The focus of this article is to show you how to install window weather stripping. With winter just around the corner, you may need to spend some time prepping your windows for the pending cold weather. Of course, we believe you should upgrade your windows to modern, energy efficiency windows and avoid all this nonsense. But if new, replacement windows are not in your budget just yet, the tips below may get you through one more winter season.
Quick Tips on How to Install Window Weather Stripping
Exterior Caulking: Inspect the condition of the existing caulking on the exterior of your windows. Look for gaps between the window trim and the siding of your home and replace or re-caulk the window as needed.
Interior Caulking: Move to the inside of your home and look for gaps between the interior trim and the drywall. Use a paintable caulk to fill the gaps and create a tight seal.
Install Storm Windows: Take advantage of the last few weeks of fair weather and install your storm windows now. If your storm windows remain in place year-round, this is a good time to close the lower sash. Look for gaps in the storm windows and apply a foam, weather-tight seal.
Replace the Upper Sash Seal: Lower the upper sash and inspect the top seal. If the sash is equipped with metal weather stripping, you may be able to re-spring the seal by bending it upwards to create a tight seal. If the metal weather stripping is bent or crushed beyond repair, its time for a replacement.
Replace the Lower Sash Seal: Raise the lower sash and inspect the bottom weather stripping for damage. Just like we did on the upper sash weather stripping, you may be able to bend it back into shape. Otherwise, replace the seal with a new metal strip from the hardware store.
If you discover that the strip is missing completely, or if the windows were never equipped with a seal in the first place, you can improvise by purchasing and installing a foam seal or an EPM Rubber Bubble Seal. A quality rubber seal will last for years, while the foam may only last 2 or 3 years before you need to replace it. Make sure the window will fully close and latch properly before installing the new bubble seal on the remainder windows in your home.
Temporary Fix: If you live in an older home with old, loose fitting window sashes, you can implement a temporary fix. Install rope seal around the entire perimeter of the window on the inside of your home. The rope seal can easily be pulled off the windows when spring rolls around, so you can enjoy the fresh air. Alternatively, you can use a product called “Zip-A-Way” which is applied just like regular caulking, but it easily peels off the windows the following spring. Unlike the rope seal, “Zip-A-Way” creates an aesthetically pleasing bead that won’t be noticeable by visitors.
Check out this Video on How to Install Window Weather Stripping
Special thanks to the folks at Columbia Power Partners!
“Taking the time to properly install window weather stripping can lower your monthly utility bill by as much as 15%”
While the video may offer some temporary tips on how to install window weather stripping, you should consider a more permanent fix. Contact the Window Repair Guy for pricing on replacement windows.
Need professional help to install window weather stripping on your windows? Contact our support team at (815) 634-8922.