Pile weatherstrips
Pile on a thin backing strip, supplied by the metre to fabricators of aluminium windows, sliding doors and screens. This is a sliding seal, maintaining a seal while the leaf continues to move across it. Two parameters govern selection, pile height and backing width; filament materials include nylon, polypropylene, wool and flame-retardant grades.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I measure an old pile weatherstrip to order a replacement?
Two parameters: backing width (across the flat base, with calipers) and pile height (from the underside of the backing to the tips). Backing width must match the groove in the aluminium section, and pile height is chosen for the gap between the sliding leaf and frame so the pile touches and compresses slightly.
What does a fin in a pile weatherstrip do?
The fin is a thin polypropylene film set in the middle of the pile, standing almost as high as the tips. It blocks wind and water better than pile alone, since pile on its own still lets air through. Exterior sliding doors should use a finned type; interior partitions do not need one.
How should I choose the filament material?
Polypropylene is the usual choice for aluminium windows because it does not absorb moisture and resists UV when stabilised. Nylon resists abrasion better on high-cycle sliding leaves. Flame-retardant grades are used where the door specification calls for them, and wool mainly when matching an original fitting.
How does AAMA 701 apply to pile weatherstrips?
AAMA 701 from FGIA is the performance specification for pile weatherstrips sold by length to door and window fabricators. When a fabricator needs compliance documents for a project, ask for the technical data of the specific item, since the category name only indicates the standard scope of the product family.
How is pile weatherstrip replaced on an aluminium sliding door?
Pull the old pile out of its groove from one end of the section, which usually means removing the sash or an end cap to expose the groove end. Clean dust out of the groove, then feed in the new pile without stretching it. Leave a little extra at each end so the pile butts into the end caps and does not open a gap if it shrinks.
Does pile weatherstrip keep out dust and insects?
High-density pile limits coarse dust and insects at sliding sash gaps, but it is not a complete seal against fine dust. Finned pile blocks dust noticeably better. Flattened or clogged pile leaves gaps, so in dusty areas it needs checking and replacing more often.
How should pile weatherstrip be cleaned?
Vacuum it or brush it lightly along its length with a soft brush to remove grit and dust from between the fibres. Do not aim a pressure washer directly at the pile, as the fibres splay and pull out of the backing. Clean the track as well, since grit on the track wears the pile faster as the sash runs over it.
Is pile weatherstrip affected by sun and high temperatures?
Polypropylene pile without UV stabilisation becomes brittle and breaks after prolonged direct sun. On west-facing sliders or under glazed roofs, choose UV-stabilised pile. Long exposure to heat also shrinks the plastic backing, so leave extra at the ends when replacing, as with a new installation.
