How to Install V-Channel and Foam Window Weatherstripping

Save on Winter Heating Bills by Replacing Worn Door Weatherstripping

By Mark J. Donovan




If you are experiencing cold drafts in your home this winter, you may want to check your windows and install some V-channel and foam window weatherstripping around them. Older windows are notorious for letting cold drafty air into the home. Use your hand and feel around the window sashes and jambs for cold drafts. If you feel cold drafts, visit your local home improvement center and purchase a roll or two of foam window weatherstripping and some V-channel window weatherstripping.

Both are very inexpensive and come in various lengths and widths. Foam window weatherstripping, as well as V-channel window weatherstripping, have a sticky backing on them that is covered by a protective paper.

Installing Foam Window Weatherstripping in Casement Windows

To install foam window weatherstripping in casement windows start by opening the window and cleaning the bottom window sash and the window stops with warm soap and water to remove any dirt or dust. Then dry them down with a separate towel or rag.

Next, cut the foam window weatherstripping to the necessary length using scissors, peal off the protective paper backing, and then install it in the window stop areas so that when the casement window is cranked closed a tight seal is created.

Next, cut the foam window weatherstripping to the necessary length using scissors, peal off the protective paper backing, and then install it in the window stop areas so that when the casement window is cranked closed a tight seal is created.

Installing Window Weatherstripping in Double Hung Windows

To install foam window weatherstripping in double hung windows start by opening the window and cleaning the top and bottom window sashes and stiles with warm soapy water to remove any dirt or dust. Then dry them down with a separate towel or rag.

Foam Window Weatherstripping

Next, cut the foam window weatherstripping to the necessary length using scissors, peal off the protective paper backing, and then install the foam window weatherstripping in the top and bottom window sash areas, so that when you close the two windows they create a tight seal between the windows and the window frame sashes.

A different type of window weatherstripping is required on the side channels with double hung windows. It is known as V-channel window weatherstripping, and again it is inexpensive and comes in various lengths.

As with the top and bottom window sashes, it is important to first wash the side window jambs thoroughly to remove any dirt and dust on them.

Next, cut two pieces of V-channel window weatherstripping the length of the window jambs.

Peal the protective backing off of the V-channel window weatherstripping and then slide it down between the window sash stiles and the window jamb. Press the V-channel window weatherstripping firmly up against the window jambs.

Secure the V-channel weatherstripping to the jamb by nailing it to the window jambs using small finish nails.

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You can also use the V-channel window weatherstripping on the top and bottom window sashes as an alternative to the foam window weatherstripping if you prefer just using the V-channel window weatherstripping.

So if you want to feel warmer in your home this winter, as well as save a few dollars on your home heating bills, check your windows for drafts and install foam window weatherstripping where necessary.


For help on building a home addition, see HomeAdditionPlus.com’s Home Addition Bid Sheets. Our Home Addition Bid Sheets provide you with the knowledge and information on how to plan a home addition project, and what to look for when hiring contractors. They also include detailed cost breakdown tables and spreadsheets for estimating your own new home addition building costs.

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