Sliding windows weatherstripping

Air leakage is often a problem in gliding windows; their felt and pile weatherstripping is often too inefficient, and replacing them is a priority, in many cases. Try weather-strip with plastic fin (centered in pile): this is a durable material, though rather difficult to install.

It’s easy to get materials for weatherstripping sliding wood windows and doors, and only a little tricky to apply it. But that’s not the same for sliding metal and doors.

Sliding Metal windows and doors

There are few weatherstripping materials in the home hardware stores for metal sliding windows and doors, and it can be tricky to carry out the job, without technical knowing. Original weatherstripping materials are embedded in the window structures, which makes their improvement and replacement difficult.

To weatherstrip metal windows, it’s best to contact a weatherstripping professional…

Sliding wood windows weatherstripping materials

Sliding wood windows are best weather-stripped with metal V-strips. That’s by far the commonest solution, due to its durability.

The application

Applying metal V-strip weatherstripping to sliding windows is similar to applying it in double-hung windows.

If both sashes move, apply the V-strip materials as you would for a double-hung window turned sideways.

See: Double-Hung Windows Weatherstripping

Alternatives to V-Strips

If you don’t plan to open your windows during long periods, you may simply use adhesive-backed tape/foam on the sashes channels. If, for instance, you live in a cold climate and you close your windows down in winter, and usually do not open them during the whole period, adhesive tape foams are a good solution, and you may even reuse them in other future seasons.

Do not paint any of these materials. Some people are tempted to camouflage these products with paint, but that diminishes their sealing ability.

Tapes Application

Before applying the adhesive tape, clean the surfaces where the products are going to be applied and cut them with the proper length. Pay attention to the instructions on the package. To make a tight bond apply pressure all over the adhesive, using your finger...