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The Horseshoe Astragal Seal.
Winter is coming and with it comes the cold, seeping through small cracks in windows, walls and doorways to enter our homes. Besides for the chill, these small openings can add to your budget as your furnace has to work harder and longer to keep your home at a comfortable even temperature. Since every home is unique, it is important to identify where the cracks are and take effective countermeasures to ensure that your home retains heat, and blocks out the cold.
One of the most common places is of course the door. Besides for it constantly being opened, (Thanks kids!) they often don’t fit tightly against the doorpost and are prone to having small spaces where the cold wind can sneak through. However even after you identify which door might be the issue, different doors will have different methods to ensure that these gaps are covered and that the door fits snugly where it is supposed to.
For single doors, some of the best solutions involve using a weather-strip along the sides such as the Kerf Weatherstripping , and / or a door sweep like the Double Bubble Door Sweep along the bottom edge.
The Astragal Seal: Enhancing Double Door Efficiency
Double doors, have a "post" called the Astragal in between the doors. The Astragal serves a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the seal between double doors. Traditionally, it acts as a vertical bolt that secures one of the doors in place when the other is closed, and at the same time prevents drafts and cold air from blowing into the interior of your home. This minimizes heat loss and keeps the interior warm and comfortable during the coldest months.
Beyond functionality, the Astragal has also become a design element in its own right. Crafted from various materials like wood, metal, or composite materials, homeowners now have options to choose Astragals that not only serve their practical purpose but also complement the aesthetic of their homes. Intricate designs and finishes add a touch of elegance, turning a functional element into a visually appealing feature of the door ensemble.
One notable advancement in Astragal technology is the integration of insulation materials within its core. Utilizing foam or rubber inserts, modern Astragal seals provide an additional layer of thermal resistance. This advancement significantly enhances the seal's ability to maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing heating costs and enhancing overall comfort during colder months.
Moreover, contemporary Astragal seals often incorporate magnetic strips or gaskets. These magnetic enhancements ensure a tight closure between the doors, effectively sealing off any gaps that could compromise the insulation. This magnetic feature not only reinforces the seal but also allows for ease of operation, ensuring that the doors align effortlessly and stay securely closed.
Furthermore, some Astragal seals now come equipped with weather-resistant properties. These seals are crafted from durable materials capable of withstanding harsh environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures, UV exposure, and moisture. This durability prolongs the lifespan of the seal, ensuring long-term effectiveness in preserving energy efficiency and structural integrity.
The importance of a well-maintained Astragal extends beyond its role during winter. It contributes to the overall security of double doors, enhancing their ability to resist forced entry. Reinforced Astragals with additional security features provide peace of mind to homeowners concerned about both insulation and safety.
The Horseshoe Astragal seal works in tandem with this. It mounts to the sill and top jamb of the door and is designed to seal where the Astragal meets the sill and head. Made for French/Double Doors, it creates a weather-tight seal between the threshold and the Astragal. Comes with two sets of seals to fit most profiles of Wood, Composite and PVC Astragals, and can be easily painted or stained to match your doors. This kit also includes 2 top horseshoes, 2 bottom horseshoes, and six installation screws.
With its diverse range of features and adaptability, the Astragal seal remains a vital asset in fortifying double doors against external elements while ensuring a cozy and energy-efficient indoor environment year-round.
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