Sep. 02, 2024
What is a Resident Benefits Package? A Resident Benefits Package (RBP) is a selection of services provided by property managers to residents of rental properties. Sometimes referred to as a &#;tenant benefits package,&#; these benefits are usually included in the lease agreement and are designed to make residents&#; lives easier by meeting their wants and needs. Some examples of these services could include filter delivery, credit building, and 24/7 maintenance. At Second Nature, we pioneered the only fully managed resident benefits package. If you&#;re ready to get started, you can start building your own Resident Benefits Package today! Note: We chose the term &#;resident&#; because the &#;tenant benefit package&#; sounded too impersonal for the value we&#;re driving. Continue reading to find out the benefits of a resident benefit package, how it can generate revenue, and how to implement one to give your residents, investors, and business a win. What Are the Benefits of a Resident Benefits Package? The resident benefits package adds value to residents by anticipating their needs and providing them with services that make life easier and better. It adds value to investors by preventing maintenance, vacancy, and delinquency. And, of course, it adds value to property managers because it differentiates them from the competition. Let&#;s take a deeper look at how the RBP creates a Triple Win &#; for residents, for investors, and for you, the property manager. 1. Attracting and retaining residents through better experiences Offering a comprehensive benefits package can make a property more appealing to potential residents. By providing desirable perks such as exclusive discounts, concierge services, or access to credit reporting and other financial benefits, the property management company can attract a larger pool of prospective residents and increase occupancy rates. Retaining residents is also crucial for profitability, as turnover costs can be significant. A benefits package can enhance resident satisfaction and loyalty, reducing turnover and associated expenses. 2. Higher rental rates for higher value A well-curated tenant benefit package makes properties more valuable. When residents perceive additional value in the form of amenities, services, or discounts, they are often willing to pay more for their living experience. This allows the property management company to command premium prices for their units, leading to increased revenue and improved profitability. 3. Differentiation and competitive advantage In a crowded real estate market, a distinct resident benefits package can set a property apart from competitors. It becomes a unique selling proposition that highlights the property management company's commitment to providing an exceptional living experience. By offering a package that exceeds what other properties in the area provide, the company gains a competitive advantage and attracts residents who value the added benefits. 4. Ancillary revenue opportunities A tenant benefits package can create opportunities for generating additional revenue streams tied to specific benefits in the package. Resident Benefit Fee: How Much Does a Resident Benefit Package Cost? Most resident benefits packages cost between $20 and $100, which is often included in the lease and added as a monthly fee for the resident. Prices vary depending on a few key factors, chief among them being the mix of benefits selected by the property manager. What Does a Resident Benefits Package Include? Here&#;s what the Second Nature Resident Benefit Package includes. Filter delivery service Air filter delivery was the first service Second Nature offered to scattered-site and single-family property managers. It is a cornerstone of the RBP, and over 1M residents have shown that a physical, tangible product is key to their ongoing perception of value. One of the most common causes of HVAC maintenance requests is a failure to change the home&#;s air filters on time. Air filter delivery from Second Nature solves the problem by delivering the correct-sized high-quality HVAC filters directly to each home&#;s front door on a predetermined schedule. The delivery serves as a reminder for the resident to change the filter, and voila &#; problem solved. The resident breathes clean air, the PM has fewer HVAC tickets to deal with, and the investor has their asset protected. That&#;s a triple win. Our message to residents: &#;Changing filters is as easy as opening the front door.&#; Phil Owen, founder of OnSight PROS, says of the delivery system: &#;Last year OnSight PROS performed third-party property condition reports at almost 18k single-family rental properties on behalf of property managers. The number of filters that we have to replace or mark as &#;needs attention&#; becomes almost zero when a PM implements the Second Nature program. I cannot imagine how a property manager could justify not protecting their landlords with this program. The difference between those using the program and those who simply hope that their tenants go to the store to purchase and install a new filter is staggering.