Your windows are your first line of defense against the winter cold or summer heat. Air leaks, gaps, or cracks in your windows let outside weather sneak into your home, and can raise your energy bill.
This article will give you some tips on how to keep drafts at bay, and your monthly energy costs low, by using one or more of these inexpensive tools to weatherproof windows.
Foam Tape
Foam tape is usually used to seal windows that slide or swing. It works just as the name would suggest, sticking to the edges or bottoms of windows to prevent air leakage when windows are closed.
At less than $3, not only is foam tape a fairly cheap weatherization solution, it’s easy to install.
Installation:
- First, clean and dry the area where the tape will be applied. If the area is dirty, wet, and/or cold (less than 40 degrees fahrenheit), the tape won’t stick properly.
- Cut the amount of foam tape needed based on the length of window sides/bottom.
- Remove the adhesive backing, then press the tape into place to cover the area in need of sealing.
Shrink and Seal Window Kit
If you have scissors, a blow dryer, and $4, you can easily weatherproof windows with a Shrink and Seal Window kit. This kit will seal the whole window from the inside and increase the R-value, or insulating power, of the window by as much as 90%.
Installation:
- As always, clean and dry the area before applying any sealing. You should also clean the insides of windows because you won’t be able to clean that area again until you remove the shrink film.
- Cut the amount of shrink film needed. Cut enough film to cover the entire window (including some of the frame area).
- Remove the backing from one side of the two-sided tape and stick it to the top, bottom, and sides of the window. After installing the tape, remove the adhesive backing from the other side.
- Apply the shrink film around the window, gently stretching it as you work your way from one corner of the window to the other.
- With the blow dryer on the highest setting, slowly move the dryer across the film to tighten it over the window. Don’t place the dryer too close to the window while doing this, otherwise you’ll melt the shrink film.
- Trim any film that’s left over.
V Seal Weatherstrip
V Seal Weatherstrip, which is much like tape, is another $4 tool that allows a hassle-free installation and removal.
Installation:
- Clean, measure, then cut as always. Clean the area. Measure how much V Seal strip is needed, then cut away.
- Bend the strip down the marked center line to create a “V” shape.
- To seal, remove the backing and press the V strip into the corner of the window.
Rope Caulk
Rope caulk is an easy method of weatherstripping that targets the crack, gap, hole, or opening that allows air to seep through. Basically it’s like sticking silly putty in the exposed area to seal it off.
However, unlike silly putty, rope caulk provides a better stick, can weatherproof windows in any weather condition, and is a lot more pleasing aesthetically (unlike your lime green putty). It’s also easy to apply and easy to remove, so rope caulk is a great solution for apartments.
Installation:
- Clean, clean, clean the area where caulk will be used.
- Peel off a layer of the rope caulk “beads” and divide it based on how much you need.
- Press to seal.
Window AC Cover
Though it’s easily overlooked, your window AC unit could be a major player in the game of air leakage. Window AC covers are often placed on the outside of units, but those covers only protect the unit from wind and rain. Installing window AC covers indoors will give your unit added protection by stopping air leaks.
- Installation:
Tape the insulation liners to the face of the air conditioner and place the fabric cover over the windblock liner and air conditioner. - Before you purchase an AC cover, measure the air conditioning unit because covers come in three different sizes.
A window ac cover is made of a durable waterproof material that can be easily installed and removed when needed. It helps to keep the rain out and protect your AC unit from the elements. The cover also helps to insulate the air conditioner, keeping it running more efficiently, which can help save you money on energy costs.
Storm Windows
Of course, replacing your windows with more energy efficient models, such as double pane windows, is the most effective way to lower your energy bills. However, this can be an expensive option, especially if you have a lot of windows. Moreover, this might not be feasible if you’re living in a rented property e.g. apartment, condo or even house.
So what can you do short of replacing the windows? Install a plastic storm window. This project is cheap and should only take 1-2 hours.
Installation:
- The plastic storm window kit consists of a plastic spline and channel system to create a seal in front of the window.
- The storm is installed by attaching the lengths of adhesive white plastic channels around the frame of the window. Simply cut the plastic to the correct size to cover the window.
- The plastic is held in place with a thin plastic strip (the “spline”) that locks into the channel. The seal is achieved in a way similar to that of a sealing plastic bag.
- If well maintained, this solution is reusable, unlike the plastic film that is simply stuck on the window with an adhesive tape.
Caulk
We’ve already discussed caulk rope, which is easy to apply without any tools, and easy to remove, which is great for renters.
True caulk requires a bit more skill to apply, and a caulking gun, but is a more permanent solution. Caulking is an important part of weather proofing windows, as it helps to seal up any gaps or cracks that might let in air or moisture, and it’s relatively easy to apply.
Installation:
- First, remove any existing caulk or paint around the window frame. Then, use a chisel and hammer to open up any cracks or gaps in the frame.
- Vacuum out dirt and dust before applying the caulking.
- Cut the end of the tube at a 45-degree angle and place it into a caulking gun.
- Apply a line of caulk around the entire edge of the window frame, making sure to press down firmly as you go along so that it adheres properly.
- Smooth out excess caulk with a wet finger or putty knife as needed.
- Allow 24 hours for it to dry completely before painting over it if desired.
Once you’ve applied the caulking, you should also apply some weatherstripping around the edges of the window. This will help to create an additional barrier against drafts and leaks.
Bubble Wrap
Can you recall being a kid and getting more excited over the bubble wrap in the box than the toy that was in this same box?
With bubble wrap, an exacto knife, and a spray bottle you can insulate one window in less than one minute.
Installation:
- Spray water onto the window, place the bubble side against the window, and use the knife to get rid of the excess.
- All winter the wrap will hold to the window (without staining) with water as the only adhesive.
This free insulation will reduce your home’s energy usage and bring the R-value of each window to 2. That’s not great compared with other solutions, but it’s wonderful for being FREE. Silly as it may seem, bubble wrap is a great way to keep the warm air in and the cold air out.
When to Weatherproof Your Windows
Most people think about weatherproofing their windows in the fall, before the cold winter months set in. But did you know that you can actually save money by weatherproofing your windows in the spring?
That’s because unsealed doors not only let cold air in in the winter — they also let cool air out in the summer. There’s no need to make your air conditioner work harder in those hot summer months.
Conclusion
Weather proofing windows on a budget can be done with relative ease, as long as you are willing to put in the effort. Start off by doing some research and finding out what materials you need for your specific climate conditions. Then use caulk and weather stripping around your windows to seal up potential air leaks. Finally, add some window insulation film to help keep the heat or cold from entering your home throughout the year. With these tips, you should be well on your way to protecting your windows without breaking the bank!