how do you keep your windows warm in the winter

1. Cellular Shades Cellular shades are the most energy-efficient window treatments. They help block heat in summer while maintaining a comfortable temperature inside in winter. ...
2. Draperies Draperies are a great way to add extra insulation on top of an existing window treatment, like blinds or shades. ...
3. Plantation Shutters Plantation shutters might not seem like an effective solution to cover your windows when the temperature drops. ...
4. Roman Shades If you are looking for a versatile window covering option that offers both aesthetic appeal and insulation, your search ends at roman shades. ...
Solar Blinds Solar blinds help stabilize temperatures in summer by acting as a shield against ultraviolet (UV) rays. ...
Insulated Curtains Insulated curtains are lined curtains meant to keep warm air from leaving and cold air from entering through your windows. ...
Combination Window Coverings

How can I keep my house warm this winter?

As the temperature starts to take a dip, there are some simple things you can do to cut back on heating bills. Beyond replacing old windows and increasing insulation, here are 19 unexpected ways you can keep your house warm this winter.

What is the best way to keep windows cool in summer?

vmorgs: Put bubble wrap and plastic over all of your windows. No, it’s not pretty but it’s the best thing I’ve found (aside from getting new windows) to control heat loss via your windows. Dampen your windows with water from a spray bottle, and then cover the glass with cut to size pieces of bubble wrap.

How to insulate Your Windows when it’s Cold?

A combination of window coverings is a great idea to increase insulation. Some options include cellular shades and drapes, shutters and roman shades, and horizontal blinds and curtains. Additional Tips to Cover Your Windows When the Temperature Drops (Apart from Window Treatments)

How to choose the right window treatments for winter?

It is advisable to go for double cell shades for winter as these provide better insulation. Draperies are a great way to add extra insulation on top of an existing window treatment, like blinds or shades. They allow you to control the temperature inside and prevent heat loss in winter.

What can I put on my windows to keep the cold out?

Keep Cold Air from Coming Through WindowsSecondary Glazing. ... Insulating Curtains. ... Draught Snakes. ... Weather Strips. ... Strategic Caulking. ... Window Insulation Film. ... Window Insulation Tape. ... Get a Secondary Glazing Quote and Keep Draughts Out of Your Home.

How do I keep my glass warm in the winter?

Window film is an easy way to add an extra layer of insulation directly to your windows. You can find this product at stores like Lowes or Walmart. Simply stick the film to your windows, and use a blow dryer to seal it.

What is the cheapest way to insulate windows for winter?

The Best Low-Cost Ways to Insulate Your Windows This WinterInstall Low-E Storm Windows Over the Existing Frames.Recaulk Your Windows.Air Sealing with Foam Tape.Install Plastic Film Around the Glass.Insulate with Bubble Wrap.Invest in Some Thermal Curtains.

How do you make drafty windows warmer?

How to Keep Cold Air From Coming Through Your Windows and DoorsLock Your Windows and Apply Weatherstripping. ... Weatherproof Your Exterior Doors. ... Reglaze Loose Windowpanes. ... Use Physical Barriers on Drafty Doors. ... Layer Your Window Treatments. ... Fill in the Gaps to Seal Windows. ... Apply Temporary Caulk to Drafty Windows.More items...

Are curtains or blinds warmer?

In warm weather, however, blinds beat curtains in energy efficiency. Because blinds leak more heat from a room, they also decrease indoor heat gain more efficiently in the summer, by around 45 percent, which can lower your AC bills.

What do you put on windows during winter?

Caulk is a common material for insulating windows, and successful application will help with heat loss.Use a knife to scrape any old caulk or peeling paint off exterior or interior window edges. ... Fill a caulking gun with silicone caulking.Apply caulk between the window frame and siding.More items...

How do you cover windows to keep a room warm?

5 ways to insulate your apartment windowsUse window insulation film. Window film creates an insulating barrier between the interior of your apartment and your windows. ... Cover your windows with bubble wrap. ... Install removable magnetic window insulation. ... Use rope caulk to seal cracks. ... Add thermal curtains to your windows.

Does bubble wrap on windows keep cold out?

Bubble wrap works by increasing the isolative value of the window, making it effective in keeping the heat out in summer and preventing heat loss in winter. "The still layer of air trapped in the bubbles gives a cheap double-glazed-type effect," Ms Edwards said.

Does insulating film for windows work?

Window insulation film works by reducing the heat and UV rays that penetrate your windows as well as preventing heat escaping. Some films reduce heat transfer of the window by up to 50% and block up to 70% of solar heat gain. This can have a very positive impact on your energy bills, especially over the longer term.

How do you insulate existing windows?

6 Ways to Insulate Windows without Replacing ThemInstall Window Inserts. Window inserts offer excellent insulation during those frigid winter months while being cost-effective compared to full window replacements. ... Bubble Wrap. ... Traditional Caulk. ... Insulated Glass Units. ... Thermal Curtains. ... Draft Stoppers.

Do curtains help with drafty windows?

Good curtains stop cold air from entering your home by creating an air gap between the room and the window. Ideally, they also prevent any flow of hot and cold air which would create a draft.

