Weather stripping lowers energy bills by reducing the amount of hot or cold air entering your home. It’s simple: cut drafts, cut costs.
And it’s not expensive – as little as $10 to weatherstrip a window and about $60 for a door. The total cost depends on how many windows and doors you plan to seal.
To make this article a helpful pricing guide for homeowners across the nation, we used averages obtained from our nationwide survey on weather stripping costs. Your final cost varies depending on the material, window or door style, and other factors.
Cost by Location
Weatherstripping installation costs vary from place to place. Labor and materials are generally more expensive in areas where the cost of living is higher.
The table below helps you understand how cost varies by location across different cities in the U.S. The costs here represent the average of a complete weatherstripping job:
| Location | Average Cost (Including Labor and Materials) |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| Baltimore, MD | $107 – $506 |
| Philadelphia, PA | $113 – $539 |
| New York, NY | $142 – $672 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Canton, GA | $85 – $404 |
| Murfreesboro, TN | $89 – $423 |
| Florence, KY | $109 – $516 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| Wichita, KS | $86 – $412 |
| St. Louis, MO | $110 – $522 |
| Chicago, IL | $117 – $558 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Corvallis, OR | $101 – $480 |
| Seattle, WA | $117 – $557 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| Tucson, AZ | $92 – $439 |
| San Diego, CA | $112 – $533 |
Cost by Material
You can choose from a few different materials for weather stripping. Some are cheap and easy to use but don’t last long, while others cost more upfront but stay in place for years.
You’ll also want to consider where the material is for. Foam works fine for closet doors, but main doors and garage doors need stronger materials. For this reason, many homes use more than one type of weatherstripping.
See below the most common materials used in weather stripping and their average prices:
| Material | Average Cost per linear foot (Materials Only) |
| Foam tape | $0.16 – $0.25 |
| Felt | $0.25 – $0.50 |
| Tension/V-seal | $0.25 – $0.50 |
| Tubular | $0.25 – $0.50 |
| Gasket | $0.60 – $1.75 |
| Reinforced foam | $1.25 – $1.50 |
| Reinforced silicone | $1.25 – $1.75 |
| Fin seal | $1.50 – $2 |
| Interlocking metal channel | $6 – $10 |
| Door sweep | $13 – $20 |
| Magnetic | $22 – $25 |
Foam Tape
Foam tape is one of the most popular options for weather stripping. It is a self-sticking tape made of vinyl and can be placed on windows, doors, and sliding doors. However, it does not last very long in high-use areas, especially where doors get slammed or exposed to harsh weather.
Felt
Felt seals windows and doors by pressing against them when shut. Tacks or nails are often required for installation. Similar to foam tape, felt helps keep air out, but it is not very durable and needs to be replaced often.
Tension/V-seal
A tension seal, also known as a V-seal, is another inexpensive seal that sticks along the edge of windows or sliding doors. It’s ideal for double-hung, and sliding doors since it’s self-sticking and quite simple to apply. Over time, it can make windows or doors a little harder to open and close, so it’s not the best fit for regular-use doors and windows.
Tubular
Tubular weatherstripping creates a tight seal by pressing in when the door or window shuts. It is usually made of rubber or vinyl that fits over the edges of doors, windows, and sliding doors.
Tubular is very effective and tough to install, so many homeowners call in a pro for this type.
Gasket
For extreme winds or cold climates, gasket weatherproofing is your best bet. Gasket weather stripping is usually made up of two pieces: the gasket itself and its reinforcement, either metal or wood strips. This type of weather stripping is designed to be installed on window and door stops. They can be difficult to install because they must be cut with a hacksaw for proper fitting.
Reinforced foam
Reinforced foam is sturdier than basic foam because it comes attached to a metal or wooden backing. It is ideal for windows and doors that experience harsh conditions like extreme winds or temperatures. It offers additional protection from air leaks compared to other materials. Plus, due to its shape and design, reinforced foam adds some extra style to your home.
Reinforced silicone
Like gaskets, reinforced silicone is usually backed with metal or wood strips and installed on door or window stops. It seals your windows and doors from the inside, and creates a tight seal that’ll keep air from leaking in (or out). It isn’t easy to install. You’ll need a hacksaw to cut it just right so that it fits properly.
