Do-it-yourself weatherstripping

House Doctor | Gary Dymski

July 29, 2004

Q. The company that made our casement windows is out of business, and I want to know if we can replace the weatherstripping. We are not really do-it-yourselfers, so unless this task is truly easy, we might have problems. Also, on two of the windows, there is a condensation buildup between the panes of glass. We have a broken seal, or so I am told. Can we fix this? We really like the windows. Is there another company that sells a vinyl casement window over a metal frame? -- J.A., Great Neck

A. Replacing weatherstripping really is a simple task, so even though you aren't accomplished DIYers, rest easy. Most hardware stores and home centers stock a wide assortment of weatherstripping tapes, foams and sealants. You might not be able to match the original weatherstripping, but you should come close in terms of thickness and width. From the photos you e-mailed me, it appears the original weatherstripping was a plain felt material. Cut off an old piece and bring it with you when you shop for the replacement weatherstripping. You should find several tape-style foams that will fit nicely. These foam rolls come with an adhesive backing and can be cut with scissors or a utility knife. Be sure to clean the edges of the windows before you press on the new weatherstripping. Once you've pressed it into place, make sure the window closes properly and the weatherstripping does its job by limiting air flow.

Some replacement weatherstripping comes with a thin metal strip that must be cut to length with tin snips and then stapled into place. I'd avoid using this type and go for the foam. It will work, plus it's simple to install and relatively inexpensive. Depending on the material, you'll find rolls of weatherstripping - usually 10 feet in length - from between $4 and $7 each.

As for the condensation forming between your panes of glass, that's probably a job for a professional. When your double-pane windows were built, they were pressed tightly together around a rubberlike seal. A clear nontoxic gas, most likely argon, was inserted between the panes to improve the insulation factor. Over time, this seal can break, allowing air to seep in. The insulating gas seeps out, and you are left with messy-looking, foggy glass.

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Since you have just two windows to replace, it might be worthwhile to have new glass installed. Check with a glass company. Measure the glass - thickness, width and height - and call several companies for prices, including installation.

You asked about vinyl casement windows around a metal frame. Most vinyl replacement windows today are made with a metal frame or some type of enhanced or strengthened framing system. Years ago, when vinyl windows first took over the replacement niche, the frames were noted for warping and bending. But today's vinyl windows are often less expensive than wood and feature durable frames and many technological advances.