weatherstripping double hung windows

For a durable and effective weatherstripping of your wood double-hung windows you may use V-strip materials. There are cheaper and easier to install alternatives, but with a much smaller lifespan.

The V-strip materials

The regular V-strips (also called V-shape tension seals, V-channels...) are usually made from metal (bronze, aluminum, copper and stainless-steel), vinyl or polypropylene, and are commonly sold in rolls..

Many modern V-strips are self-sticking (they have a peel-and-stick backing) and they are easier to apply than regular V-strips, without the self-sticking option.

You may choose otherwise, but - in the case of double-hung windows - many glaziers prefer to apply vinyl V-strip to side jambs and bronze V-strip on top sash.

Installing Adhesive V-strips

Installing the V-strips in double-hung windows involves three main steps:

1- Preparation, namely cleaning and removing old paint residues
2- Applying V-Strips on each side jambs of the window
3- Applying V-Strips on the back of the top sash

Preparation

Clean carefully the surfaces where the weatherstrip is going to be applied. Use soap and water, and dry them completely. If there are residues of old paint in the side jambs and top sash, remove them. You may need to scrape the paint and even to plane the sides so the window operates properly.

Applying V-strips to side jambs

Cut two pieces of V-strip to the side jambs, taking into account their height. Cut them 1" longer than the sash height.

Peel the back from the foam (or vinyl or metal…) and press the adhesive side firmly into the jamb.

Typically you should also drive nails through the weatherstripping to hold it securely. Nailing is a guarantee that weatherstripping will remain long in place. Test the sash to see if it works smoothly.

Applying V-strips on top sash

Cut a V-strip (bronze…) peace taking into account the width of the sash. It should match that width.

To install the V-strip on the top sash, raise it 3" to 4" (8-12 cm). Then peel the back of the V-strip (if you are using self-sticking strips) and press it firmly into the back of the top sash. Pay attention: the V-strip should open facing up. Only so it will compress and seal when the window is closed.