Fin seal
For those with aluminum sliding windows or doors, a fin seal would be best for them. It has strands of material with Mylar fins in the middle, which help block drafts and wind. Fin seal is highly durable but tricky to install, so make sure you know the process before attempting it yourself.
Interlocking metal channel
If you’re looking for the best of the best when it comes to weather stripping, interlocking metal channels should be at the top of your list. Two metal strips are installed on the door and the frame, and when the door closes, they lock together to form a seal. This method is expensive, and professional installation is almost always needed.
Door sweep
Door sweeps attach to the bottom edge of a door and block drafts from coming through underneath. So, when a door is opened or closed, it creates a ‘sweep’ effect. It often comes in rubber, silicone, or vinyl and is nearly invisible once in place. It is a good add-on for entry doors with a noticeable bottom gap.
Magnetic
Magnetic weatherstripping works just like the seal on a refrigerator. As the door closes, the magnet creates a tight seal that eliminates air leakage inside your home. Some types can also be used at the top or bottom of sliding doors or windows. Installation is fairly simple, but the door and frame need magnetic strips.
Cost by Installation Place
Weatherstripping costs can also change based on where it’s installed in your home. Windows and doors are the most common spots, but areas like attics, garages, and even fireplaces may also need sealing.
Here’s what you can expect to pay in each location:
| Location | Average Cost per Unit (Including Materials and Labor) |
| Window | $5 – $10 |
| AC unit | $15 – $20 |
| Door | $35 – $90 |
| Attic door | $35 – $90 |
| Garage | $65 – $140 |
| Fireplace | $200 – $400 |
Window
Adding weather stripping to windows prevents air leaks through the frames. If you are planning to add this upgrade to your window, we recommend doing all your windows at once. This way, you can save more on labor costs. The final price will still depend on the window style.
AC
Window AC units often leave small gaps around the edges. AC weather stripping fills those gaps to stop air leaks from all sides, which improves efficiency. This is mostly for window ACs, but can also be used for other models.
Door
Weather stripping around the door is more common than others, as they are one of the biggest sources of air leaks in a home. We recommend using stronger materials like vinyl, rubber, or metal since doors are used daily. The actual cost depends on the type of door you have and the material you choose.
Attic door
Attic doors and hatches can leak a lot of air if left unsealed. Since most attics already have insulation, you don’t need to spend more on weather stripping. The Department of Energy suggests tape is best suited for attic hatches.
Garage
Most garage doors come with a bottom seal to keep water, drafts, dust, and pests out. Over time, these seals can wear down, crack, or lose flexibility, especially in harsh weather.
Replace weather stripping every 2 to 3 years for maximum effectiveness.
Fireplace
With the help of a fireplace draft stop, airflow can be blocked while still allowing the chimney. This is not a permanent solution and doesn’t save on energy bills in the long run. Hire a chimney pro who inspects your fireplace and makes necessary changes for proper sealing and an effective solution. On average, a chimney inspection costs between $110 and $760.
Cost by Window Style
The type of window will largely determine the cost of weather stripping needed, although the cost difference is not that great. Expect to pay about $6 to weatherstrip an awning and as much as $10 to do a sliding window.
Awning
Awning windows are a great way to keep cold or hot air from entering your home. They come in multiple sizes and push out at the bottom rather than swinging or sliding. Felt, tape, and some tubular weather stripping are ideal for these windows.
Casement
Casement windows come in all shapes and sizes, so the cost can vary based on certain factors.
This type of window typically features crank or push-out windows, requiring weather stripping that can accommodate their design, such as felt, tape, or tubular strips.
Single-hung
Single-hung windows come in various sizes, and only the bottom sash needs to be weather-stripped for an optimal seal. Most of these windows require felt, tape, or tubular weather stripping to close off any air gaps.
Double-hung
Double-hung windows offer better sealing solutions since they are split in two, where each side can be sealed separately. Tape or tension seal is the best option here.
Bay
Bay windows stick out from the wall and usually have multiple sections, which means more air gaps to cover. Felt and tubular are commonly used to weatherstrip a bay window. Since most bay windows are stationary, caulking alone on the exterior might be enough.
