Top 5 Winter-Proof Repairs with Flex Paste

“Top 5 Winter-Proof Repairs with Flex Paste” was written by the Flex Seal Editorial Team. All photos taken by Flex Seal Studios.”

With January bringing the full force of winter’s chill, it’s essential that your home is sealed against drafts, moisture, and cold temperatures. But if you didn’t prepare your home before winter, it’s not too late! Flex Paste helps seal and protect vulnerable areas such as windows, doors, and more, even in the middle of the season. And with our newest addition, Flex Paste Clear, you can make your repairs virtually invisible. In this blog, we’ll show you 5 Flex Paste fixes that can help keep your home protected this winter and beyond.

Top 5 Winter-Proof Repairs with Flex Paste

Note: When applying Flex Paste in a cartridge to the exterior of your home, we recommend doing so on the warmest winter days, if possible, as all cartridge-type materials handle and adhere better when the temperature is well above freezing.

1. Seal Drafty Windows and Doors

Small gaps around windows and doors can let in cold air, making it difficult to keep your home warm and comfortable. Use Flex Paste in a cartridge to seal these drafty areas with pinpoint precision. Start by cleaning the area and removing any old caulk or sealant that may be in place. Then, apply a smooth layer of Flex Paste along the edges to create an airtight seal that helps keep warmth inside.

Flexpert Tip: For maximum draft protection, combine Flex Paste with weather-stripping around operable parts of doors and windows to further reduce heat loss

2. Repair Cracks in Indoor Concrete Floors

Cracks in concrete floors, such as those in basements or garages, can let in cold air and moisture, which may worsen with freezing temperatures. Flex Paste in our Stay Fresh container is an easy solution to help seal these areas and prevent further damage. Clean the area to remove any loose material, dirt, or dust. Then apply Flex Paste directly into the cracks, pressing it downward and smoothing it out with a putty knife. This waterproof seal helps maintain a more comfortable indoor environment by keeping moisture out.

Flexpert Tip: For large cracks, apply in multiple layers of ¼” thickness or less, allowing each one to dry before adding the next. This helps build a stronger, longer-lasting seal.

3. Insulate and Protect Basement Foundation Cracks

Small cracks in your basement foundation can let in drafts or moisture, making the space harder to keep warm. Flex Paste is excellent for sealing these hairline cracks, offering a flexible, waterproof barrier that holds up in cold temperatures. Apply Flex Paste to any cracks you find in your basement walls to help improve insulation and reduce heat loss. Make sure the surface is clean and dry for the best adhesion. Layer Flex Paste in areas with larger cracks for a durable seal.

Flexpert Tip: Note that it is best practice to seal the outside of the basement wall because this prevents porous blocks from filling with water. This can be a significant project because it involves digging around the basement wall and this may require a professional waterproofing contractor for best results.

4. Strengthen Pipe Seals in Basements or Utility Rooms

Basements and utility rooms often have gaps around pipes or conduits where cold air can enter. Applying Flex Paste helps create a durable, insulating seal around these openings, helping to reduce drafts and improve overall warmth. Clean the area around each pipe and ensure surfaces are dry for optimal adhesion. Using a putty knife, apply Flex Paste to any visible gaps, making sure to smooth it out for a seamless finish.

Flexpert Tip: If the wall is an exterior one, seal the outside of the wall before sealing the interior, noting that if the utility entrance is far below grade, the project may require a waterproofing contractor.

5. Block Cold Air from Pet Doors or Basement Windows

Just like other exterior doors and windows, pet doors and basement windows can be major sources of heat loss if not properly sealed. Flex Paste can be used to seal around these areas, improving insulation and keeping indoor temperatures more stable. Apply Flex Paste around the outside edges of pet doors and window frames to block drafts and make your home feel warmer.

Flexpert Tip: For better insulation, layer Flex Paste by applying an initial coat, letting it dry, and adding a second layer if needed. You may also want to install weatherstripping.

Protecting your property from winter weather doesn’t have to be complicated. These 5 simple Flex Paste repairs can help keep your home warmer and more energy-efficient all season long. Flex Paste’s Stay Fresh container makes it easy to store any leftover paste, allowing you to make additional touch-ups or repairs throughout the year. Start the year off right by protecting your home with the power of the Flex Paste.