How to Fix a Gap in a Doorway

Door Sweep

• 1

  Measure the distance between the bottom of the door and the threshold. Then, measure the width of the door, close to the bottom. Take these measurements to the home improvement store to purchase a door sweep kit that best matches the measurements.

• 2

  Cut the door sweep to the exact size as the bottom of the door. Use the home improvement store's customer service cutting option or do it at home with a hack saw.

• 3

  Align the door sweep with the bottom of the open door. Hold the metal sleeve open as wide as you can. Slip it along the door until it is centered on the bottom.

• 4

  Close the door to ensure the vinyl fins at the bottom of the door form a tight seal against the threshold. If there is still a small gap, slide the metal sleeve down a few centimeters to bring the vinyl fins closer to the threshold.

• 5

  Locate the screw holes on the side of the metal sleeve. Screw the door sweep in place with wood screws and a screwdriver.

Weatherstripping Around Door

• 6

  Measure each side of the door frame and along the top with a tape measure and record the measurements.

• 7

  Cut adhesive weatherstripping foam tape to match the door frame measurements. Hold the foam strips up to the door frame to ensure a perfect fit. Trim as necessary.

• 8

  Clean the door frame with a cleaning solution and a rag, as adhesive tape sticks best on a dirt- and oil-free surface.

• 9

  Peel the backing off one of the foam strips and press it into place. Use your fingers to smooth out any gaps or bubbles under the tape. Repeat with the other two pieces of weatherstripping foam tape.

• 10

  Close the door to confirm that it presses against the foam tape, creating a tight seal.