&#; Our filter delivery service has proven to reduce total HVAC maintenance requests by 38% and save up to $250 per year per property. $1 million identity protection One in four Americans will be victims of identity theft. In , digital theft incidence surpassed home burglary incidents for the first time &#; and is rapidly rising. With identity protection as part of your RBP, every adult on the lease automatically gets the peace of mind you can expect from professional-level identity protection. Backed by AIG and monitored through IBM&#;s Watson, Aura Identity Guard works proactively on behalf of the resident to identify fraudulent use of their identity and alert them. In the event of an actual identity theft case, the resident receives a dedicated case manager and is covered up to $1,000,000 for most resulting damages. This protects the resident's ability to pay rent, which makes it a win for the investor. And it keeps property managers out of the middle of another difficult situation and decision. Credit building With RBP&#;s credit building service, on-time rental payments improve the credit score of your residents. It may seem crazy that people are building credit by paying for Netflix and other small subscriptions, but not their largest monthly payment... rent! But that's the truth for most residents. We asked, how is it even possible that someone's largest monthly expense is the only one they aren't getting credit or rewards for? This credit reporting program reports positive-impact, on-time rent payments automatically to all three credit bureaus, helping residents build their credit simply for paying their rent on time. Residents also get an immediate boost with 24 months of back reporting included. This service directly impacts rates on credit cards, auto loans, and future mortgages, incentivizing residents to get rent in on time and helping set them up for home buying in the future. The property manager and the investor both reap the benefit of the extra incentive to get rent on time and the resident gets to see their credit score rise as a result of something they have to do anyway. It&#;s a big-time triple win here. Resident rewards program Rental rewards are a favorite among residents and another powerful and positive incentive for on-time rent payments. Rental rewards programs deliver automatic benefits at move-in. Then, residents can unlock even more rewards by paying rent on the day it's due. At Second Nature, all on-time payment tracking is done through the app. Like other services in your RBP, it&#;s managed for you. Gifts include: $30 gift card for national and local brands $25 restaurant card $40 rewards cash on rent day each month rent is paid on time And more The value of rewards is covered in the cost of the RBP, so the property manager isn&#;t seeing any additional liabilities. The PM and investor only see a benefit, which is the increase in on-time rent payments. For the resident, rent day is now rewards day. Another triple win. Move-in concierge Setting up utilities can be a massive headache for a new resident. Residents aren&#;t sure who to call and who provides utilities and home services like internet and TV for their new address. Moreover, the research for discounts/promotions/coupons available takes more time. Most times, the process is clunky, with lots of friction that gets in the way of it getting 100% done. And it is too easy to overlook fine print in the lease about installing satellite dishes. Move-in Concierge changes all of that for professional property managers. In one call, residents find out what their best options are and can even get help simplifying setup. An experienced concierge confidently guides multiple people every day to properly set up their utilities. Renters insurance program Nearly all property managers require a renters insurance policy in their lease agreements. As part of our RBP, Second Nature offers price-competitive insurance coverage options through a Renters Insurance Program that property managers can apply to all their residents locked in with one group rate. Residents who have their own renters insurance can receive a waiver on RBP's insurance program, but the current list of enrolled residents is tracked for you by Second Nature, and any resident who drops off of their own insurance is automatically enrolled. No more hassle for you, quality asset coverage for the investor, and immediate and comprehensive liability coverage for the resident &#; another triple win you can create with your Resident Benefits Package. Additional benefits At Second Nature, we help property managers deliver all their services to residents. If you&#;re already offering perks and are ready to level up to a resident benefits package, we can help you bundle the above benefits with other services. We&#;ve worked with PMs to bundle in their existing property management services, including: 24/7 maintenance coordination: A huge benefit to residents and PMs is a service that provides after-hours support without dragging the property manager out of bed. This type of program makes reporting pesky maintenance issues easy and fast for the resident. It also helps prioritize emergency maintenance. Online portal: With a simplified online resident portal, residents can access all of their documents, messages, and more through an app. Residents can also pay rent and receive reminders to pay rent online. Home buying assistance: For residents who are building up toward home ownership, some PMs offer assistance in building credit and savings. We help them get there. Vetted vendor network: A vetted network ensures that vendors who service your properties are screened to exceed your standards for insurance, licensing, and professionalism on the job. Property managers, residents, and investors can rest easy knowing that they have the best vendors working on their assets. Washer/dryer rental: Some properties may have these appliances installed or the residents come with their own, but we&#;ve seen the impact on prospective applicants choosing homes due to the convenience of having the washer/dryer available. Security deposit alternatives: Security deposit alternatives come in different packages, but all serve to provide residents ways to be financially liable for damages without having to pay a significant lump sum upfront. Pure insurance, surety bonds, and ACH authorization programs are all versions of deposit alternatives that seek to lower the barriers to rental, which in turn keeps days-on-market low and turnover costs down. Pest control services: Property managers