Sliding
Sliding windows move side to side, so they often have gaps along the tracks. If one side of your sliding window is stationary, caulking works well without the need for weather stripping. The Department of Energy suggests a tension seal, a magnetic seal, or a fin seal for sliding windows.
Cost by Door Style
The type or style of door you have impacts the cost of weather stripping needed. Unlike windows, the type of door does affect the cost a good bit. Weatherstripping a storm door, for instance, will cost between $35 and $40, while on the higher end, weatherstripping a sliding glass door will cost $60 to $90.
Storm
Storm doors are installed in front of your main door to add extra protection against drafts and weather. Felt and fin seal are commonly used for this door, but many other types can also be used for weather stripping installation. Since they see a lot of use, it’s best to pick durable materials that won’t wear out quickly.
Hinged
Felt, foam tape, gaskets, reinforced silicone, or tubular strips all work well for hinged doors, depending on how much of a seal you need. Sometimes the threshold needs to be replaced, which adds to the cost. Interlocking metal channels might be the best option for doors with bigger gaps or alignment issues since they give the tightest seal.
Patio
Patio doors come in various styles, including sliding or hinged, so the weather stripping depends on the style. If you have more than one patio door, sealing them all can cost a bit more. The best type of weather stripping depends on your door style.
Dutch
Although they are still not as common, Dutch doors have recently gained more popularity. Weather stripping works the same way as on a regular hinged door. The only difference is the split between the two sections. You may need a small sweep made for this style, or interlocking metal channels to seal the gap.
French
French doors are becoming increasingly popular these days due to their sophisticated look and ability to bring in more natural light. These doors come in various styles, so the right type of weather stripping depends on the style. Gaskets, reinforced silicone, threshold replacement, and sometimes metal channels between the two doors are commonly used.
Sliding Glass Door
Many types of weather stripping can be used for sliding glass doors, such as tension seal tape, fin seal, or foam tape. Depending on the location of the draft, you may need to seal up all sides. However, be aware that thicker strips can make it difficult to open and close your door.
Labor Costs
The cost of installing weather stripping around windows and doors depends on a number of factors. The complexity of the installation will be the biggest deciding factor when it comes to how much you’ll pay.
You can expect to pay between $50 and $105 per hour in labor alone for professionally installed weather stripping.
Additional Cost Factors
Below are the most common factors that influence the cost of your project:
Number of Units
The more windows or doors you want to install weather stripping, the higher your project cost. Also, doing just one can be expensive since the cost per unit is higher. If your home has no weather stripping at all, it’s usually cheaper to have everything done at once.
Condition of Windows and Doors
If your doors or windows don’t fit well, have big gaps, or need threshold replacement, the cost will go up. Weather stripping works best on frames that are in good shape.
See Related: How Much Does Window Replacement Cost?
Replacement
Replacing old weather stripping usually costs more than a fresh install. The pro has to remove the old material first, which takes extra time and adds to the labor cost.
Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
Self-adhesive options like foam tape are the easiest DIY choice and cost about $0.16 to $1.25 per linear foot.
For tougher materials like reinforced foam, silicone, or interlocking metal, you’ll also need extra tools, which cost around $18 on average. However, it’s usually better to hire a pro to get a proper seal.
FAQ
No, weather stripping is not necessarily permanent. Over time, it may start to wear down or break apart, which can lead to air leaks. To ensure your home stays energy efficient, regularly check and inspect the weather stripping around it.
Weather stripping is used on movable parts like windows and doors, while caulking seals stationary cracks or gaps around frames and walls. Many homes need both for the best results.
Yes, it does. ENERGY STAR notes that you can save up to 10% on annual energy bills when combined with added insulation.
Lower Your Energy Bill
Weather stripping is a key component of home energy efficiency. Proper installation around windows and doors helps cut down air leaks, which saves money on energy bills over time.
For a proper installation, you need a proper contractor. Find the right pro who handles everything from choosing the material to sealing every gap.
Home Gnome delivers the best home service experience at the click of a button. Book reliable, skilled services in seconds and leave the rest to us.
Rahul Sattineni contributed to this article.
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Main Image: Workers installing weather stripping in a house. Image Credit: Africa Studio / Adobe Stock
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