Ethan Clarke
Plastic window insulation is a common, inexpensive method to reduce drafts and heat loss during the winter months. It is often used in colder climates to cover windows with gaps or poor insulation. While it may not be the most aesthetically pleasing solution, it is a simple DIY project that can help make your home more energy-efficient. However, some people find the process of installing plastic over windows cumbersome and frustrating, especially when dealing with adhesive residues and ensuring a tight seal. In this paragraph, we will explore the topic of properly insulating windows with plastic and discuss its effectiveness, advantages, and potential drawbacks.
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What You'll Learn
Locating air leaks
Visual Inspection
Start by looking for obvious signs of damage, such as cracks, gaps, or worn-out weather stripping around the window frames. Check the window panes for cracks and inspect the locks. Look for visible signs of damage, such as rot or warping, which can be an indication of an air leak.
Hand Test
On a windy day or when the temperature outside is extreme, stand near your windows and run your hand along the edges and corners. Your hand is sensitive to temperature changes, so you will be able to feel any drafts directly. A wet hand will help you feel air leaks more easily.
Rattle Test
Inspect windows by trying to rattle them. If there is movement, it indicates a possible air leak, as the seals are not tight.
Light Test
Turn off all the lights inside your home and look around the window frames for light coming through. If light is coming through, cold air is likely also leaking through.
Candle Test
Light a candle and trace the edges of the window frames. Air coming through will pull the smoke from the candle towards the window.
Incense Test
Light a stick of incense and pass it around the edges of common leak sites. Wherever the smoke wavers or is blown into the room, there is a draft.
Blower Door Test
For a more comprehensive method, consider a blower door test. This involves a technician placing a specialized fan in your front door to blow air into the house, creating a pressure difference that makes it easier to locate leaks. This method can be costly.
Professional Assessment
Hire a qualified technician to conduct an energy assessment to accurately measure air leakage in your home. They can also advise on insulation materials and help with caulking gaps to prevent energy loss.
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Using plastic film kits
Plastic film insulation kits are an inexpensive way to reduce drafts and make your house feel warmer during winter. They are easy to install and can be purchased from home improvement, hardware, and discount stores. The kits come in several sizes, so make sure to buy one that fits the width of your window.
To install the plastic film, first, cut the plastic to fit your window, leaving a few inches of excess film on all sides. Then, use double-sided tape to adhere it to the window frame. Apply one layer of tape to the window frame, then add a second layer of tape next to the first. Wait 10-15 minutes for the tape to become tacky.
Next, peel off the backing on the first layer of tape and adhere the plastic film, starting at the top, then the bottom, and finishing with the left and right sides. Use a hairdryer to shrink-wrap the plastic film and work out any wrinkles.
When winter is over, simply remove the plastic and pull off the tape. The tape should come off easily without damaging the finish.
While plastic film insulation kits can help reduce drafts and condensation, they may not have a significant impact on your energy bills. The plastic film is quite thin and has a low R-value, which measures the thermal resistance of a material. As such, it may not provide much additional insulation to your windows.
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Installing without tape
Installing plastic film insulation on windows is a simple DIY project that can help lower heating bills by reducing drafts and condensation. It is also a more affordable way to insulate multiple windows. Before installing, ensure you have the right-sized kit for your window width, leaving a few inches of excess on either side.
To begin, clean the window frame with a damp cloth and allow it to dry. If there is any old caulk or peeling paint, scrape it off with a knife and clean the area again. Fill a caulking gun with silicone caulking and apply it between the window frame and siding.
Now, cut the plastic film sheet according to your window measurements, leaving an excess of up to 5 inches. Apply adhesive tape to the window frame, leaving a 1-inch space from the border. Press the plastic sheet onto the taped frame from top to bottom, ensuring no gaps.
Instead of tape, you can also use magnetic tape on the plastic vinyl. Cut the strips according to your window dimensions, peel off the adhesive, and align the rubber along the window frame to cover any gaps.
To remove wrinkles from the plastic, use a hairdryer on high heat and run it over the plastic, 3 to 5 inches away, heating the entire window. Repeat this step as needed.
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Preventing damage to trim
Insulating windows with plastic wrap is an inexpensive and effective way to prevent drafts and reduce moisture buildup on windows during the winter months. However, one of the challenges with this method is the potential damage to the trim when removing the plastic and adhesive tape in the spring. Here are some tips to prevent damage to the trim when insulating windows with plastic:
Choose the Right Adhesive
The type of adhesive you use can make a difference in how easily it can be removed later. Some people recommend using a product like "Seal n' Peel" by DAP, which is a clear caulk-like product that can be used to seal around windows. Alternatively, you can use double-sided tape, but be mindful of the type of tape you choose to avoid leaving residue or causing damage to the trim.
Attach Adhesive to the Edge of the Trim
Instead of applying the adhesive strip to the face of the trim, try attaching it to the edge or side of the trim. This way, if there is any residue left after removing the plastic, it will be less noticeable.
Use a Hair Dryer for Removal
When it's time to remove the plastic in the spring, use a hair dryer to heat up the adhesive. This will make it easier to carefully pull up the adhesive without leaving too much residue behind.
Cleaners for Adhesive Residue
In case there is some adhesive residue left on the trim, cleaners like "Goo Gone" or WD40 are effective in removing it. Even cooking oil can be used, although it may not be as effective as the other options.
Consider Alternative Methods
If you are concerned about damaging the trim, consider alternative methods of insulation. You can try using insulated drapes, cellular blinds, or interior storm windows, depending on your budget and preferences.
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Alternative insulation methods
While plastic insulation is a cost-effective and flexible method to insulate your windows, it may not always be the most aesthetically pleasing option and can be time-consuming to install. Here are some alternative methods to insulate your windows:
- Window film and caulking: Applying window film and caulking your windows is a low-cost method to ensure there are no drafts. Window films can block UV rays and trap heat, while caulking can seal any remaining gaps.
- Cellular shades: These shades are hung on the inside of the window, creating air pockets between the window and your home. They block light and trap air, making them an excellent option for increasing energy efficiency.
- Low-emissivity ("low-E") coating: This is a microscopically thin coating applied to windows that is transparent and reflects heat. It is advantageous over plastic coverings as it is invisible, and the window treatment is already applied.
- Insulated drapes: Thick, insulated drapes can make a significant difference in reducing heat loss, especially if you have single-pane windows.
- Interior storm windows: While this option can be costly, it is a good alternative if you have single-pane windows and do not plan to replace them.
- PVC vinyl sheets: PVC sheets are more rigid and less porous than other plastics, making them better at resisting condensation. They provide better moisture resistance and create an airtight barrier when properly secured to the window frame.
- Bubble wrap: Adding a layer of bubble wrap before applying plastic film insulation can further enhance the insulating effect, helping to dampen cold drafts.
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Frequently asked questions
Insulating windows with plastic is an inexpensive way to reduce drafts and make your home warmer in winter. It can also help to reduce condensation and eliminate air leaks.
Use a product like "Goo Gone" or WD40 to remove adhesive residue from the trim. Alternatively, attach the adhesive to the edge of the window trim, rather than the face, to avoid leaving marks on the wood.
Cut the plastic slightly larger than the window opening and place it between the window and the window frame. Use bamboo or a spring-tension curtain rod to hold the plastic in place.
Alternatives to plastic window insulation include buying new double- or triple-pane windows, installing interior storm windows, or using insulated drapes or blinds.