can partner with pest control companies to provide routine or property management pest control services to the homes they manage. Bugs are one of the most common complaints from renters, and having services available to prevent infestation issues is a big win for resident experience. When implementing a full-service, fully managed resident benefits package, you don&#;t have to lose the benefits you already offer. A great service can integrate all of these benefits together &#; delivering more impact to residents, investors, and property managers. How Much Revenue Can I Create Per Unit With a Resident Benefits Package? The amount of ROI on a resident benefits package will vary depending on the property class type, market, and number and type of services offered. Generally speaking, resident benefits packages are often in the $25-75/mo range for residents, but could be more or less. It depends primarily on the amount and type of products and services. To go back to our concept of the experience economy: a resident benefits package gives residents the kind of incredible experience that they will pay and stay for. In short, keeping residents happy can reduce turnover and lead to lower costs and higher ROI for you and your investor. According to Eric Wetherington, VP of Strategic Initiatives at PURE Property Management, &#;Revenue is all about providing a service. The younger generations we&#;re dealing with in property management &#; they want convenience, they want experiences, and they want things to be simple, and they&#;re willing to pay to have things taken care of for them.&#; A fully managed resident benefits package can generate revenue in two key ways: Increasing services to improve resident retention Decreasing costs by increasing efficiency A resident benefits package can help to accomplish both. Routine filter delivery cuts down on HVAC and maintenance costs. A move-in concierge helps cut down time and cost as residents get settled in their new home. Credit building services keep residents invested in paying on time, sending online payments, and delivering incredible value. The list goes on. A resident benefits program creates a huge win for you as a property manager, and your investor, by driving higher ROI over time. How Can Property Managers Implement a Resident Benefits Package? If a resident benefits package is new to your company, you may wonder how best to implement it. Should you roll out a resident benefits package as part of your base service &#; ensuring the maximum benefits for your investor &#; or allow residents to opt in or out? What is legal or not? We do recommend including this as a part of the base package for all residents. Offering optional RBPs creates potential for headache, and the theoretical benefits almost never materialize. According to Second Nature's Head of Sales, Bob Hansen, &#;You have to look at the value that a resident benefits package brings to the investor and the resident, not just you as the property manager.&#; At Second Nature, we&#;ve seen incredibly low pushback from residents when an RBP was introduced. After all, it benefits residents, and most are delighted to have the extra service. How Can Property Managers Reduce Costs With a Resident Benefits package? The answer is: in several ways! Implementing a comprehensive residential benefits package can provide property managers with opportunities to reduce costs and increase operational efficiency. Let&#;s look at examples from the product above. By including air filter delivery as part of the package, property managers can ensure that residents have regular access to clean air filters, reducing the need for costly maintenance and repairs caused by poor air quality. Offering identity protection and credit-building services can help mitigate the financial risks associated with identity theft and delinquent payments, potentially reducing costs related to collections and legal procedures. They also improve retention and encourage on-time payments. Including a resident rewards program can also incentivize desirable behaviors such as timely rent payments or positive referrals, fostering resident satisfaction and reducing turnover costs. By partnering with a renter's insurance program, property managers can transfer potential liability and property damage expenses to the insurance provider, minimizing their own financial risks. A move-in concierge service can streamline the onboarding process for new residents, reducing administrative costs and improving operational efficiency. By providing these benefits, property managers can enhance resident satisfaction and retention, ultimately reducing expenses associated with turnover, repairs, and legal issues. Common Mistakes Property Managers Make in Implementing Resident Benefits Packages In our experience helping property managers implement RBPs, we&#;ve heard our share of concerns or even horror stories from PMs who had bad implementations with other products. Here are some of the most common mistakes in RBP implementations &#; and how to avoid them! 1. Overpromising and underdelivering Property managers may advertise extravagant benefits that they cannot consistently provide or fulfill, leading to disappointment and resident or investor dissatisfaction. Property managers should accurately represent the benefits package, ensuring that the offered perks are realistically achievable and consistently provided to residents. 2. Lack of communication Failing to effectively communicate the details and availability of the benefits package to residents can result in confusion and missed opportunities for using the offered perks. Property managers should effectively communicate the details, availability, and utilization process of the benefits package to residents through multiple channels, such as newsletters and online platforms. 