- The plexi idea is interesting, but I’ve had decent luck with the shrink-wrap window kits.
- They’re definitely not as sturdy, but for me, the main draft issue was around the sash, not the glass.
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“Rope caulk is easy, but I found it left a residue on my painted sashes after a couple seasons—maybe I just got unlucky.”
- Same here—sticky mess, and it pulled off some paint.
- I’m hesitant about cutting plexiglass just because I don’t really have the tools or workspace, but maybe I’m overthinking it?
- Anyone tried using weatherstripping instead of panels for air leaks? I keep seeing mixed reviews.
- I’ve had the same issue with rope caulk—
Not sure it’s worth the cleanup for a rental.“sticky mess, and it pulled off some paint.”
- Shrink-wrap kits helped a bit, but they look kinda cheap up close.
- Has anyone tried the felt-style weatherstripping? I’m skeptical about how long it actually stays put, especially in older wood windows. Wondering if it’s less hassle than all this plastic and caulk...
Felt weatherstripping’s actually not a bad option for old wood windows, at least in my experience. I tried it last winter after getting tired of the plastic looking crinkly and the rope caulk leaving residue. Here’s what worked for me:
1. Clean the surface really well—old paint or dust will make the adhesive fail fast. I wiped everything with a damp rag and let it dry.
2. Measure each sash and cut the felt a little long, then press it in place while the window’s open.
3. Close the window gently to help the felt “set” in the gap.
On my 1920s windows, the felt held up through the season, but I did have to re-press a couple spots. It’s not as airtight as foam tape, but it’s way less hassle to remove in spring—just pulls right off, no sticky mess. If you’re dealing with really drafty gaps, you might need to double up or combine with another method, but for light drafts and rentals, it’s a solid compromise.
I wouldn’t say it’s perfect, but it beats scraping caulk off trim...