Weather stripping your windows is easy and it can cut energy costs. Getting ready for winter weather? Sealing air leaks in your windows is a good way to prepare your home for winter. Winterizing your home not only keeps out drafts, it can lower your heating bill.
Tools & Materials
Home Weatherization
Weather stripping can help seal air leaks in areas of your home, such as doors, windows and attic access points. If you decide to take on an entire home sealing project, identify all the air leaks in your home, including those in unseen holes or pathways in your plumbing, wiring and HVAC system.
Weather stripping windows is easy. However, there are different ways of weather stripping double-hung and casement windows. Follow the appropriate instructions for your window type.
Weather Stripping Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows require both self-adhesive foam insulation and V-channel weather stripping. Follow the instructions below to weather strip double-hung windows.
Step 1Clean the bottom of the sash with soap and water and let dry.
Step 2Cut the foam weather stripping to length.
Step 3Peel the back from the foam. Press the adhesive side of the foam against the
bottom of the sash to form a tight bond.
Step 4Clean the jamb with soap and water. Allow it to dry completely.
Step 5Cut two pieces of V-channel 1″ longer than each sash height.
Step 6Peel the back from the V-channel and work it between the sash stiles and the jamb. Press the channel firmly into the jamb.
Step 7Drive finish nails through the weather stripping into the jamb to hold it securely. Test the sash to ensure it doesn’t catch on the nails.
Step 8Clean the back of the bottom sash with soapy water and allow it to dry completely.
Step 9Cut a piece of V-channel to match the width of the sash.
Step 10With the sash raised 3″ to 4″, peel the back from the channel and press it firmly into the back of the sash even with the top. The V should open facing up so the weather stripping compresses when the window is closed.
Weather Stripping Casement Windows
Casement windows only require self-adhesive foam insulation. Follow the instructions below to weather strip casement windows.
Step 1Open the window and clean the outside of the stops with soapy water. Allow the stops to dry completely.
Step 2Cut self-adhesive foam to fit the top, bottom and sides of the stops.
Step 3Remove the back from each piece of foam and press it into the outside of the stops.