3. Inadequate research and selection Property managers may choose benefits that do not align with the residents' preferences or needs, leading to a lack of interest and underutilization of the package. Property managers should conduct thorough market research and engage with residents to understand their preferences and needs, ensuring that the benefits selected align with their expectations. 4. Failure to evaluate cost-effectiveness Neglecting to assess the costs and benefits of the package can result in offering benefits that are financially unsustainable or fail to provide a satisfactory return on investment. Property managers should regularly assess the costs and benefits of the package, considering factors such as resident utilization, return on investment, and overall financial sustainability to make informed adjustments as needed. 5. Lack of flexibility and adaptability Not regularly reviewing and updating the benefits package based on resident feedback and changing market trends can make it less competitive and less appealing over time. Property managers should actively seek resident feedback, monitor market trends, and periodically review and update the benefits package to ensure it remains competitive and relevant to residents' changing needs. 6. Insufficient staff training Failing to train property management staff on the benefits package and its administration can lead to ineffective communication, missed opportunities, and difficulty addressing resident inquiries or issues. Property managers should provide comprehensive training to their staff on the benefits package, including its features, administration processes, and effective communication strategies, enabling them to effectively support and engage with residents. 7. Neglecting legal and regulatory considerations Property managers must ensure that the benefits package complies with all relevant laws and regulations, such as data protection requirements or fair housing laws, to avoid legal repercussions. Property managers should consult legal experts or advisors to ensure that the benefits package complies with all applicable laws and regulations, protecting both the company and residents. 8. Ineffective marketing and promotion Inadequate marketing efforts to promote the benefits package can result in low resident awareness and limited participation, reducing the overall effectiveness of the package. Property managers should develop a strategic marketing plan that utilizes various channels to promote the benefits package, highlighting its value proposition and actively engaging residents in participating and utilizing the offered perks. 9. Ignoring resident feedback Neglecting to seek and incorporate resident feedback can hinder the improvement and optimization of the benefits package, missing opportunities for enhancing resident satisfaction and retention. Property managers should establish channels for residents to provide feedback on the benefits package, actively listen to their suggestions and concerns, and make necessary adjustments to enhance resident satisfaction. 10. Lack of coordination with vendors Failing to establish clear communication and expectations with vendors offering benefits can lead to subpar service delivery, difficulty resolving issues, or missed opportunities for cost savings. Property managers should establish clear expectations, contracts, and regular communication channels with vendors offering benefits, ensuring a seamless and satisfactory service delivery process for residents and promptly resolving any issues that may arise. This is A LOT to keep in mind, and avoiding these mistakes might feel like it will cost too much or simply take too much work. But that&#;s why opting for a fully managed RBP is a solution so many PMCs are turning to. You can rely on a partner to manage all aspects of your RBP, and ensure it's delivering on its promises to your residents. More on that in the next section. How 1,000+ Property Managers Are Creating Triple Wins With a Resident Benefits Package Rolling out a resident benefits package is a powerful way for property managers to create a Triple Win &#; for residents, investors, and themselves. An RBP like Second Nature&#;s is designed to be simple to use and easy to implement. All the services included within it are managed externally by Second Nature, meaning there is no day-to-day upkeep required from the manager. You plug it in and Second Nature keeps it running. The value creation an RBP generates &#; with such little work required from the PM &#; is an incredibly easy way to grow your business and create great experiences that residents will pay and stay for. Don't get left behind in the evolving world of resident experience. Learn more about our fully-managed Resident Benefits Package and how we can build ease for you, your investors, and your residents. Learn More About RBP from Second Nature
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August 7,
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When it comes to keeping your house warm in the winter months and cooler in the heat of summer, weatherstripping is a necessary task. Weatherstripping simply refers to sealing gaps around doors, windows, and garage doors. Even if your home was weatherstripped when it was built or redone recently, it is still a good idea to periodically inspect your weatherstripping.
Over time, gaps can occur which means your house will be leaking out colder air in the summer months and hot air in the winter. In fact, if you inspect your weatherstripping and ensure it is working as expected, you could save anywhere from 10-15% on future energy bills.
The key to weatherstripping a home correctly is to know what types of materials to use and how to use them. This breakdown provides information on how to best weatherstrip a home using one or more of the common types listed below.
