Coastal winds, humidity, and temperature swings in the Lowcountry can wear down door seals faster than most homeowners realize. When air slips through gaps around your exterior door, your HVAC system works harder, energy bills climb, and moisture can sneak in—leading to swelling, rot, or mold over time.

At Legacy Home Helpers, we help homeowners reseal existing doors or replace damaged ones to improve comfort, efficiency, and curb appeal.

How to Tell If Your Door Is Leaking Air

Before replacing a door, start by checking the weatherstripping and sweep. Here are a few simple ways to find hidden gaps:

1. The Candle Test - On a breezy day, close and latch the door. Slowly move a lit candle or incense stick around the edges of the door frame. If the flame flickers or smoke wavers noticeably, you’ve found an air leak. (Be cautious and keep the flame away from curtains or finishes.)

2. The Flashlight Test - At night, have someone shine a flashlight from outside while you stand inside with the lights off. If you see light around the edges, air is getting through.

3. Feel for Temperature Differences - Run your hand slowly around the door perimeter. Cool air in winter or warm, humid air in summer can often be felt along worn seals—especially at the bottom sweep.

4. Visual Inspection - Look for:

• Cracked, brittle, or flattened weatherstripping

• Gaps at the corners

• Daylight under the door

• A torn or dragging door sweep

How to Replace Weatherstripping (Step-by-Step)

If the door itself is in good shape, replacing weatherstripping is often a simple, affordable fix.

Step 1: Remove the Old Material - Peel or pull away the existing weatherstripping. If it’s nailed in, gently pry it out. Clean the channel or surface thoroughly to remove debris or adhesive residue.

Step 2: Measure Carefully - Measure the top and both sides of the door frame. Cut new weatherstripping to exact length for a snug fit—tight corners matter.

Step 3: Install the New Seal - Press adhesive-backed weatherstripping firmly into place, or nail in compression-style seals as directed. The seal should lightly compress when the door closes—too tight and it may prevent proper latching.

Step 4: Replace the Door Sweep (If Needed) - Unscrew the old sweep from the bottom of the door. Cut the new one to size and secure it evenly so it just brushes the threshold without dragging excessively.

Step 5: Test the Fit - Open and close the door several times. Make sure it latches smoothly and there’s no binding. Repeat the candle test to confirm airflow has stopped.

When It’s Time to Replace the Door

Sometimes weatherstripping isn’t enough. Consider full replacement if you notice:

• Warped or swollen door panels

• Soft wood from moisture damage

• Rusted or bent metal doors

• Significant misalignment

• Persistent drafts even after resealing

In coastal areas like Charleston and Goose Creek, prolonged humidity exposure can cause frames to shift or deteriorate. A properly installed, insulated exterior door with quality seals can significantly improve comfort and energy efficiency.

Safety & Pro Tips

• Choose weather-resistant materials rated for exterior use.

• Make sure hinges are tight and properly aligned before sealing.

• If replacing the entire door, have a second person help—doors are heavier than they look.

• Don’t overtighten seals; too much compression can damage the frame over time.

Don’t Want to DIY It?

If you’d rather skip the measuring and cutting—or if your door is damaged and needs full replacement—Legacy Home Helpers can handle it.

We reseal existing doors with insulation-rated sweeps and compression seals, adjust frames and hinges, and install new exterior doors when needed. We’ll make sure everything closes smoothly, seals tightly, and looks great.

Seal your home against drafts and moisture the right way. Contact Legacy Home Helpers today to schedule exterior door resealing or replacement in Charleston, Summerville, or Goose Creek.