Keeping drafts out and temperatures stable is a primary concern for homeowners, whether you’re tackling a new build or maintaining an existing space. Two common solutions to seal doors effectively are door sweeps and weatherstripping – but which option is right for your needs?
At Homebuilders Hardware, we offer an extensive selection of high-quality door sweeps and weatherstripping, but understanding the key differences and unique applications between the two is crucial for making the best choice. Here’s a closer look at these two options, with insights on when to choose a door sweep vs. under door seal, how each option works, and why our customers often ask, “What is a door sweep and how does it differ from weatherstripping?”.
What is a Door Sweep?
A door sweep is typically a strip of rubber, vinyl, or brush that attaches to the bottom edge of a door – this “sweep” effect keeps air, dust, and even insects from slipping underneath. Homebuilders Hardware offers interior door sweeps designed for quieter spaces indoors and exterior door sweeps made to withstand the elements.
Door sweeps work exceptionally well for sealing gaps on doors with larger spaces beneath, providing a more robust barrier compared to other seals. The exterior door sweep is also highly effective for doors facing outdoors, as they can withstand rain, wind, and other environmental pressures. As an added bonus, they come in several mounting styles, including self-adhesive options or more permanent screw-on versions, allowing you to tailor the installation to your needs.
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Door Sweep, Stainless Steel with Rubber – Surface Mounted – Extra Tall Sweep
More finishes available$178.34 – $1,070.04 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Twin Nylon Brushes Door Sweep with Air Flow – Mortise Mounted – Wood Doors – Sweep Height of 3/8″ (9.4mm)
More finishes available$18.98 – $113.88 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Brush Door Sweep – Surface Mounted – Sweep Height of 1-1/4″ (31.8mm)
More finishes available$45.38 – $391.92 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Rubber Door Sweep – Surface Mounted – Sweep Height of 5/8″ (15.9mm)
More finishes available$25.20 – $151.20 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
What About Weatherstripping?
Weatherstripping is generally installed along the perimeter of the door frame and works as a cushioning sealant. Often found in materials like foam, felt, or rubber, weatherstripping is ideal for sealing around the edges rather than beneath. This option is perfect for filling in smaller, inconsistent gaps around a door, helping maintain insulation by keeping warm or cool air inside.
For homes where draft management is crucial but where there may not be large gaps beneath the door, weatherstripping can be an effective solution. But remember, for more comprehensive bottom-of-door sealing, it’s worth considering the weather stripping vs. door sweep comparison in depth.
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Meeting Stile for Double Active Glass Doors – Neoprene Rubber
More finishes available$11.52 – $88.44 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Meeting Stile for Double Active Glass Doors – Nylon Brush – 19/32″ Wide Mounting
More finishes available$13.68 – $91.56 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Meeting Stile for Double Active Glass Doors – Nylon Brush – 1″ Wide Mounting, 5/8″ Wide Brush
More finishes available$12.82 – $109.44 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Self-Adhesive Pile Brush Weatherstripping – 1/2″ x 3/8″
$8.40 – $50.40 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Door Sweep vs. Under Door Seal – Choosing the Best Fit
One of the most common questions we get at Homebuilders Hardware is, “What is a door sweep, and how does it compare to weatherstripping?”. Both options serve similar purposes, but they each have distinct advantages.
- Gaps and Draft Control: Door sweeps are often preferred for larger under-door gaps, while weatherstripping handles smaller, uneven gaps around the door edges. If you’re dealing with a door that leaves a noticeable gap between the bottom edge and the floor, an interior or exterior door sweep may be more effective at controlling drafts than weatherstripping alone.
- Durability and Material: Weatherstripping can compress over time, which may reduce its effectiveness, especially if your door sees a lot of opening and closing. Door sweeps are often more durable for high-traffic entry points, making them a longer-term solution for doors frequently exposed to weather or heavy use.
- Noise and Soundproofing: For interior doors, door sweeps can double as sound dampeners, creating a quieter environment by sealing out external noise. This makes an interior door sweep a good choice if soundproofing is a priority, such as in bedrooms or home offices.
Things to Consider for Installation
Door sweeps and weatherstripping each offer easy installation but with slightly different approaches. Exterior door sweeps often come with screw-on options for added security, ensuring they stay put even under challenging weather conditions. Some types of weatherstripping require adhesive but may need occasional replacement over time due to wear. Rest assured, at Homebuilders Hardware, we ensure our products are versatile, whether you need an under-door seal that’s screw-on, adhesive, or brush-style.
The Advantages of Choosing Door Sweeps
For those in climates with frequent drafts or high traffic at entry points, door sweeps are a reliable option – they offer a solid defence against dust and pests, and with regular maintenance, they can outlast most weatherstripping options. Our door sweeps, whether you’re considering an interior door sweep for added privacy or an exterior door sweep for insulation, are available in durable materials and various finishes to complement your doors.
When Weatherstripping Might Be Better
While we often recommend door sweeps for under-door sealing, weatherstripping might be a better option if you’re addressing edge gaps or seeking to add a light layer of insulation. It’s a solution that blends well with door sweeps in draftier homes, and when used together, they create a dual layer of protection for your home’s insulation.
Why Choose Homebuilders Hardware?
Selecting the best seal for your doors means partnering with a trusted hardware expert who knows the industry and provides only the best solutions. At Homebuilders Hardware, our door sweeps and weatherstripping options are crafted for durability and designed to meet a variety of residential needs. We offer an extensive range, from air flow and mortised door sweeps, to surface mounted door sweeps, kerf weatherstripping, glass door weatherstripping, and more.
Whether you need a door sweep vs. under door seal for a specific space or you want to explore the full selection of interior and exterior door sweeps and weatherstripping options, our team is here to guide you. Each product in our catalog is designed with durability, effectiveness, and style in mind, ensuring that every entry point in your home is well-protected, no matter the season.
For expert advice on which product best suits your needs, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
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Meeting Stile for Double Active Glass Doors – Neoprene Rubber
More finishes available$11.52 – $88.44 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Meeting Stile for Double Active Glass Doors – Nylon Brush – 19/32″ Wide Mounting
More finishes available$13.68 – $91.56 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Meeting Stile for Double Active Glass Doors – Nylon Brush – 1″ Wide Mounting, 5/8″ Wide Brush
More finishes available$12.82 – $109.44 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Kerf Frame Weatherstripping with Sponge Robber – 1/2 x 1/4 Loop Seal
$18.16 – $681.00 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Kerf Frame Weatherstripping with Durable Silicone – 7/16 x 7/16 Round Bulb Seal
$28.40 – $1,065.00 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
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Door Sweep, Stainless Steel with Rubber – Surface Mounted – Extra Tall Sweep
More finishes available$178.34 – $1,070.04 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Twin Nylon Brushes Door Sweep with Air Flow – Mortise Mounted – Wood Doors – Sweep Height of 3/8″ (9.4mm)
More finishes available$18.98 – $113.88 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Brush Door Sweep – Surface Mounted – Sweep Height of 1-1/4″ (31.8mm)
More finishes available$45.38 – $391.92 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Rubber Door Sweep – Surface Mounted – Sweep Height of 5/8″ (15.9mm)
More finishes available$25.20 – $151.20 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Rubber Door Sweep – Surface Mounted – Sweep Height of 1-1/4″ (31.8mm)
More finishes available$22.06 – $132.36 View Details This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
