window weatherstripping basics

Operable windows are a common cause of drafts and air leakage, due to small gaps in their jambs and sashes (double-hung and sliding windows...) or their stops (casement, awning and hopper windows).

Handling these gaps (window weatherstripping) is obviously important. Handling the larger air leaks in your attic, walls and basements is vital and should precede window weatherstripping, but this shouldn't be minimized.

Caulking vs. window weatherstripping: caulking involves the rough opening and the static parts of the window, while window weatherstripping involves the movable parts of the windows and is associated to their operation and the way they open and close: the sashes, the jambs, the stops...

Small gaps in windows and doors parts can produce large losses of energy.

Window weatherstripping & Types of Windows

The type of weatherstripping varies a lot with the type of windows. Weatherstripping a casement window and weatherstripping a double-hung window require different materials and procedures...

Weatherstripping materials

Weatherstrips for windows come in several sizes, shapes and materials: metal, vinyl, plastic, rubber, felt, foam (or a combination of some these materials).

See: Weatherstripping materials

Double-Hung windows

To get a durable and effective weatherstripping for your wood double-hung windows, prefer V-strip materials. Most professionals apply vinyl V-strip to side jambs and bronze V-strip on top sash.

See: Double-Hung Windows Weatherstripping and Double Hung/Sliding Windows

Casement windows

Casement (and awning and windows are easy to weatherstrip and involves the stops of the window…

See: Casement Windows Weatherstripping and Casement Windows

Sliding windows

Weatherstripping sliding wood windows is tricky, but there are many materials to achieve it, contrary to what happens with metal sliding windows.

See: Sliding Windows Weatherstripping and Gliding/Sliding Windows