Have you ever walked by a window and felt a nasty draft? Maybe you ran to find a bathrobe or blanket to save yourself from getting goosebumps. As uncomfortable as these currents can be, they can also increase your energy bill and wreak havoc on your home. Plus, if you ignore these air leaks long enough, they will become bigger and more expensive to fix.
Luckily, weatherstripping can effectively seal up gaps and cracks to protect you and your home from the elements. Here is how to inspect your weatherstripping to figure out where drafts are coming from, determine what materials you can use to plug them, and ways to install them so they last a long time.
Various factors can cause your home to develop air leaks and drafts, even if you do not notice any when you first move in. Wood and metal, which comprise most door and window frames, expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. Eventually, this cycle can cause materials to crack and warp.
Expansion can also create friction between surfaces that fit together tightly. Over time, this will wear down wood and create gaps that allow enough room for air exchange. While you might not see them, you can easily feel them in the form of drafts, especially during the colder months.
If you own or hope to buy a newly built home, you must also prepare to weatherstrip and seal up gaps. These days, designers and construction workers tend to prioritize sustainability and energy efficiency. However, even the greenest homes settle over time and end up with gaps around frames and sashes. Therefore, regardless of how old or new your home is, it&#;s important to look for and detect leaks in the building envelope.
If you have detected a few drafts in your home, you may already be aware of where some air leakage occurs. However, there might be additional nooks and crannies you have not noticed. These cracks and gaps continuously let treated air escape your home while allowing the outside air in. This exchange can minimize your efficiency and increase your utility bills.
Therefore, it is essential to locate air leaks and seal them as quickly and thoroughly as possible. Hire a qualified technician or energy auditor to get the most accurate air leakage measurement in your home. Otherwise, you can inspect your weatherstripping using a few different techniques identified below.
One of the easiest ways to determine where air is escaping and entering your home is to feel around your windows and doors. Place your hand near the frame and take note of any cold drafts. You might even notice that your window panes radiate warmth or give off a chill. In this case, you will need to apply more than weatherstripping. However, this initial test is an excellent way to figure out where you might need more insulation.
Because you are warm-blooded, it is easier to detect cold drafts than it is to find hot ones. Therefore, you may need to use a different method to find air leaks during the warmer months. Slip a dollar bill in an open doorway and close the door with the money in place. If you can slip it out, you will want to reseal it as soon as possible.
Check windows, outlets, attic hatches and other areas by lighting an incense stick or candle on windy days. Hold the flame close to these areas. Watch for it to flicker or the smoke to escape through otherwise undetectable gaps and cracks. All these indicate that you have a drafty home while giving you a better idea of which areas to reseal.
Once you know which areas need resealing, you can begin the search for weatherstripping materials. Here are a few of the most common options so you know just what to install to chase away the chill and keep your home comfortable year-round.
Tension seals are durable plastic or metal strips that fold into a V shape and spring open to bridge gaps between sliding windows and door frames. This self-stick material creates a seal by pressing against the sides of a crack to block drafts.
While tension seals are durable, invisible and highly effective, they can be difficult to install if the application surface isn&#;t completely smooth. The primary places that you will use this type of weatherstripping is along the sides of windows as well as the top and sides of doors.
This is an easy to install material, making it desirable for many homeowners to try themselves. However, it may cause windows and doors to be more challenging to open and close so take that into consideration before installing it.
If you are looking for a more affordable option that is easier to install, look no further than felt. This weatherstripping material comes in rolls that you can cut to the correct length. Glue, staple or tack it around doors and windows or fit it into a door jamb to seal gaps. Replace your felt every year or two to combat wear and tear and maximize efficiency.
Felt is typically less effective than other materials. This material can be purchased as either plain felt or reinforced with a metal strip to provide some structure. The places that this weatherstripping material are most often found are around a door or window sash. It installs easily with staples or nails.
Although felt is desirable for many reasons, its primary disadvantage is lack of durability. In fact, although it is inexpensive, felt weatherstripping can only be expected to last a year or two. If you are on a strict budget this might be a good option for your specific needs.
