Windows are supposed to be airtight, but there are times when you can’t help but feel cold air seeping in. Though most of us don’t have thousands to spend on upgrading our windows to energy-efficient models, it doesn’t mean we have to suffer.
Thankfully, there are some budget-friendly items perfect for insulating your windows and keeping the winter chill out.
Curtains
The heavier the curtains are, the less air that is going to get through. Think of it this way: A curtain is kind of like putting a sweater on your window during the colder months. Consider buying a set of heavy curtains for winter and a lightweight variety for spring and summer. Curtains are an ideal way to keep the room stylish and warm at the same time.
If you have a glass door, prevent unwanted airflow by hanging a floor-length curtain that you can pull shut at night. Just like windows, glass doors are notorious for letting in cold air. A thick curtain will form a nice protective layer.
Draft snakes
A draft snake is a stuffed fabric tube you place on the window sill or underneath a door to prevent air from escaping. If you like to sew, this is actually a very easy piece to create for less than a few dollars. One downfall with a snake is it will only cover the window’s sill, not the entire window.
Weather stripping and caulk
Buy a tube of caulk at your local home improvement store and caulk the casing on the inside and outside of the window. By doing this, you’ll plug air leaks that may be allowing in the cold draft. After you have caulked, apply weather stripping to the windows. Stripping kits cost about $5 per window.
Window insulation film
A window insulation film kit includes a plastic shrink film that is applied to the interior window frame with double-sided tape. When the film is applied, you heat it with a hair dryer to make sure it doesn’t fall off. Once the film is in place, the shrink wrap prevents any air from getting through the window panels. These film kits are found at home improvement stores and usually cost less than $20.
When you insulate your windows, just beware of the condensation that can accumulate between the curtains or film. If enough builds up, it can cause mold.
If you want to keep your house warm this winter, consider some of these low-cost methods. You just might find you save money on your energy bill, too.
Post Author: andyc.