Does aluminum foil in windows work?

Yes. Emergency management agencies specifically recommend using “aluminum foil-covered cardboard” between windows and drapes to reflect heat back outside.

How do you make a glass door warmer?

You can use plastic window kits on sliding glass doors and windows to keep the cold air out. You can purchase a kit and use a hairdryer to seal it and make your home more energy-efficient.

Is glass a good insulator of cold?

In addition to being a good electrical insulator, glass has many other useful properties. It is a good thermal insulator (most material are either both or neither), and it is resistant to many corrosive chemicals.

Can cold air go through glass?

Older windows, even some newer windows, can let cold air right into your home. It happens because of cracks, failed seals, and poor insulation. If you're trying to fix this problem by putting bubble wrap on windows, you can do better.

1. Look into replacement windows

Maybe the best way to improve insulation and keep your home warm this winter is to replace outdated windows with modern, energy-efficient windows. Replacement windows feature the newest technology to achieve the best possible insulation, from nearly-airtight frames to coated glass. According to the U.S.

2. Seal up any gaps

Older windows can be drafty, so take steps to seal off any areas where cold air can sneak into your home. It’s helpful to re-caulk the exteriors of your windows each year. You can also use weatherstripping and foam insulation to shore up any gaps.

3. Use curtains to your advantage

Throughout the day while the sun is shining, open the curtains on your windows to allow sunlight to enter and warm your home. The sun is an excellent (and free!) source of heat. Once the sun goes down, be sure to close your curtains to help block out the icy cold drafts that can enter your house through an inefficient window.

4. Apply a window film

Window insulation film is an easy and inexpensive way to bolster your windows with an added barrier between the interior of your home and the frigid air outside. Window film is like shrink-wrap for your windows. Apply the transparent film for the winter and remove it once warmer weather arrives.

5. Contact Kingsford Windows

No matter what your home improvement needs are, don’t hesitate to contact the window replacement experts at Kingsford Windows! We’re happy to take a look at your windows, suggest a plan of action, and provide an estimate to ensure your home has the best possible windows for your budget – not just this winter, but any time of year.

Detecting Air Leaks

Just because you can feel a draft doesn’t mean you can locate its source. That’s where this little test can come in handy. Here’s how you do it.

Applying Silicone Sealant

Once you’ve determined where the air leaks are coming from, it’s time to get down to weatherizing! And your first move will be to remove the existing caulk around the window panes and to replace it with new sealant.

Adding Foam Tape

Next, you’ll need to address the other parts of your windows: specifically the sides that go up and down. You can accomplish that by placing adhesive foam tape around the outsides of each sash. Remove the paper backing and press it into place with your fingers.

Going the Extra Mile: Other Weatherproofing Strategies

Sometimes your windows might need a little extra oomph, especially if they’re older or if you don’t have storm windows. Luckily, there are a couple of techniques you can use for extra insulation.

First, Prepare Your Windows

With any of the methods below, you’ll want to do some basic beginning steps to get started sealing your windows for winter.

Caulk Your Windows

One of the best ways to winterize windows is by caulking them. Essentially what you’re doing is re-caulking the windows where old caulk dried up and isn’t properly insulating your windows anymore. You’ll have to venture a little into the do-it-yourself world, but caulking is pretty simple.

Apply Window Film and Insulation

An easy and simple way to seal your windows for winter is by applying window film and insulation. You can apply all insulating film from inside your home, so you won’t have to worry about venturing out into the cold for too long.

Decorate With Thermal Curtains and Blinds

Your curtains and blinds probably already help with insulation in your house. Still, it’s a good idea to thermal curtains and blinds because they are specifically designed to keep out the cold.

Cover Basement Window Wells

Uncovered window wells let in cold and moisture. Of course, the main reason you have window wells is to let light into the basement, so why would you want to cover them?

Try Bubble Wrap

If you’re looking for a very quick and cheap fix, you might consider using bubble wrap on your windows. This option doesn’t last long. So, it’s better to use it as a quick fix while finding a long-term solution. It is not intended to serve an entire winter in Northern Illinois or Southern Wisconsin.

Avoid The Cold for Good and Invest in Better Windows!

Now that you’ve learned your options, you might be wondering “what is the best way to seal windows for winter?” The absolute best way is to invest in high-quality windows! You’ll save a ton of money throughout the year and not to mention your house will get a nice-looking upgrade.

What is the best window treatment for winter?

Cellular shades are the most energy-efficient window treatments. They help block heat in summer while maintaining a comfortable temperature inside in winter. Also known as honeycomb shades, these window coverings feature a honeycomb design that creates an air pocket between the window glass and your home’s interior that prevents heat from escaping, thus acting as an insulator. These shades not only create a cozy environment inside your room but also up the style game of your home décor. They are available in a wide range of layering options including single and double cell. It is advisable to go for double cell shades for winter as these provide better insulation.

Why do you need insulated curtains?

Insulated curtains are lined curtains meant to keep warm air from leaving and cold air from entering through your windows. Aside from helping maintain moderate temperatures inside your home, they reduce pressure on your HVAC system.

