{"id":101775,"date":"2025-11-03T10:15:02","date_gmt":"2025-11-03T16:15:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.andersonlock.com\/?p=101775"},"modified":"2025-11-18T12:42:39","modified_gmt":"2025-11-18T18:42:39","slug":"commercial-weatherstripping-chicago","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.andersonlock.com\/blog\/commercial-weatherstripping-chicago\/","title":{"rendered":"Weatherstripping: The Key to Lower Heating Bills when Winter Hits Chicago"},"content":{"rendered":"

Winter is coming in Chicago, and that means the furnaces kicking on and the perpetual battle between wanting to stay warm with trying to keep the heating bill from getting too high. What if we told you there was a way to save up to 30% on energy costs that is also one of the most affordable energy-saving upgrades?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Let us introduce you to a little thing called commercial weatherstripping<\/em>.<\/span><\/p>\n

With a name like Anderson Lock, it might seem like we only work on locks, right? WRONG<\/strong>. We\u2019re also an industry leader in commercial doors and door hardware. And if you own or manage a property in Chicago or the surrounding region, you better know a thing or two about weatherstripping and door closers. Keeping your house and building warm begins with these two things. You want to make sure that your door is closing and sealing in a timely fashion. If it isn’t, that leaves more time for colder air to seep through. Now let’s dive deeper into weatherstripping.<\/span><\/p>\n

What, Exactly, is Weatherstripping?\"\"<\/span><\/h2>\n

Weatherstripping isn\u2019t just one thing \u2014 it\u2019s more of a catch-all term for things that serve a similar purpose. Just like the word \u201cseat\u201d can refer to anything you might choose to sit upon, be it a couch, chair, or tree stump, \u201cweatherstripping\u201d refers to a group of weatherproofing solutions that block the flow of air around doors and windows.<\/span><\/p>\n

When properly installed and maintained, commercial weatherstripping can significantly reduce your heating costs by keeping warm air in and cold air out especially during heavy rainfall or our Chicago snowstorms. Your heating system also won\u2019t have to work so hard, meaning less wear and tear on it. It\u2019s a simple solution, but it can increase the longevity of your building.<\/span><\/p>\n

Without even knowing it, you\u2019re already familiar with weatherstripping. It\u2019s the foam tape you use to install a window unit air conditioner, the little brushes on the bottom of sliding doors, or the vinyl flaps that sweep the floor in a revolving door.<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s a remarkably cost-efficient way to weatherproof your building.<\/span><\/p>\n

How to Tell if You Have Air Leaks<\/span><\/h2>\n

If you own or manage an older building, chances are you\u2019re well aware of where you have leaks and drafts. One tell tale sign is if you have snow collecting <\/span>inside<\/i><\/strong> your window. There are other tests for less dramatic gaps and leaks.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you can shake or jiggle the door or window, that indicates there may be gaps. Sometimes a gap is visible to the naked eye. If your HVAC costs begin to climb for no obvious reason, you may be starting to have some air leak issues. If you have tenants, they may report new cold spots or temperature issues.<\/span><\/p>\n

If it\u2019s not as obvious, use the Paper Test: Close your door or window on a piece of paper, then try to pull the paper out. If it requires some effort, then your existing seal is doing pretty good work. If it comes out pretty easily, then you probably have a problem.<\/span><\/p>\n

For compression weatherstripping (any material soft enough for the door to compress to form a seal), test the pliability of the material with your fingers. If it\u2019s soft enough to mold to the door, you\u2019re in good shape. If it\u2019s hard or brittle, then it is probably not working at max efficiency.<\/span><\/p>\n

Know Your Types of Commercial Weatherstripping\"\"<\/span><\/h2>\n

While weatherproofing your building can include installing hollow doors or air lock\/double entryways, weatherstripping refers to materials specifically designed to be installed on doors and windows to block airflow between your building\u2019s interior and exterior.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adhesive-backed Tape<\/span><\/h3>\n

Like it sounds, this rubber or foam weatherstripping literally sticks on your door or window.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pros:\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n