As winter approaches, many homeowners think about keeping their homes cozy and energy bills low. Windows are a major source of heat loss, and homeowners often believe they need to replace them to improve their home’s energy efficiency. But with just a little time and money, you can reduce drafts, lower energy costs, and create a more comfortable living environment by insulating your windows.
- Price Range: $1,200+
- Glass and Hardware Warranty: 10–20 years
- Labor Warranty: 2 years
- BBB Rating: A+
- State Availability: 47 states
- Installs its own patented Fibrex framing
- Includes a transferable 20-year warranty on glass and a 10-year warranty on nonglass materials
- Holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau
- Doesn’t carry aluminum, fiberglass, or wood frames
- Can have long wait times between consultation and installation, according to customer reviews
You can purchase the following window styles from Renewal by Andersen:
- Awning
- Bay/bow
- Casement
- Double-hung
- Picture
- Sliding/gliding
- Specialty windows with geometric shapes
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Why Should You Insulate Your Windows?
Poorly insulated windows can account for up to 30% of a home’s heat loss in winter and unwanted heat gain in summer. This can make your home’s temperature uncomfortable and increase your energy bills as your heating and cooling systems work overtime to compensate.
Insulating windows reduces energy costs and outside noise, improving indoor comfort. It also minimizes condensation and moisture issues and extends the lifespan of heating and cooling systems.
What Are the Best Methods for Insulating Windows?
When looking for an effective way to insulate windows, your options range from simple do-it-yourself solutions to more complex projects.
Option 1: Caulk Your Windows
Caulking is a cost-effective and straightforward way to seal gaps and cracks around windows. It’s particularly useful for addressing small air leaks and preventing drafts.
You’ll need a caulk gun, a tube of temporary caulk, and a caulk finishing tool. The supplies can cost less than ten dollars. Use temporary caulk so you can open the windows in the spring and summer.
Before caulking, clean the walls around the window frame. Then, apply a quarter-inch line of caulk around the outside of the window and window panes. Use the caulk finishing tool or your finger to smooth the bead of the caulk for a proper seal.
Read Also: How To weatherproof windows
Option 2: Lay Down a Draft Stopper
Draft stoppers, also called draft snakes or draft blockers, are simple devices that you place at the bottom of windows to prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping. They’re typically made of rubber or a fabric tube filled with sand. They are easy to make yourself if you can’t find one in the store.
Measure your windowsill’s length and place the draft stopper along the bottom, in the crack between the window frame and window sash. While not enough on their own to overhaul a room’s energy efficiency, they complement other methods by serving as an additional buffer against minor drafts.
Option 3: Hang Thermal Curtains
Thermal curtains insulate windows through multiple layers of fabric, sometimes including an acrylic foam layer. They’re an attractive and functional way to reduce heat transfer through windows.
You’ll need to install curtain rods if you don’t already have them. While a tension rod can be a quick solution, thermal curtains are often too heavy and will pull the rod down. When you hang the curtains, they should cover the entire window and extend beyond the frame.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Option 4: Apply Weather Stripping
Weatherstripping seals gaps around operable parts of windows, preventing air leakage while still allowing the window to function normally. This differs from caulk, which doesn’t let you open the windows until you’re ready to break the seal. When applied correctly, weatherstripping is a relatively inexpensive way to insulate windows that are frequently open and shut.
Clean the area where you will apply the weather stripping, then measure and cut the stripping to ft. Peel off the adhesive backing and apply the weather stripping to the window frame.
Option 5: Install Window Film
Window film provides an additional barrier against heat transfer, and you can find kits at most big box home stores. It’s an affordable option to reduce heat loss in the winter, but you won’t be able to open the windows until the weather gets warmer.
To apply window film, clean the window and surrounding area. Apply the double-sided tape in the kit around the outside of the window frame. Cut the film to size, leaving a slight overlap past the tape. Carefully smooth the film down over the tape, making it taut. Then, use a hairdryer to shrink the film and create a tight seal.
Which Insulation Method Is Best for Your Windows?
When deciding which insulation method to use or which methods to combine, weigh the following factors:
- Window type and condition: Caulk works best on smooth, newer window frames, while window film may struggle to adhere to old, damaged wood. Draft stoppers are versatile and effective for all window types without requiring attachment.
- Budget: Caulk, window film, and weather stripping are affordable solutions for sealing drafts on a tight budget. Thermal curtains and high-quality draft stoppers will likely cost more, but a DIY draft stopper is an affordable option.
- Aesthetics: Some homeowners dislike the look of window film and may prefer thermal curtains for an additional insulation layer.
- Window functionality: If you need to open and shut the windows, opt for draft stoppers, weather stripping, or thermal curtains. Caulk and window film limit window functionality until removed.
- Weather severity: In mild climates, weather stripping or draft stoppers may be sufficient to reduce drafts. For harsher winters, combining methods such as thermal curtains, caulk, and window film offers better protection.
When Should You Replace Your Windows for Improved Insulation?
While insulation methods can improve energy efficiency, replacement may be the best long-term solution for windows over 20 years old or showing significant damage or decay. Single-pane windows in cold climates or persistent high energy bills despite insulation efforts also indicate that replacement may be necessary.
New energy-efficient windows can offer superior insulation and lead to noticeable energy savings. Financial incentives such as energy rebates or tax credits can make the investment more appealing and help offset the up-front costs.
Final Thoughts About Insulating Windows
Choosing the right insulation approach depends on your home’s specific needs, but whether you opt for DIY methods or store-bought upgrades, insulating your windows is a smart step toward improved comfort and long-term energy savings.
While affordable solutions such as caulking and weather stripping provide immediate relief, they are often temporary fixes until a more substantial investment, such as window replacement, becomes feasible.
FAQs About Insulating Windows
You can effectively keep the cold out of your house by applying caulk to any gaps between your window sashes and frames. Additionally, you can hang thermal curtains, apply weather stripping, put up window film, or use a draft stopper.
The least expensive and most effective way to insulate your windows for the winter is with caulk. For about $10 to $15, you can insulate any cracks in your windows and maximize energy savings.
Window insulation film works well and is worth the installation time and effort. Your home will be less drafty and using film helps to conserve energy and lower your utility bills.
Yes, adding insulation to your windows and sealing air leaks are some of the most cost-effective ways to reduce heating costs in your home. By completing both of these tasks, you could save up to 10% on your energy costs.
