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How to add weatherstrips to sliding windows?

Just wondering how I would go about weatherproofing these sliding windows, I have tried the usual weatherproof self adhesive strips but they are too thick and don’t allow my window to slide. I had to take the original felts out to paint them but now they let a lot through.

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Comments

MitchellMc

It would be worth checking first whether you still have the original felt inserts that came out of the window @jorjmorris. Those proprietary felts are quite different from the self-adhesive weather seals we sell. Most of our weather strips are foam or rubber types that rely on compression and are meant for stationary seals, not something that is constantly sliding back and forth. The adhesive is not strong enough to cope with that movement, and they are likely to detach.

The best replacement would be the original style of felt seal that was designed for your specific window system. They are often a push-in or slide-in type rather than adhesive.

If you no longer have the originals, do you recall what they looked like and how they were held in the frame? Any details about the profile or the channel they sat in would help work out whether there is something comparable available.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

jorjmorris

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/59512#Comment_59512

They were felt strips held in on the window in a track. I am unable to replace them as the window would have to be pulled apart and we aren’t able to do that. Is there somewhere along the window that would be stationary for me to put the weather seals, or is there another way to seal them?

MitchellMc

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/92195#Comment_92195

I understand the difficulty @jorjmorris, but the problem is that removing the original felt strips has left you without the only type of seal that can reliably handle the sliding motion of your windows. Ordinary self-adhesive weatherstrips or foam seals will not cope with the constant sliding and are likely to peel off or fail over time.

If you cannot disassemble the window yourself, the safest and most effective option is to have a glazier reinstate the original seals. Most sliding windows allow the sashes to be lifted out of the bottom track, but it does require care, a second set of hands, and proper safety gear, including gloves, long sleeves and trousers, enclosed shoes, and safety glasses. A professional can ensure the correct felt or brush seal is installed, restoring proper weatherproofing.

For a temporary solution, you could look for very thin, low-friction seals that just fill the gap without being pushed by the moving sash, but these will not provide the same long-term performance as the original seals. Ultimately, reinstating the correct felt would be the most reliable fix.

Mitchell

AlanM52

Hi @jorjmorris,

Try Velcro.

Screenshot 2025-11-18 121303.jpg

Use the felt side and cut to width using a straight edge and sharp knife.

If you have sticky issues do a bead of building adhesive.

Cheers

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