Home Garden

How to Install Sliding Glass Window Insulation

Sliding windows move from side to side just like sliding glass doors. One panel of the window remains stationary, while the other window panel opens and closes by sliding along a track. Just as with other windows in the home, sliding glass windows need to be insulated to stop cold air from getting into your home. Proper insulation consists of weatherstripping installed along the track where the window edge closes. Cutting and installing the compression weatherstripping insulation requires little time but saves a lot in home heating costs.

Things You'll Need

  • Glass cleaner
  • Cloth
  • Tape measure
  • Self-adhesive foam or vinyl weatherstripping
  • Scissors
  • Utility knife (optional)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Unlock the sliding glass window and slide the movable panel as far to the opposite side as possible.

    • 2

      Apply 1 to 2 teaspoons of a glass cleaner to a clean cloth and wipe the entire side of the track where the panel locks into place. Turn the cloth to a clean area and repeat the process until no more dirt or grime comes off on the cloth.

    • 3

      Wait one to two minutes to allow the window frame to dry completely.

    • 4

      Measure the side of the window frame from top to bottom, placing the tape measure only in the location where the widow edge hits when it closes.

    • 5

      Cut a piece of self-adhesive foam or vinyl weatherstripping to the same length, using a pair of scissors.

    • 6

      Turn the weatherstripping over and peel off the protective backing from the adhesive side.

    • 7

      Place the top of the weatherstripping at the upper side of the window, with the adhesive facing the frame. Press the strip into place along the entire side of the window until reaching the bottom.

    • 8

      Examine the bottom of the strip to ensure that it sits entirely inside the side track. If needed, trim the bottom of the strip with a utility knife to allow the window to close completely.

    • 9

      Close the window by sliding the panel back into place. Lock the window to ensure that the weatherstripping does not interfere with the movement of the window panel.