Do you wish you could keep out that annoying, uncomfortable draft that sweeps into your home through your windows every winter? Well, you can, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to do it. Of course, the long-term solution that would have the biggest impact on the overall energy efficiency and comfort of your home would be to remove old, drafty windows and replace them with new ones, such as highly energy efficient double pane windows, but we know that can be pricey. If you can’t afford to upgrade right now, or if you’d rather preserve your home’s original features, take advantage of these low-cost tricks instead.
Low-Cost Ways to Insulate Your Windows
#1. Curtains & Shades
Swap your light, summery curtains with heavier, insulating drapes for the winter. Thick drapes will block drafts and help keep your home more comfortable. Replace cotton or linen curtains with velvet or thick linen drapes. If you really want to go all out, look into buying insulated drapes particularly designed to seal in heat during the colder months. Some shades, such as honeycomb (cellular) shades, are also designed to keep out drafts and keep in heat. Better yet, layer windows with drapes and shades!
#2. Weather Stripping & Caulking
Fill in any gaps and holes around your windows to stop air leaks both on the inside and outside of your house. You can use caulk to do this. Then, use weather stripping inside around window sashes. When you visit your home improvement store, you’ll find several different types of weather stripping for windows, likely including v strip (tension seal), felt, tubular gasket, and adhesive-backed foam tape. Ask someone for help if you don't know which type would be best.
Weather stripping can be very effective. It can save you money on energy bills and keep your home warmer during the cold winter. If you only implement one of the four insulating tricks on this list, we encourage you to choose this one.
#3. Window Film
Apply a layer of insulating window film directly to your windows. This will add an extra layer of protection between you and the elements outside. It will help decrease heat transfer, keeping more heat inside your home and the cold out.
#4. Window Snakes
Snakes have been around for a long time for good reason! They're easy to use and do their jobs effectively. Simply run to the store, pick out a snake with a pattern or color you like, and place it in your windowsill.
Window Services in Ankeny, Huxley, and Ames
Would you like to replace your old windows this spring or summer? If you live in or near Polk County or Story County, contact Hedrick Construction! We can replace windows and/or install new windows for commercial businesses and residential properties. We also offer roofing and insulation services. Contact us for a free estimate on your next home improvement project! Now is a great time to jump in before spring hits and the waiting list gets long. Feel free to download our free eBook as well—just click on the button below!
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