How to Identify and Measure Your Mohair (Woolpile) Weatherstripping for Aluminium Windows

How to Identify and Measure Your Mohair (Woolpile) Weatherstripping for Aluminium Windows

Let’s talk mohair, nope, not the fabric you wear, but the fuzzy strip that lines your aluminium windows and sliding doors. It might seem insignificant, but if your windows are letting in cold air, buzzing insects, or just making that annoying rattling sound… your mohair weatherstripping might be the silent culprit.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

  • What mohair/woolpile is
  • Why it matters
  • And how to measure it properly so you can get the right replacement (like our popular SKU 1008)

Prefer to see it done visually? We’ve got two handy videos below to guide you from identifying to replacing your mohair.

What Is Mohair (Woolpile) Weatherstripping?

Mohair (also known as woolpile) is the soft, fuzzy strip you’ll find running around the edges of your window sashes or sliding door panels. It helps to:

  • Seal gaps
  • Keep out drafts, dust, and insects
  • Dampen noise and prevent rattling
  • Improve insulation and energy efficiency

It may not look like much, but over time, when it gets worn out or flattened, it can really impact how your windows function and how your home feels.

How to Measure Your Mohair Like a Pro

If your mohair looks squashed, frayed, or is missing altogether, it’s time for a refresh. But before you buy new strips, you need two key measurements:

1. Base Width (Fin Width)

  • This is the flat part at the bottom that slides into the aluminium track.
  • Typical sizes: 4.8mm, 6.5mm, 7.5mm
  • ➡️ Use a ruler or caliper to measure the width of the existing base (or the slot it fits into).

2. Pile Height

  • This is the height of the fuzzy wool from the base to the tip.
  • Typical sizes: 5mm, 6.5mm, 10mm
  • ➡️ Don’t include the backing in this, just the fuzzy bit!

Example: Our popular SKU 1008 is 6.5mm x 6.5mm, a common fit for older aluminium windows.

Not Sure What You’ve Got? Try Our Mohair Sample Card

If you're scratching your head trying to figure out the size, don’t stress. We’ve made it easier with our handy Mohair Sample Card.

It includes multiple mohair sizes so you can:

  • Match the base width and pile height directly against your old strip
  • Test fit in your track before ordering
  • Save yourself the guesswork!

Great for DIYers, landlords, or anyone handling multiple window types.

Replacing Your Mohair

In this hands-on DIY tutorial, we'll show you:

  • How to remove your old, worn-out mohair from the aluminium frame

  • How to clean out the track before reinstallation

  • The best way to trim and install new mohair (SKU 1008 used in demo)

  • How to avoid issues like jamming or loose fit

  • A quick test method to ensure a clean, snug seal once done

Pro Tip: Cut your new mohair cleanly, feed it in slowly, and test window movement before trimming the ends.

Handy DIY Tips

  • Save a sample – If you’re replacing mohair, pull out a clean piece first. It'll help you match it perfectly.

  • Check the track – Make sure there’s no damage or leftover glue in the slot before fitting new mohair.

  • Use sharp scissors – Clean cuts make installation much easier and neater.

  • Don’t guess – 1mm too small or large and you’ll have gaps or resistance. Measure twice, fit once!

Replacing Mohair = Small Fix, Big Comfort

Replacing worn weatherstripping is a small job with big payoffs:

  • Rooms feel less drafty

  • Air con and heating work more efficiently

  • Doors and windows glide smoother

  • And let’s be honest, it just looks cleaner

You can even do it yourself in under an hour. No need for power tools or a tradie visit.

Need a Replacement? Start with SKU 1008

We stock high-quality replacement mohair including SKU 1008 – 6.5mm base x 6.5mm pile, which suits many older aluminium windows common in Australian homes.

👉 Shop SKU 1008
👉 Or grab a Sample Card if you’re not sure!

Still Unsure?

Send us a photo of your track or a sample of your mohair. Our team (yep, real humans!) will help you figure out the right size.

Sometimes the smallest things, like a fuzzy strip, can make the biggest difference.

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