Guide to installing spring bronze weatherstripping

Installing spring bronze weatherstripping is a rewarding DIY project that offers a permanent solution to drafts. Because it is a mechanical seal (relying on the metal's "spring" rather than adhesive), the installation requires a bit of patience and precision.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Measuring Tape: For exact frame dimensions.

  • Tin Snips or Heavy-Duty Scissors: To cut the bronze strips.

  • Small Hammer: A tack hammer is ideal to avoid denting the metal.

  • Nail Set (Punch): Critical for driving nails flush without hitting the bronze with the hammer.

  • Small Awl or Ice Pick: To poke pilot holes if your bronze strips aren't pre-punched.

  • Coppered Nails: Usually included with the rolls.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Prepare the Surface

Clean the door or window jamb thoroughly. If there is old foam or adhesive weatherstripping, scrape it off completely. For the best look and seal, the bronze should sit directly against the flat wood of the jamb.

2. Measure and Cut

  • Side Strips: Measure the height of your door jamb. Cut the strip about 1/4 inch short of the total height to allow for expansion and to ensure it doesn't drag on the floor.

  • Top Strip: Measure the width of the top jamb. You may want to miter (angle cut) the corners where the top and side strips meet for a cleaner look.

3. Position the Strip

Place the strip against the jamb so the flared (spring) edge faces the exterior of the house (the direction the door opens toward). The flat nailing flange should be closest to the door stop.

  • Pro Tip: Leave a "matchstick-width" gap between the crease of the bronze and the door stop to prevent the metal from binding when the door closes.

4. Secure with Nails

  • Start at the Top: Hammer one nail at the very top and one at the very bottom to hold the strip in place. Do not drive them all the way in yet.

  • Work Top to Bottom: Once you are sure the strip is straight, begin nailing from the top down every 1.5 to 2 inches.

  • Use the Nail Set: Drive the nails until they are almost flush with the hammer, then use your nail set to tap them the rest of the way. This prevents "hammer tracks" or dents on your beautiful new bronze.

5. Adjust the "Spring"

Close the door to test the seal. If you still feel a draft or see light, take a flathead screwdriver or a putty knife and gently pry the flared edge outward to increase the tension. If the door is too hard to close, flatten the strip slightly with your fingers.

Special Considerations

  • The Lock Strike: When you reach the door lock, you will need to cut the bronze into two pieces to go above and below the strike plate. Many kits come with a specific "lock strip" (a small 12-inch piece) to seal that specific gap.

  • Hinges: You can typically run the bronze right over the hinges on the hinge side of the door; the thin metal will simply compress when the door closes.

  • You can do this!
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