Installing Spring-metal and Other Weatherstripping Types
What You'll Need Here are the tools you'll want to have on hand to apply spring-metal weatherstripping:
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Spring-metal strips (V-shape or single) are available in bronze, copper, stainless-steel, and aluminum finishes. Most manufacturers package spring-metal weatherstripping in rolls, and they include the brads necessary for installation. Although this kind of weatherstripping seems like a simple installation, it does require patience.
Spring-metal weatherstripping fits into the tracks around the windows. Each strip should be about 2 inches longer than the sash so the end of the strip is exposed when the windows are closed. Here's how to install spring-metal weatherstripping:
Step 1: Position vertical strips so flared flange faces outside. Center strip should be mounted to upper sash with flare aimed down, while other horizontal strips are mounted to top of upper sash and bottom of lower sash with flared flange facing out. Using snips, cut spring-metal weatherstripping to size. Be sure to allow for window pulley mechanisms.
Step 2: Attach strips to window frame. Position strip properly and note any hinges, locks, or other hardware that might interfere. Trim away metal where needed. Then trim ends of strip at an angle where vertical and horizontal strips meet. Tap in one nail at top and one nail at bottom of strip. Do not put in more nails and do not drive top and bottom nails all the way in. Since some vertical strips do not come with nail holes, you may have to make pilot holes with an ice pick or awl.
Step 3: Check
to make sure strips are straight and properly positioned. Then drive
nail in center of strip -- but, again, only partway. Add more nails
between starter nails. To avoid damaging strip, never drive any of the
nails all the way in with hammer. Instead, drive nails flush with nail
set.
 ©2006 Publications International, Ltd. Flare the edge of a spring-metal strip with a screwdriver to render a snug fit. |
Step 4: Flare out edge of strip with screwdriver to render snug fit.
Self-Sticking Spring Metal
Self-sticking
spring metal has a peel-and-stick backing. These are like standard
spring-metal strips, but they are far easier to install. This type of
weatherstripping works best on wood-framed windows. Here's how to
install this self-sticking spring metal weatherstripping:
What You'll Need Here are the tools you'll want to have to apply self-sticking spring metal weatherstripping:
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Step 1:
Measure and cut strips to fit window, then clean surface where strips are to be placed.
Step 2: Put strips in place without removing backing paper, and mark spots for trimming (for example, indicate hardware points and where vertical and horizontal strips meet).
Step 3: Peel off backing at one end, and press strip in place, peeling and pressing as you work toward other end.
Felt Weatherstripping
What You'll Need Here are the tools you'll want to have on hand to apply felt weatherstripping:
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Felt strips are somewhat unsightly for sealing gaps on wooden-frame windows. There are places where felt can be used to good advantage, however. Attach felt strips to the bottom of the lower sash, the top of the upper sash, and to the interior side of the upper sash. The strips will then function as horizontal gaskets. Here's how to install felt weatherstripping:
Step 1: Measure and cut felt to fit window. Keep in mind that felt strips can go around corners. Push material snugly against gap.
Step 2: Nail ends of each strip first, but do not drive nails flush; leave room to pry them out. Start at one end and drive a tack every 2 to 3 inches, pulling felt tight as you go. If you find slack when you reach other end, remove nail, pull to tighten, and trim off any excess.
Note: If possible, do this job on a warm day. The adhesive forms a better bond if applied when the temperature is at least 60 degrees Farenheit.
Pressure-Sensitive Felt
Follow the same steps you would to attach pressure-sensitive foam weatherstripping.
