My only concern with leaving the strip empty (I like the window screen
tooling idea) was that it could allow the rubber edges of the seal to
collapse inward slightly, exacerbating the water issue.  If the seal was
designed to host trim, then the wise thing to do is replace it with
something the same size, like the screen plastic rod.  You can purchase a
small roller that is grooved to accept the plastic rod..makes the job much
easier.  Good idea!