Rainwater always finds its way into homes through gaps and small openings. This can affect furniture, make your home wet, and be a big hassle. Many permanent solutions are available on the market that helps deal with the issue.
You can opt for anything from the long list of options, including draft stoppers, weather stripping, door sweep, threshold ramp, door canopy, or a water-resistant rug.
For more detailed information on each of these options, please continue reading.
Why Is Rain Entering?
Rain can enter from under your door if a gap between the door and the threshold allows water to seep through. This can happen for various reasons, such as worn-out weatherstripping, damaged or missing door sweeps, misaligned door hinges, or a warped door frame.
It’s important to identify the cause of the problem and take appropriate measures to fix it to prevent further water damage to your home.
Below we discuss six quick solutions to help save your home from rainwater.
Draft Stopper
A draft stopper is a fabric tube filled with materials like sand or foam that seals the gap between the door and the threshold. It is placed in front of the door as close as possible to the gap.
The draft stopper creates a barrier that prevents water from seeping in. Moreover, it also reduces the air, dust, and small insects from entering the home. Draft stoppers come in different designs and can be customized to fit the aesthetic of your home well.
They are also inexpensive, a quick solution, and very efficient when used.
Weather Stripping
Weatherstripping is a thin strip of material made of rubber or foam. The main goal of weather stripping is to seal any gaps that are in the door frame. It is installed on the perimeters and is known to keep air, dust, and water out.
A wide range of weather stripping options are available on the market, catering to several purposes. Some of the types are:
- Felt weather stripping
- Foam weather stripping
- Frost-brake
- Tension-seal
Do your thorough research and look for what works best for the specific type of door you have in your home. Weatherstripping that fits perfectly is a great, affordable solution to many problems, but most importantly, it seals gaps and prevents rainwater from entering.
However, weather stripping can wear very quickly. A need to replace weather stripping may be felt within a few months of a new installation. The good news is installation is not a difficult task and can be done at home with the help of a few tools.
You’ll need to measure the length of your door frame and purchase weather stripping material that’s the right size. Then, clean the door frame thoroughly and remove any old weather stripping. Cut the new weather stripping to size and attach it to the frame, creating a tight seal between the door and the frame.
Door Sweep
A door sweep is a strip of rubber or plastic that is strategically attached to the bottom of the door to seal any gaps that may be there. When the door is closed, no elements like dust or water are allowed to enter through the bottom.
Door sweeps are inexpensive and can be installed at home. You just need to ensure you buy the right size and type for your specific door. Then attach it snugly, and the door is good to go!
Apart from preventing water from entering your home, a door sweep can also regulate your home’s temperature and reduce energy costs. Moreover, it does not disrupt the door’s appearance because it is completely invisible.
Threshold Ramp
A threshold ramp is another effective way to prevent rainwater from entering your home.
The threshold ramp comprises durable, weather-resistant aluminum, rubber, or PVC materials. This acts as a barrier between the rainwater and the threshold and prevents water from moving to the threshold.
It is attached to the bottom of the doorway and increases the height of the threshold, giving it a steeper look and allowing rainwater to flow away from home.
Threshold ramps can be costly but serve your home well and provide a lot of longevity. They can also be customized to fit better with the look of your doorway and home.
Door Canopy
As the name suggests, a door canopy is an overhead covering installed on top of doors. This prevents any rainwater from touching the door and entering the home.
Door canopies are made up of durable, water-resistant materials like metals and polycarbonate. These are one of the most effective solutions and prevent the door from water damage and from protecting it from sunlight and winds.
They come in different shapes, sizes, and designs. You can have a canopy as big or as small as you wish, depending on the coverage you require and how much rain your area experiences.
Water-Resistant Rug
A water-resistant rug can be convenient if you have an emergency and do not have time for elaborate solutions. These are made from materials that repel water and prevent it from soaking through the rug’s fibers.
To get the full benefit of a water-resistant rug, place it near your door and ensure that you get it into the crevices or gaps that may be there under your door. This will create a barrier that keeps rainwater out.
The best part about water-resistant rugs is that they come in various types, shapes, and colors. You can pick these rugs to complement your home decor and outdoor style. They are also easy to clean and store.
However, water-resistant rugs are only a temporary solution. These might save your home during a few rainy days, but you must move towards a more effective, long-lasting, permanent solution that keeps elements outside.
Final Thoughts
Big problems like rainwater entering the home usually have small, quick, affordable fixes. The variety of solutions also helps you decide which method would work best for your needs.