Like felt, foam tape is relatively affordable and can be installed by anyone with basic DIY skills. This material is made from open or closed cell foam or ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber, which comes with a sticky back. Apply foam tape to the tops and bottoms of window sashes, door frames, attic hatches and windows you do not plan to open any time soon. It is an excellent solution for corners and irregular cracks because it comes in various lengths and widths. Reinforce the foam with staples if it peels.
While foam tape is a reasonably durable material, it can be more challenging to install for some novices, making it less desirable for some homeowners. An average DIYer should be able to handle this with ease but a complete novice may struggle at first so know your limitations before taking on a project.
The draftiest places call for heavy-duty solutions, and your front door is no exception. The bottom of this door sees frequent wear and tear as you enter and exit your home each day, eventually resulting in cracks and gaps. Luckily, door sweeps can block resulting drafts and are possibly the most durable type of weatherstripping.
This option is generally made from aluminum or stainless steel and features a brush of plastic, vinyl, sponge or felt. Place them on the bottom interior of in-swinging doors and the exterior of out-swinging ones for maximum efficiency.
They should only be installed in the bottom of the door on the interior side. Installation is more challenging with this material as it will have to be cut to the desired width and installed with screws.
In much the same way, fin seals can protect sliding doors and most windows from air leaks. This type of weatherstripping features a Mylar fin between two rows of brush material. Most people install fin seals on the inner edges of the vertical window frame. However, you may also secure them to the top and bottom of the window or door. Just make sure they do not interfere with functionality.
This is an incredibly durable choice, making it attractive for many consumers. The advantage is that it will last quite a while but the drawback is that it can be difficult to install.
If you have more room in your budget for higher-priced weatherstripping, you might consider magnetic air sealers. This material is similar to the rubber gaskets that help to seal your fridge shut. Place these strips on the tops and sides of drafty doors and double-hung and sliding windows.
If the seals fail to stick together after a few years, re-magnetize them by repeatedly running a magnet in a single direction along each side of the gaskets.
One of the most effective ways to weatherstrip your door is by using interlocking metal channels. This may very well be the most expensive option. However, they do provide an exceptional seal, even if they are more common in commercial buildings as opposed to residential ones.
Interlocking metal channels are quite difficult to install, as perfect alignment is critical. Therefore, if you choose this solution, you may have to hire a professional.
Vinyl and rubber weatherstripping is just as costly as magnetic solutions. However, it is equally effective and, in some cases, easier to install. This material often features a narrow sponge tubing attached to a wood or metal mounting strip. Homeowners tack or staple them around a door to form a tight seal and guard against chills.
With competitive price and timely delivery, I-ECO sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.
Further reading:This material is fairly effective and available in a range of materials. It usually is inserted into a milled groove. This material can be used at the base of doors and windows, window sashes, and at the bottom of doors.
This material is fairly durable and fairly easy to install. However, they will show visibly when installed which may not be desirable for all homeowners.
This type of weatherstripping can only be used to seal beneath a door and is made from aluminum or other types of metal. This is one of the more effective methods to limit cold transfer which is why it has become a popular choice.
The only disadvantage of frost brake thresholds is that they are fairly difficult to install. Homeowners will also have to replace their threshold which may be more than you wish to tackle.
You do not have to spend top dollar on expensive weatherstripping for it to be effective. However, you must install it correctly. Properly applying whichever material you choose will more effectively block drafts.
Although this task can be done by a professional, many homeowners will have no difficulty taking on this home maintenance project. The good news is it is usually a fairly straightforward and quick undertaking. In order to get started, first decide on the material to use. Review availability of those resources and choose based on durability, price, or ease of installation.
After deciding on the material, determine how much weatherstripping you will need. Measure the perimeters of all windows and doors that need to be weatherstripped. Add 5-10% to accommodate any waste.
All weatherstripping should be done only when the temperatures are above 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Weatherstripping should only be applied to clean, dry surfaces so avoid installing during extremely cold or wet weather.
Here are a few ways to ensure a tight seal around the two most drafty elements in your home: doors and windows
Weatherstripping techniques vary depending on your supplies and the size of your air leak. However, there are a few basic guidelines that will help you complete the installation process with minimal hiccups.
If you have the right materials and tools for the job, weatherstripping your door should take no longer than an hour or so from start to finish. If it does, you may be better off hiring a professional, especially if you have invested in materials with a higher price tag.
As long as your windows do not have cracks or missing glass, weatherstripping can ward off air leaks year-round. Here are a few tips for sealing off your drafty windows without shuttering them forever.
