Window and door drafts

[I_Make_Mistakes]

this was a post from starroute:

"On a windy day, it's easy to tell where the cold is getting in. Often around the windows, sometimes at the baseboards. Just fill the gaps -- rope caulk is temporary and can come off next spring -- and you'll be a lot cozier for less expense." Starroute.

I went to Sear's hardware and the 20yr. old clerk didn't know what this was, and it was warm so I didn't pursue, but I plan to this week.

It might be helpful to the rest of you.

[Digit]

1. I think it is called Mortite

I would let my frugal fingers do the walking and call hardware stores until you find it.
I have never seen it at the big box stores, although I am acquainted with the product.

[I_Make_Mistakes]

2. Thanks, I asked starroute if there was another name, but he didn't

know of one!

[Digit]

4. Rope caulk

Basically, it is putty in thin rope form.
http://www.energyfederation.org/econnergy/default.php/cPath/21_392_71

http://doityourself.com/store/ropecaulk.htm

[wildeyed]

3. I assume he means latex caulk rather than silicone.

The latex is water based and can be cleaned up with water and a sponge.

http://www.powerhousetv.com/stellent2/groups/public/documents/pub/phtv_se_we_bu_000531.hcsp#P-4_0

[I_Make_Mistakes]

5. I finally got around to buying this stuff, it is cool that it comes in so

many colors. I have brown windows and doors, so I got the woodtone. I stink at caulking and hope they have almond so I can redo the bathrooms and kitchen. I even found on google that people are using it for the sound systems, and yes the box says sound deadener, insect barrier etc. This stuff is indoor/outdoor and so incredibly useful, FYI approx. 90 ft for $4.97!

On edit:

It comes in a strip of 8, I believe bands (one band is the approx. bead width of a good caulking job), so you can adjust the size of the seal by the number of beads you use (1-8). It is the texture of play dough so it is very easy to work with. I love this stuff, as far as the savings, that remains to be seen! I have a feeling it will be more than I expected. I got it at Home Depot because I was there for their energy efficiency class.

[xmas74]

6. I also use "snakes" around the windows and in front of the door.

Old clothes that cannot be used anymore are cut up, filled w/ rags or polyfill and simply sewn up into the shape of a snake. You put them tightly in front of the window or the door and it keeps the draft out.
I like that I can use things already around my house. I have also gone to thrift shops for the clothes. Sometimes they get donations that cannot be resold (heavily stained, torn) and they will give them to you for free just to get them off of their hands. Takes me about a half hour total to make one-I make them while watching tv.

[I_Make_Mistakes]

7. We in South NJ have had cool, not cold and a warm winter.

The mortite worked well at first, (cool weather) but has since been falling off everywhere. I would not recommend it and will try the bubble wrap solution!