How to Fix or Change a Fire-Door Sweep

A door sweep is attached to the bottom of a door to make it more energy efficient. Not only do door sweeps prevent drafts, water and dust from getting into the house, they also prevent heat from within the house from escaping. If you have door sweeps attached to any of your doors, you should check them periodically for signs of wear or tear, as they require an airtight seal in order to work properly. As soon as you notice signs of deterioration, you need to replace your floor sweep. Not to worry: Many models can be found for under $20.

Power drill
Caulk
Rubber mallet or a hammer and wood block

Instructions

- 1
  Remove all the screws in your door's hinges. Have someone hold the door while you do this so it doesn't fall.
- 2
  Place the door on the floor.
- 3
  Pry off the old floor sweep. Or, if your door is made of steel, slide the door sweep off.
- 4
  Take the floor sweep to your local home improvements store to buy a replacement with the same measurements. If you can't find one with the same measurements, look for one that can be cut to size.
- 5
  Apply a smooth line of caulk along the bottom of the door.
- 6
  Snap the grooves of the door sweep onto the bottom of the door.
- 7
  Secure the door sweep by taping it with a rubber mallet or a hammer and wood block.
- 8
  Fasten the door sweep in place using the staples or fasteners that came with the door sweep.
- 9
  Screw the hinges back on to the door.
- 10
  Ask someone to hold the door up while you screw the door's hinges back onto the wall.

Larson 690-08 Instructions

DIY Archway

Doors