weatherstripping double hung windows

For a durable and effective weatherstripping of your wood double-hung windows consider using V-strip materials. There are other alternatives, often cheaper and easier to install, but they have a much smaller lifespan.

The V-strip Weatherstripping materials

The typical V-strips (also called V-shape tension seals, V-channels...) for double hung windows are 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 are easier to apply than regular V-strips without the self-sticking feature.

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 to double hung windows

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

1- Preparation, namely by cleaning and removing old paint and other residues;
2- Application of the V-Strips on each side jamb of the window;
3- Application of the 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 or other resides in the side jambs and top sash, remove them. You may need to scrape the residues or to plane the sides.

Applying V-strips to side jambs

Cut two pieces of V-strip taking into account the side jambs 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 in place. Test the sash to see if it works smoothly.

Applying V-strips on the top sash of the double Hung windows

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 must open facing up. Only so it will compress and seal the window.