Sofia Martinez
Plastic window insulation is an easy, effective, and inexpensive way to reduce drafts and heat loss in your home. It involves applying a plastic film to your window using double-sided tape and then using a hair dryer to shrink-wrap the film to fit snugly. This creates an airtight seal and traps a layer of still air between your window and the film, helping to keep your house warmer in winter and cooler in summer. While it may not have a significant impact on energy bills, it is still a useful solution for renters or those on a tight budget who want to improve their window insulation without replacing their windows.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | Inexpensive, as little as a dollar per window |
| Installation | Easy to install, can be done as a DIY project |
| Benefits | Reduces drafts, improves insulation, reduces heating bills, increases comfort, better visibility due to transparent plastic, virtually unnoticeable |
| Effectiveness | May not have a huge impact on energy bills, may not solve underlying problems causing heat loss or gain |
| Maintenance | Can be cleaned with a dry cloth or feather duster, can be reused if carefully removed |
| Tools | Double-sided tape, hair dryer, bubble wrap, plastic brush, scissors, packing tape |
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What You'll Learn
Locating air leaks
The Temperature Test
If you enter a room and notice the air is cooler or warmer than the rest of the house, there are likely air leaks around the windows in that room.
The Rattle Test
Give your windows a little shake. If they rattle, it means the frames are not secure, and air can leak out.
The Visual Test
If you can see the outside from around the window, not just through it, you have gaps that are causing air leaks. Similarly, if you can see daylight or rays of light around a window frame, then the window leaks.
The Incense Test
Light an incense stick and carefully pass it around the edges of the window. Wherever the smoke wavers or is sucked out of or blown into the room, there's an air leak.
The Candle Test
Simply light a candle and trace the edges of the window frames with the lit candle. Air coming through the window frame will pull the smoke from the candle in the area of the window seal leak.
The Wet Hand Test
Wet hands will help you feel air leaks in windows easier.
The Basic Building Pressurization Test
Turn off all combustion appliances such as gas-burning furnaces and water heaters on a cool, windy day. Then, turn on all exhaust fans that blow air outside, such as your clothes dryer, bathroom fans, or stove vents. Alternatively, you can use a large window fan to suck the air out of the room.
The Light Test
During the day, turn off all the lights inside your home and look around the window frames for light coming through. If light is coming through the window frames, cold air is leaking through the windows as well.
Once you've located the air leaks, you can consider weatherizing your windows with plastic film insulation. This will help reduce drafts, make your house feel warmer during the winter months, and lower your heating bills.
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Benefits of plastic window insulation
Plastic window insulation is an easy, effective, and inexpensive way to winterize your windows. It is a common tactic used to reduce drafts and energy waste. Here are some benefits of plastic window insulation:
Reduce drafts and energy waste
Plastic window insulation helps to reduce drafts by sealing air gaps around the windows. Leaks around windows can lead to uncomfortable drafts and energy losses. By adding an extra layer of plastic, you can create another layer of insulating air to reduce heat loss through the window. This can help to lower your heating bills, especially during the winter months.
Easy to install
Plastic window insulation kits are easy to install and can be purchased online or at local hardware stores. The kits usually come with window-sized pieces of plastic film and double-sided tape. You can cut the plastic to fit your window, apply the tape to the frame, and then affix the film to the tape. Using a hair dryer, you can then shrink-wrap the plastic film to fit snugly over the window.
Increased comfort
Plastic window insulation can help to maintain a cozy temperature in your home during cold winter nights. By reducing drafts and heat loss, you can more easily keep your home warm and comfortable, without having to constantly run your heating system.
Longer-lasting appliances
By reducing the need for frequent use of your heating system, plastic window insulation can also help to extend the lifespan of your appliances. Overworked appliances tend to burn out more quickly, so by using your heating system less frequently, you can limit wear and tear and get an extra season or two of reliable use.
Reduce moisture buildup
In addition to reducing drafts and energy losses, plastic window film can also help to reduce moisture buildup on windows due to condensation. This can be especially beneficial in cold climates where condensation on windows is a common issue.
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Installation instructions
Before starting, it is important to determine whether your windows have any air leaks. You can do this by lighting an incense stick and holding it next to the seams of your window. If the smoke blows in a particular direction, it is likely that there is a leak.
