weatherstripping casement windows

If your casement windows are air leaking, it’s easy to weatherstrip them. Basically, you just have to apply proper weatherstripping around the stops of the window, in order to create a tight seal when the window edges press against it.

This type of windows can’t be effectively sealed by placing weatherstripping outside. The adhesive should be placed on the interior frame, where the sash makes contact.

Weatherstripping materials for casement windows

You may use adhesive backed tape (made from foam or sponge rubber, with various widths and thickness). This self-adhesive material is by far the most common solution. It’s easy to install, easily available, and inexpensive.

Its major disadvantage is that it wears quickly. Very likely you will have to install it every two years or so. All depends on wear…

Reinforced felt can also be tried, as well as special gaskets (in the form of tubular vinyl, silicone or sponge-rubber tubes). These gaskets will last longer - at least 5 years - while tapes and felts may last just 1 or 2 years.

Cleaning the stops of the window

Before applying any self-adhesive material, clean carefully the surface where weatherstripping is to be applied. In many cases you may use simple detergent and water. If there is residues of old paint, cleaning may require proper solvents, and a more demanding initial job. If adhesive weatherstripping had been previously installed, you may use petroleum jelly to remove it. Do not apply the weatherstripping material without well cleaned and dried surfaces.

Temperatures

Materials like adhesive foams require at least 50º-60ºF to get a good bond. In this case, select a sufficiently warm day to apply the weatherstripping.

Applying adhesive backed tape

Use the adhesive tape on all four sides of the window stops.

Apply carefully the adhesive along the stops of the casement while removing its backing. Pay attention to the manufacturer instructions.

To make a tight bond (after laying the weatherstripping) apply pressure all over the adhesive. You may use your finger...

Applying felt

Use the felt on all four sides of the window stops. The appliance is very similar to that of adhesive tape. Just cut to length and staple or tack the material into place.

Applying gaskets (tubes of sponge rubber, vinyl and Silicone)

Use the gaskets on all four sides of the window stops. Weatherstrip Gasket Silicone

Weatherstripping gaskets allow a tight seal and a better durability than adhesive felts and tapes (gaskets are also a more expensive material).

The gasket tubes come with a flange that should be stapled over the stops of the window. Pay attention to the instructions on the package.