Here are some easy and effective methods for insulating windows in winter
Sealing your drafty windows is a cost-effective way to prevent the cold burst of air from coming through the gaps and openings. Moreover, it helps keep the heat in during winters thereby reducing your heating bills. Insulated windows also reduce condensation by regulating the surface temperature of the windows. Here is how you can insulate your windows in winter.
Preparing Your Windows
- It is important to prepare your windows before you start insulating them. This can be done by thoroughly cleaning your windows from the inside and outside. Remove any dirt and grime by using a damp cloth.
Make sure the window frame and sill are clean. Use a soapy sponge to give the glass surface a good clean. Once you are done cleaning the windows, take a clean cloth or paper towel to dry the windows.
Film Insulation
- Window film keeps the temperature of your house steady by acting as a barrier between the cold air outside and the interior of the house. Window film is a large sheet of shrink-wrap plastic that has double-sided adhesive tape.
Measure and cut the sheet according to the dimensions of your window frame. Use double-sided adhesive to stick the sheet to the outside of the window. Then use the heat from a hairdryer to shrink the sheet. This will ensure proper sealing.
Caulking
- Another popular and cost-effective way for preventing winter drafts is a high-performance sealant like caulking. Start by removing the old and loosened caulking around the window frame. Remove the caulking carefully with a putty knife. You can use a caulk gun to fill the gaps and cracks.
Another option is to insert sealant strips along with the interior wall frame. This provides efficient insulation to prevent cold air from making its way inside through the interior sill and the wall.
Expanding Foam Spray
- A comparatively quick way of insulating your window is the use of expanding foam spray. Apply a small drop of the insulation foam to the corner of the window sill. This will give you an idea about how it is going to expand once applied. Once you know how much the foam is going to expand, apply a small bead of foam around your frame.
This will create an air seal around the frame. Apply the expanding foam spray using a foam shooter gun. Opt for foam rubber weather sealing strips if you do not want to use a foam spray. These strips will stick firmly around the window.
Thermal Treatments
Thermal curtains, blinds, and heavy drapes are another option to keep out the chilly drafts in winter. They will trap more air within the folds of fabric and reduce radiant heat loss.
Heavy curtains and drapes may not be a cost-effective option for sealing windows but they sure do look much more attractive.
The Draft Stopper
- The use of a draft stopper or snake is a stress-free and easy way to insulate your windows in winter. A draft stopper is a stuffed foam and fabric tube that is placed in a horizontal direction along the base of the window. Draft stoppers are good for preventing drafts of air coming from underneath your windows.
However, if the cold air is coming from the side or top of the window, draft stoppers are of no use. They can be bought from any store at an affordable price. They can also be created at home using a long stock and stuffing it with sand, beans, etc.
If you are looking for high-quality affordable windows installed by top-tier window installers your best bet is to go with a local window company such as Simple Home Improvements. We are a professional team that provides window and door installation services in Totowa, NJ. Our team is well equipped to handle all your issues.