Windows provide natural light, aesthetic appeal and ventilation in a home, but they also notoriously contribute to drafts in the winter and thermal heat transfer in the summer. Because windows are often weak points when it comes to home insulation, there are lots of products on the market that are specifically designed to address insulation problems and reduce drafts coming from windows. Keep reading to learn how to install a window insulation kit to improve the comfort and efficiency of your home this fall and winter.
What is a window insulation kit?
There are lots of different window insulation kits on the market, but most kits include a few of the same types of products, such as heat-shrink plastic, insulating materials, double-sided tape and magnetic strips that are designed to keep drafts out during the fall and winter. These kits provide a temporary solution for drafty windows, and although these kits don’t offer the
same level of performance as new, highly-efficient windows, they are an affordable alternative to window replacement and can be quite effective when installed properly.
How to install a window insulation kit
Window insulation kits are a much more affordable alternative to window replacement that can make a big difference in the comfort and efficiency of a home during the winter months. If you’ve decided to install window insulation kits in your home this fall, follow these tips to get the most out of the process:
- Start by locking the windows: Before installing a window insulation kit, make sure your windows are closed completely and locked. Locking the windows will offer the best seal possible to block outdoor air and improve the effectiveness of your window insulation kits.
- Take the time to get the right fit: Window insulation kits are made with pre-cut plastic sheets and insulation materials that must be adjusted to fit a window perfectly. Take time to measure the materials you have, and make sure everything fits as snugly as possible. While it might take longer to get the right fit, it’s worth it for that extra performance and efficiency.
- Seal other drafts: Windows are often major contributors to draftiness during the winter, but there are other weak points homeowners should pay attention to. Gaps underneath doors and along baseboards, for example, can also cause cold air to seep into a home when the temperatures outside drop. Use caulk and weather-stripping products to seal these gaps to minimize airflow as much as possible. This will boost the effectiveness of window insulation kits and help you maintain a more comfortable home no matter how cold outdoor temperatures get.
- Follow kit instructions: Different window kits have different components, so it’s important to follow the instructions on the window kit you select to enjoy the best results. Read through the instructions before starting your project to make sure you don’t miss anything along the way.
Buy window insulation kits today
If you’re looking for a window insulation kit to prepare your home for fall and winter, stop by Stewart Lumber & Hardware Co. to stock up on all the home improvement products you need. Since 1926, we have been proud to provide our customers with the quality products they need for any project—no matter how big or small. Check out our selection for yourself by stopping by today.