Typically, the cheaper and easier your weatherstripping is to install, the sooner you will need to replace it. Inspect it every few months or at least once a year and replace it when you begin to feel drafts or notice any peeling or bending.
Weatherstripping will not do much good if other areas of your home are drafty. Garage doors, attic hatches, in-wall air conditioner units and baseboards are all susceptible to gaps and cracks, which can render your efforts useless if you do not address them, too.
While you can apply weatherstripping to some of these areas, others may require foam or fiberglass insulation.
Protect your garage and everything in it by installing insulation. Use a kit to apply the material to the inside of the door and even the walls. Doing so can prevent the door from freezing to the floor and keep your car safe and warm during the winter.
The same principles apply&#;remove, clean, replace, check for leaks, and resolve any issues that remain. You will most likely use weatherstripping that needs to be screwed in so take that into account when looking at the local hardware store for your options.
Whether your attic is insulated or not, it is wise to add some insulation around the hatch to prevent heat from escaping during winter or coming in during summer. Use weatherstripping to air seal the trim and hatch perimeter, and use foam insulation on each side of the hatch.
Before winter rolls around, you should remove all in-window air conditioner units and close your windows. However, you should also add insulation around these units to prevent hot air from seeping in or cold air from escaping during the summer and fall.
Sometimes, you will notice drafts around baseboards. In this case, you will have to remove the quarter-rounds and apply insulating spray foam to fill any large gaps under each board. You can also place a bead of caulk where the baseboard meets the floorboards before reinstalling the quarter round.
There are many benefits to having a professional weatherstrip your home. These trained individuals will be able to weatherstrip any doors or windows in your home efficiently. If you have never tried weatherstripping before, then you may benefit from having someone trained in this skill. However, if you enjoy home improvement projects, you can usually complete this task on your own. Make your decision based on your comfort and skill level with these tasks.
You should evaluate ad inspect your weatherstripping on an annual basis for the best results. Most weatherstripping materials can be expected to last longer than this but wear and tear, especially during periods of harsh weather may lead to leaks or damage.
Here are 10 weatherstripping frequently asked questions that may help you decide what, how, when, why, where, and who can resolve any weatherstripping issues you may have. If nothing else, you will have more insight into several key weatherstripping practices helpful tips.
If properly installed weatherstripping can lower your energy bill. Weatherstripping can also significantly cut down or eliminate drafts. Also, because of its versatility, it can be easily installed in both older and newer homes.
To prevent air, ice, pests, rain, sand, water, and wind from entering a property unwanted. It can also increase both the function and life of doors and windows.
The best time to replace your weather-stripping is when you feel, hear, or see a change in airflow around your doors and/or windows. As part of a regular home maintenance plan, it is smart to check your weather-stripping every year at a minimum.
On the inside of the door or surrounding frame grooves for newer houses but for older homes you will need to add the weatherstripping.
Measure from corner to corner and allow for slight overlap or excess. As a rule, measure twice so you know what size weatherstripping to buy when you visit a local hardware store.
The gap acts as an air return when the door is closed. The gap ensures airflow thru the supply ductwork.
For casement windows, place the weatherstripping around the window jamb next to the stops. For double hung windows, apply weatherstripping between the sash and jamb.
Generally, foam tape is excellent to use for weather-stripping windows. It comes in varying widths and thickness.
It is called an architrave. An Architrave is a piece of wood that is placed around the door frame to cover the gap between the door frame and the wall.
Yes if installed correctly. Weather stripping seals gaps around doors and windows to keep out air and water.
Weatherstripping your home for improved energy efficiency is fairly easy and inexpensive. It is also one of those projects most homeowners can tackle themselves. Just remember, not only are you trying to conserve energy, but you are also trying to prevent insects and bugs from having easy access to your home.
If you are unsure how drafty your home is, or want to make sure your weatherstripping is up to par, hire an energy auditor to inspect your home. They can tell you how efficient it is and how you can further improve insulation, weatherstripping and more to save money and the planet. Hopefully, you will never have to deal with those bothersome and costly drafts again.
When done correctly, you should see utility bill savings, and have peace of mind knowing you have eliminated both window and door drafts. With many options to pick from, there is little doubt you will find exactly what you need for your home. Happy installation!
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