How to Install the Rubber on Glass House Windows

Broken seals along a window pane and frame allow heat to escape in the winter and cool air to escape in the summer. Air leaks can cause windows to fog or frost on a regular basis. For older style homes, a rubber seal may sit between the aluminum window frame and cabin top, or upper frame enclosure. Installing a new rubber seal can help prolong a window’s usefulness and save money in window replacement costs.

Needle-nose pliers
Razor blade
Acetone
Butyl rubber seal

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the window and frame from its enclosure. Different style windows use sill latches or pulley systems, so removal methods may vary.
- 2
  Scrape and clean off glue or mastic materials from the aluminum frame and from the top of the window enclosure. Use VC thinner or acetone in hard to clean areas.
- 3
  Pull off the old rubber seal with a pair of needle-nose pliers. Scrape off any remaining rubber and glue materials from the aluminum frame and cabin using a razor blade.
- 4
  Draw a pencil line across the cabin top to mark where the frame fits for when it comes time to reinstall the frame.
- 5
  Lay the butyl rubber seal across the backside of the aluminum frame. The seal should span across the top, sides and bottom of the frame so the two ends form a tight, snug fit at the bottom. Avoid stretching out the rubber seal in the process.
- 6
  Reinstall the window.

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