How to keep windows warm in winter?

Prevent drafts of cold air from cracks in or around the windows. Insulate the glass for winter with temporary or permanent coverings . The following methods can winterize your windows one of those two ways to keep your home warm and your heating bills reasonable when the weather turns chilly. 1. Sealing and caulking windows.

How to keep heat inside?

One of the easiest ways to keep the heat inside, heavy thermally lined drapes whether floor length or sill length do work, and they definitely look a lot better than putting plastic over the windows. They can be changed out for a lighter window treatment in spring and summer, and you can always open them when you want to enjoy your view. Hang them as close to the windows as you can and let them stop at the sill or the floor. For even better energy-efficiency, velcro them to the walls and overlap the panels where they meet. You can also double hang regular drapes for the same thermal benefits.

What is a storm window?

Storm windows range from plastic sheets designed for one season's use to plastic panels to high-quality, low-emissivity glass that reduce heat transmission. They may be designed either for exterior or interior installation, but interior storm windows are easier to install and keep clean. Some storm windows are meant to be permanently installed;

How much heat loss can you get from replacing windows?

According to the Department of Energy's website, Energy.gov, whether you have old windows or newer, replacement windows, they can account for as much as 30 percent of your home's heating loss. If you want to prevent heat loss from your windows, there are basically two ways:

What does "welcome winter" mean?

You welcome winter -- the promise of a silent overnight snowfall; lacy, leafless trees smothered in a white blanket knit from snowflakes; the bracing jolt of crisp, cold air when you venture out.

Do storm windows provide insulation?

Storm windows used to be the go-to method to winterize windows when all windows were single-pane. They don't provide insulation, but they prevent air movement through single pane windows that are in good condition.

Do security films protect against glass?

Security films that are thicker but use the exact same technology protect you from shattering glass, so if you also live in a storm-prone area, for a few dollars more a square foot, you can get an extra layer of protection for your home and stay warm in winter. About the Author.

How to prevent heat loss in windows?

To prevent heat loss through the movable parts of your windows, such as the gaps between the sash and the window frame, you can apply temporary insulation called weather sealing strips. Using EPDM, foam or felt stripping, you can cut the product to size and apply them over all the seams and gaps of your windows.

What are some ways to keep heat inside?

1. Blinds and curtains. Curtains provide more insulation for your windows than blinds do but if you combine them both, you can benefit from the insulation they provide whilst also being able to control the level of sunlight. In the winter months, curtains do a great job of keeping heat indoors, especially thermal curtains, ...

How to insulate a window that is 1/4 inch wide?

Caulk. If you have cracks in the window sash or around the window that are 1/4-inch wide or less, you can insulate these with water-based latex caulk. Caulk is an inexpensive insulating product that is easy to apply, however, you will have to reapply it every year or two as windows are subject to expanding and contracting due to changes in ...

What is the purpose of insulate windows?

Insulating windows, a simple and inexpensive project, can reap huge benefits for your comfort level and for your monthly energy bill. Think of it as an upgrade. While insulation can’t transform a bad window into a high-performance window, it can be used to upgrade a single pane glass window to double pane as well as strengthening high-performance windows. Some insulation measures may make more of a difference than others, but all 6 help to keep your home warm throughout the colder seasons!

How much heat does a single pane of glass lose?

Interesting fact: a single pane of glass can lose nearly 10 times as much heat as the same area of an insulated wall. In the cold winter months, this massive heat loss causes problems not only to your comfort but also to your wallet too!

Does window film work?

Unlike other products, however, window film is an inexpensive yet long term insulation solution that requires zero maintenance and it doesn’t affect the level ...

Inspect

You can inspect your windows for any gaps that are letting drafts in. Any gaps allow for air to leak from your home and cold drafts to come in. One way you can tell if you have gaps around your windows is through holding a lit candle around it. Any areas where the flame flickers abnormally is a gap.

Draft Snakes

Draft snakes, also known as draft stoppers, can be used in the event that you need to block a draft but can’t redo the caulking or the weatherstripping just yet. They are types that are aligned along the window frames in order to block gaps air can leak out through.

Seal And Caulk

If you locate any gaps, you’ll want to seal them up. Caulking can deteriorate or crack, so you’ll want to dig out any caulking that is cracked or deteriorating and re-caulk the area to seal it.

Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping is similar to caulking, but used on windows with moveable parts. Weatherstripping comes in several different types, from rubber to felt to v-seal to expanding spray foam. Adding weatherstripping or repairing or replacing current weatherstripping shuts out the outside air and keeps your heated air inside where it belongs.

Window Film

Window film insulates and is a very cost-effective way to winterize your windows. This plastic film is applied over your windows in order to provide an additional layer of protection. Window film both insulates your home and protects it from harmful UV rays.

Insulate

Insulating around the frame can help winterize your windows too. You can use battling insulation or a low-expansion spray foam that will fill in any gaps in your framing.

Bubblewrap

Bubblewrap is another cost-effective method of window winterization. You can apply it directly to the window in a similar way you would apply window film, and you can use it as a temporary insulator in any gaps between your window and its framing.