Installing weather tape on a window is a straightforward process that helps seal drafts and improve energy efficiency. The first steps involve preparing the window area to ensure the weather stripping adheres correctly.
Before you apply weather tape, proper preparation of the window frame is crucial for the tape to stick well and create an effective seal.
- Identify Gaps: First, walk around your windows and locate the specific gaps or cracks around the sash and frame where air leaks are occurring.
- Inspect and Repair: As highlighted in the reference, make sure your sills and casings are in good condition. If you find any damage, rot, or loose parts, repair them if necessary to provide a solid, smooth surface for the weather stripping.
- Clean the Surface: Thoroughly clean the areas where the weather tape will be applied. Dust, dirt, grease, and old paint can prevent the adhesive from bonding. Use a suitable cleaner and allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding.
- Measure: Measure the lengths of the sections of the window frame or sash where you need to apply the tape.
Applying the Weather Tape
Weather tape is a common type of weather stripping that often comes with an adhesive backing. Weather stripping comes in several styles, but the adhesive tape style is relatively easy for DIY installation.
Here's a general process for applying adhesive weather tape:
- Cut the Tape: Cut a piece of weather tape to the measured length for the first section you are sealing. It's often better to cut pieces to fit each specific section rather than trying to apply one long continuous strip.
- Peel the Backing: Carefully peel off a few inches of the protective backing paper from one end of the tape to expose the adhesive.
- Position and Stick: Align the tape with the gap you intend to cover. Press the exposed adhesive end firmly onto the clean, dry surface of the window frame or sash.
- Apply Progressively: As you move along the gap, continue peeling the backing paper a few inches at a time and pressing the tape firmly into place. Ensure the tape lies flat and covers the gap effectively without stretching it, which can cause it to pull away later.
- Work Around Corners: For corners, you can either cut the tape precisely at the corner or carefully bend flexible tape around it, ensuring there are no gaps. Trim excess tape cleanly.
- Secure and Test: Once the tape is applied along the entire gap, go back and press firmly along the entire length to ensure good adhesion. Slowly open and close the window to check that the tape creates a seal and does not interfere with the window's operation.
Tips for a Good Seal
- Apply weather tape when temperatures are moderate, ideally above 50°F (10°C), as extreme temperatures can affect the adhesive's effectiveness.
- Take your time and press firmly during application to maximize contact between the adhesive and the surface.
- Replace weather tape when it becomes worn, cracked, or loses its ability to compress and seal gaps.
Properly installed weather tape can significantly reduce drafts, making your home more comfortable and helping to lower heating and cooling costs.
