5 Tips on How to Insulate Windows for Winter

If you are experiencing a chilly draft in areas throughout your house, it’s very likely that you have older windows that are in need of replacement. Outdated or poorly installed windows are the most common reason a home feels chilly and drafty during the winter months. If you can’t replace your windows right now, or you want to try to improve the issue right away, here are some quick-fix solutions to help insulate windows from the cold!

1. Re-seal drafty windows with caulk

Applying new caulk around the glass panes is a popular go-to for improving draft problems. This can be especially helpful if any of the existing seals have cracks, or if you can feel cold air when you’re near the window itself. Start by choosing a silicone caulk that matches your window or your trim. Then scrape off the old caulk, cleaning off any of the debris once you’re finished. Fill the gaps between your window panes and the window frame and let the caulk set for 24 hours.

2. Add weatherstripping to windows

Adding weatherstripping to windows helps close any small gaps that may cause drafts. Start by measuring the outermost seam of your window frames, this is the seam between the window and your wall. Then, cut four pieces of weatherstripping to size—one for each side of the window. Remove the adhesive backing from the weatherstripping, and press into the window seam to seal gaps. It’s as easy as that!

3. Apply clear insulation film

Window insulation film is a popular (and very inexpensive) option that basically acts as a storm window, which can be applied with adhesive or magnetic tape. To prepare for installation, wipe down and measure your window sill, trim, and frame. You’ll need tape dimensions for the size of your window -1 inch, and film dimensions for the size of your window and frame +10 inches.

Here’s how to apply it to your windows:

• Cut and measure the adhesive or magnetic tape that comes with the window insulation film kit. Apply adhesive tape to your whole window, leaving a 1-inch space from your window from the window frame edge.
• Cut your plastic film and add 10 inches to the height and width of your window, so when applied, the film goes beyond window glass—approximately 5-inches on each side.
• Press the plastic film firmly to your pre-taped window frame starting at the top and working down to the bottom of the window without leaving any gaps.
• Grab your hairdryer, select high heat, then blow-dry the plastic to smooth out wrinkles in the insulation film.

4. Cover window sills with draft snakes

Draft snakes (also called draft dodgers) have been around for a long time, and for good reason. A homemade or store-bought draft snake is a long, skinny fabric tube that is filled with rice or stuffing material. You just place them at the bottom of a door or window sill to block cold air from coming in. Draft snakes are very affordable and easy to make, especially if you reuse fabric (such as denim, corduroy, or an old blanket) that you already have on hand.

5. Hang insulating thermal curtains

One last way to block cold air from entering your home is to use insulating thermal curtains. Thermal curtains are engineered with two pieces of heavy fabric that have a layer of foam in-between. If you’re unable to find thermal curtains, any curtain that is made with a heavier, thick weave fabric can still help your house feel more comfortable, cozy, and warm.

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We hope these affordable and easy tips to insulate your windows are helpful for you. For more advice, check out Money-Saving Tips on How To Winterize & Insulate Your Sliding Glass Door to help insulate your patio doors!

If you decide you’re ready to update your home with new efficient windows, reach out to Renewal by Andersen’s window experts to get a free quote for your project!