbs moisture and can get moldy
• Wears down quickly with friction
• Poor performance in heavy rain or extreme temperatures
• Needs frequent replacement

Best for: low-exposure doors, such as enclosed porch doors or mild-climate utility doors.

9. Tubular Rubber and Vinyl Weatherstripping

Tubular weather stripping uses a soft, hollow tube made from rubber or vinyl that compresses when the door closes. It's similar to bulb seals, but the tube is usually rounder and more hose-like. Tubular weather stripping is often installed around door frames with adhesive backing or a metal carrier.

Pros:

• Excellent sealing power for uneven door frames
• Handles temperature swings well
• Durable against repeated door use
• Good moisture resistance

Cons:

• Can be bulky or visible
• Vinyl versions may harden in cold weather
• Slightly harder to install
• Higher cost

Best for: doors with noticeable gaps and climates with strong winds and rain.

10. Rolled or Reinforced Vinyl Weatherstripping

Rolled vinyl weatherstripping is a flexible and durable sealing material, which is also resistant to moisture. It is often reinforced with a metal or wood carrier and can be stapled or nailed into place.

Pros:

• Durable and resistant to tearing
• Doesn't stick or drag like soften materials
• Works well for high-traffic doors

Cons:

• Not as airtight as other seals
• Less forgiving on warped doors

Best for: busy entry doors

11. Reinforced Silicone Weatherstripping

This door weatherstripping type uses flexible silicone rubber, often reinforced with fabric or mesh, to create a long-lasting seal that is highly flexible.

Pros:

• Performs exceptionally well in extreme cold or heat
• Doesn’t crack, harden, or shrink like vinyl
• Long service life
• Excellent water and air sealing

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Slightly harder to cut cleanly
• Not always available in big-box stores

Best for: harsh climates, coastal homes, or anyone wanting premium, long-lasting performance.

12. Door Shoes

A door shoe is a U-shaped metal or plastic channel that fits around the bottom edge of the door. It usually includes adjustable or replaceable inserts. For example, aluminum door shoes often come with vinyl inserts.

Pros:

• Very durable and secure
• Better sealing than basic door sweeps
• Protects the bottom edge of the door
• Good for heavy doors

Cons:

• More difficult to install (may require removing the door)
• Visible from outside
• Costs more than simple sweeps
• Can rub on uneven thresholds

Best for: main front and back doors that need long-term bottom sealing and heavy-duty durability.

13. Frost Brake Threshold

A frost brake threshold is a special type of door threshold designed with thermal breaks to prevent cold transfer and condensation under exterior doors. It features a built-in insulating barrier between the inner and the outer metal parts. It is also often adjustable in height and designed to meet energy efficiency codes to help you maintain consistent indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs.

Pros:

• Reduces cold floors near the door
• Minimizes condensation and frost buildup
• Works great with door sweeps and door shoes
• Improves your home's energy efficiency

Cons:

• More expensive than standard thresholds
• Requires professional installation for best performance
• Not easily retrofitted in all door openings
• Can wear down with heavy foot traffic

Best for: cold climates, high-efficiency homes, and doors exposed to extreme weather conditions.

What's the Best Weatherstripping for Your Door?

To understand what weatherstripping is best for sealing doors in your house, check the gaps first. Close your doors and look for visible light or drafts coming through the edges. You can also slide a piece of paper through the gap. If it moves easily, you likely need a thicker or more compressible seal.

Next, think about door usage:

• For front and back doors that get heavy use, go with durable options like rubber, silicone, tubular, or reinforced vinyl.
• For light-use doors, foam or felt seals can be perfectly fine.

Your climate matters a lot:

• In areas with severe weather conditions, look for rubber, silicone, magnetic, or bulb/tubular seals for your new doors.
• In mild climates, reinforced foam or vinyl tape may be enough.

Also consider the door material:

• Wood doors pair well with bulb, tubular, and V-strip types.
• Metal doors work great with magnetic and reinforced vinyl seals.
• Fiberglass doors often use kerf-mounted bulbs or silicone seals.

If the problem area is the bottom of the door, focus on:

• Door sweeps for simple fixes
• Door shoes for heavy-duty performance
• Or combine weatherstripping with a frost brake threshold for best results in cold climates.

A practical tip: it’s usually better to choose something slightly too thick than too thin. You can always compress weather stripping, but you can’t make a thin seal fill a wide gap.

How to Maintain Weatherstripping

Make it a habit to inspect weatherstripping a couple of times a year, especially before winter and summer. Look for cracks, flattened sections, peeling adhesive, or gaps that have reopened.

Keep it clean. Dirt and grit can wear the material down faster. You can wipe it with a damp cloth and a mild soap solution. For rubber or silicone types, this also helps keep them flexible.

Watch for loss of springiness. If your foam or rubber doesn’t bounce back after being compressed, it’s time to replace it. That loss of bounce is one of the main reasons door seals stop working.

Recheck the door alignment occasionally. Even good weatherstripping won’t work well if your door is sagging or the hinges are loose.

Most types of weatherstripping last 3-10 years, depending on material and use:

• Foam and felt: shorter lifespan (thus a rather temporary solution)
• Rubber and vinyl: medium lifespan (great around doors and windows in regions with mild weather conditions)
• Silicone and metal-backed: longest lifespan (perfect for temperature extremes, boosting your home's efficiency year-round)

Final Thoughts

If your front door is too old to be repaired or is severely damaged, it might be time to replace it. That's what Magic can help you with! Magic's ultimate entry doors are designed with precision engineering and premium materials. They go beyond basic construction and insulation to deliver complete, long-lasting protection for your home.

Key features of Magic's ultimate entry doors include:

• Advanced sealing systems for superior weather insulation
• Energy-efficient construction with 40% more insulation that helps lower heating and cooling costs
• Durable, low-maintenance materials that resist warping, rotting, and wear
• Enhanced security features for peace of mind (30% more steel and a unique J-bend design; our door can resist 1,600 lbs of force)
• Customizable styles, finishes, and glass options to match any home.

Curious to learn more? Give Magic a call!

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of weather stripping is best for exterior doors?

The best weatherstripping for exterior doors is compression weatherstripping made of rubber, vinyl, or silicone, as it creates a tight seal when the door closes. Metal or reinforced vinyl types are also very durable for heavy-use exterior doors.

How to seal around an exterior door frame?

To seal around an exterior door frame, use exterior-grade caulk to seal gaps between the door frame and the wall. Add foam backer rod for larger gaps before applying caulk.

What are the three types of weather stripping?

The three main types of weatherstripping are V-strips, brush weatherstripping, and foam tape.

What are common problems with door sealing strips?

Common problems with door sealing strips include cracking, shrinking, or losing flexibility over time. Poor installation can also cause gaps, drafts, or difficulty closing the door.

How often should weatherstripping be replaced?

Weatherstripping should be replaced every 2 to 5 years, depending on environmental factors and wear. Regular checks can help maintain energy efficiency in your home.

Can I install weatherstripping myself?

Yes, you can install weatherstripping yourself with simple options like foam tape and tension seals, but consider professional assistance for more complex types.

How do I know if my weatherstripping needs replacement?

If you're experiencing air drafts, see light through gaps, or notice wear and cracks in your weatherstripping, it's time for a replacement.

Does weatherstripping work for sliding doors?

Yes, weatherstripping is effective for sliding doors, especially tension seals, foam tape, and door sweeps.