How To Replace Your Sunroom Windows Weatherstripping

The efficiency of your sunroom windows is bound to change over the years. Sunrooms are particularly vulnerable if your window sashes are leaking air. Of course, a lot of things can fade, wear down and break, significantly effecting the efficiency of your windows. One of the most common problems is that the felt weatherstripping along the bottom edge of a movable window wears down over the years. As a result, even when the window is closed and locked, it does not create an airtight seal. This is obviously very problematic, especially when it is especially hot or cold outside. Homeowners will usually end up adjusting the thermostat to solve the problem. However, it is much cheaper if you just replace the weatherstripping as soon as you notice it wearing down. This article explains the best way to remove old weatherstripping and how to apply a new product.

Removing Your Old Weatherstripping

Removing your old weatherstripping could be a tiring job that involves a lot of scraping and elbow grease. However, if your weatherstripping is so deteriorated that it is falling off the window, it should be easy to peel away. You can try using a combination of a metal putty knife and a razor blade to scrape off your more stubborn weatherstripping. Of course, you want to be careful to not actually scrape or cut the finish off of your window frame. Once the majority of your weatherstripping is removed, you will probably need to further clean off the leftover adhesive residue with some liquid cleaner. Citrus-based degreasers work very well, but try using whatever you have around the house before investing in something that you don't need.

Applying the New Weatherstripping

Once your old weatherstripping is off of your windows, you can start to apply your new product. The cheapest and easiest weatherstripping to use is adhesive tape. It comes in large rolls that are easy to apply. The most important thing to remember is to thoroughly push down the weatherstripping and to not cut it at the corners. Instead, push it typed into the corner and bend it. You don't want to have any gaps in the stripping that air can't seep through. While you are working on your windows, you should also clean the inside of the casing.

At first, your windows might be a little harder to close because of the thick, new weatherstripping. So, make sure you engage the lock or latch to ensure that you don't have any air leaking in. As you can see, this is a simple job, but it could make your home a little more energy efficient and easier to maintain the proper temperature throughout the year.


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