For decades, spring bronze
was the standard for door
jamb weatherstripping, until
surface applied rigid weatherstripping
became common. Now
silicone bead weatherstripping is
changing the standard again. Silicone
keeps its shape better than
other rubber and plastic weatherstripping
materials, and it won't
stiffen and crack easily in extreme
temperature swings. Silicone beads
are also smaller than the sometimes
bulky surface types. Plus, new
router-based specialty tools make it
almost as easy to retrofit silicone
bead as to install it in a new door
frame.
Tools and Materials
I have used two systems professionally
— one manufactured by
Resource Conservation Technology
(2633 North Calvert St., Baltimore,
MD 21218; 410/366-1146),
the other by Weatherbead Insulation
Systems (47-46-46 Hepburn
Dr., Indio, CA 92201; 800/966-
0159). Both companies offer a kit
that