Good morning all,

Bit of a trivial one, but hope someone might have some thoughts.

I install a form of secondary glazing I’ve developed, most commonly in old, single glazed period windows (especially sash and case).

My product doesn’t by itself reduce leaks around ill-fitting sashes though. My solution to that is simply to apply some draught-proofing tape. Most commonly I use the translucent kind which has adhesive across half of it’s width, and which you attach so that it forms a lip across leaky areas.

It can work surprisingly well, last for a surprisingly long time and you don’t generally notice it when it’s installed. It’s amazing how often I find myself installing it on windows which have already been draught-proofed with brush strips.

I don’t charge anything extra for it, because the materials are very cheap, it doesn’t take very long and it’s not going to last for decades (and I’d feel like I was only doing half a job if I didn’t do it frankly).

The only problem is that sometimes it doesn’t last long at all. Sometimes this is because we get a duff batch of tape (which I’m pretty sure does NOT have the promised 3M adhesive). At other times the frames can be damp (not uncommon with single glazed windows) or otherwise in poor condition (flaky paint and uneven surfaces).

My usual MO is to give the frames a quick sanding where I’m going to apply the tape. Then I give it a good clean with alcohol spray. If they’re damp, I also give the frames a blast with a hairdryer (although often the frames are a bit saturated, so this doesn’t seem to work all that well).

I’m just wondering if there’s anything else I can do to increase the chances of the tape lasting longer. Perhaps applying a very quick drying primer? Or perhaps a dod of clear silicone at either end of the tape (where it’s most likely to come away)?

Greatly appreciate any tips. Thanks!