Window Plastic Installation: Profitable Business?

Window cleaners are paid varying amounts depending on the type of work they do and where they are based. In the United States, the average salary for a window cleaner is $20.09 per hour, but this can range from $18 to $26 per hour for high-rise window cleaning. In Chicago, Illinois, the average salary is higher at $21.38 per hour, and the average base salary for high-rise window cleaners is $39,796 per year. However, some sources estimate the average high-rise window cleaner salary in Illinois to be $36,499 per year.

Window plastic can reduce energy bills

Window plastic is a common tactic used to reduce drafts and energy waste. The plastic sheeting in window insulation kits is usually very thin, and while they are marketed as saving 30-50% on energy bills, most homeowners won't see such a dramatic reduction.

The R-value of a standard double-pane window is 2. An insulated wall has an R-value between 12 and 19. A single layer of quality polyethylene film has an R-value of approximately 0.85, but the plastic sheeting in window insulation kits is usually much thinner than this.

Window plastic can be a short-term solution, but it is not a long-term fix. It can also end up costing you more money, as your energy bills may increase, and you will also have to spend money on the window plastic itself.

Window plastic can reduce drafts

Window plastic is a band-aid solution that can end up costing you more money in the long run. Not only will your energy bills increase, but you'll also spend more money on window plastic. It can cost up to $20 per package, which can add up quickly.

While window plastic can provide a temporary solution to reduce drafts, it's not a long-term fix. If you're looking for a more permanent solution, consider replacing your windows with energy-efficient ones.

Window plastic is a band-aid solution

The plastic sheeting in window insulation kits is usually very thin and won't make a dramatic reduction in your energy bills. EnergyStar.gov rates plastic over windows only 2 out of 5 stars for saving energy and money. In comparison, attic air sealing gets 4 out of 5 stars.

Window plastic can also end up costing you more money in the long run. Not only will your energy bills increase, but you'll also spend more money on window shrink, which can cost up to $20 per package. That might seem cheap, but it can add up quickly.

If your windows aren't energy-efficient, the only way to truly fix the problem is to replace them.

Window plastic is not a long-term fix

Window plastic only prevents 55% of drafts from entering your home, which will lower your energy bills but not by a significant amount. The sheeting that comes in plastic window insulation kits is usually much thinner than the standard rolled-up batts of fibreglass insulation used in attics, and has a disappointing R-value of around 0.85. This means that while it may provide some insulation, it is not an effective long-term solution and could end up costing you more money in the long run.

EnergyStar.gov rates plastic over windows only 2 out of 5 stars for saving energy and money, which is a poor rating compared to other forms of insulation such as attic air sealing, which receives 4 out of 5 stars.

If you are experiencing drafts and high energy bills, it is likely that there is a bigger underlying problem in your house that needs to be addressed. Window plastic may provide a temporary solution, but it is important to identify and fix the root cause of the issue to ensure long-term comfort and energy efficiency.

Window plastic can be expensive

Window plastic film only stops around 55% of drafts, which is not a passing grade. This means that while your energy bills may be lower, the plastic is not a very effective solution and can be improved upon. The R-value of a standard double-pane window is approximately 2, while a single layer of quality polyethylene film has an R-value of around 0.85. The plastic sheeting in window insulation kits is usually much thinner, resulting in an even lower R-value.

The true underlying problem in homes is often not fixed by using plastic over windows as insulation. If your windows are not energy-efficient, the only way to truly solve the issue is to replace them. While window plastic can provide some temporary relief, it is not a long-term solution and can end up costing you more money in the long run. Not only will your energy bills increase due to the ineffectiveness of the plastic, but you will also spend more money on window shrink wrap over time.

Overall, while window plastic may seem like a cost-effective solution, it can actually be quite expensive. The initial cost of the plastic may be low, but the lack of effectiveness and the need for constant replacement can add up quickly. It is important to consider other options, such as attic air sealing or replacing your windows, to truly solve any underlying issues and save money in the long run.

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