If you are using a window insulation kit, you will first need to clean the window frame with a damp cloth or rubbing alcohol. Next, apply double-sided tape to the window frame, leaving a small overlap between each piece of tape. If you are using bubble wrap, apply a second layer of tape and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
If you are using plastic film, unfold the first 12 inches (30.5 cm) of film along the entire width of the window. The film may be tricky to separate due to static, so moisten your thumbs and fingers and gently rub the edge of the film until it separates. Present the window insulation film to the top of the frame as you unfold it, ensuring that the clean inside surfaces face the window.
Now, work your way down the window, attaching the film. Unroll about six inches of film at a time, peeling off the tape backing, and sticking the film to the tape. Keep the sides slightly taut and even, and push the film in slightly to ensure it sticks to the full width of the tape.
Finally, use a hair dryer to tighten the film and remove any wrinkles.
When winter is over, simply take down the plastic and remove the tape from the trim. The tape should come off easily without damaging the finish.
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Removing plastic window insulation
Plastic window insulation is a great way to prevent drafts and lower heating bills. When the warmer months arrive, however, you'll want to remove the plastic covering to open your windows and let the fresh air in.
To remove plastic window insulation, you will need a hair dryer, adhesive remover, a soft brush, and mild dish soap. You can also use a plastic putty knife to help scrape away the adhesive.
First, grab your hair dryer and set it to its lowest heat setting. Start at one corner of the window and heat the edge of the plastic where the adhesive strip attaches to the window frame. Heat a small 3- to 4-inch section, and slowly peel the plastic from the window as the adhesive melts.
Next, use a plastic putty knife to scrape away the softened adhesive. Be sure to do this before the adhesive has a chance to cool and harden again. Continue heating and scraping until all the adhesive has been removed.
If there is any remaining residue, reheat the area with your hair dryer and blast it with a shot of hot air. Wash the area with warm, soapy water and use a soft brush to scrub away any remaining traces of adhesive.
Finally, apply adhesive remover to a clean rag and wipe down the window frame to remove any remaining residue. Rinse the frame with clean water and enjoy your fresh, open window!
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Alternative insulation methods
Plastic film is a popular, inexpensive, and effective method for insulating windows. However, there are several alternative methods for insulating windows, which can be more cost-effective and provide better insulation.
Window Film
Window film, or energy film, is a specially formulated plastic film that blocks harmful UV rays and enhances the insulation capacity of window surfaces. It is inexpensive, easy to install, and does not affect the level of natural light entering the room.
Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is a general term used to describe a variety of window insulation products, including door sweeps, tension seals, and foam. It is a go-to solution for insulating windows as it is effective at reducing energy costs.
Curtains
Thermal curtains are made from multiple layers of foam and fabric, creating an effective barrier that restricts airflow and blocks out light. They are designed to keep cold air out and heat in, reducing energy costs. Blackout curtains are a more affordable option, trapping heat in the winter and preventing the sun's heat from penetrating in the summer.
Secondary Glazing
Secondary glazing is a long-term solution that creates a buffer zone between the window and the interior of the home, preventing the circulation of cold air. It is installed by attaching a pane of glass with a discreet frame to the inside of the window, allowing the window to still be opened and closed.
Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap is a type of plastic film with air-filled pockets. It is applied to the window using double-sided tape, adding an extra layer of insulation.
Caulk
Caulk is an inexpensive and easy-to-apply product used to insulate small cracks in window sashes or around windows. It needs to be reapplied every year or two due to changes in temperature causing expansion and contraction.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic film for windows can reduce drafts from leaky windows, adding a layer of still air between the window glazing and your living area, which improves insulation. It is also inexpensive, easy to install, and can save you money on heating costs.
First, locate any air leaks by lighting an incense stick and holding it next to the seams of your window. If the smoke wafts in a particular direction, you likely have a leak. Clean the window frame and ensure that any humidifiers are turned off. Apply double-sided tape to the frame and, if using bubble wrap, add a second layer of tape. Unfold the plastic film and adhere it to the tape, ensuring there is at least one inch of excess film on all sides.
Yes, if you are careful when removing the plastic film, you can reuse it for several years. However, the tape will need to be replaced.
