How to Insulate Windows for Draft-Control

12/22/2014

By sealing your windows, you can save up to 20% on your energy bill, and have a draft-free home all winter long.

Are you throwing money out the window?

If you’re on a tight budget, the first thing you’ll want to try is weatherstripping. However, because there are so many weatherstripping options, it’s important to pick the right one for your home. When choosing weatherstripping, the most common options include:

V Strip (Tension Seal)
Felt
Foam Tape
Tubular Rubber, Vinyl, or Silicone

V Strip (Tension Seal)

V Strips are durable metal or plastic strips that fold into a “V” shape. They spring open to bridge gaps. You’ll want to place these along the sides of a double-hung or sliding window.

When installing, simply cut your desired length, then peel and stick. And voila!

Felt

Felt is inexpensive, however, it only lasts a year or two. You have two options when purchasing it: plain or reinforced, both come with a pliable metal strip. Place the felt around a window sash; in the door’s jamb so that it compresses against the floor.

When installing, use a utility knife to cut your desired length, then staple or nail in place.

Foam Tape

Foam tape is made from open or closed-cell foam or EPDM rubber with a sticky back. You can purchase these in varied widths and thickness, so if you have an irregular-sized crack, this may work best. Place the foam tape on the top and bottom of window sashes.

When installing, simply cut your desired length and adhere where needed.

Tubular Rubber, Vinyl, or Silicone

If you’re in need of an effective air barrier, tubular rubber, vinyl, or silicone is a great option. They’re made of a narrow sponge rubber or vinyl tubing that is attached to a wood or metal mounting strip. Place at the base of a window or at the top or bottom of a window sash.

When installing, depending on which kind you choose, either peel and stick or fasten with screws.

You can also help prevent air leakage and drafts from your windows by installing heavy drapes or shades and keeping them closed when there is no sun out. Remember to open them back up to take advantage of the sun’s energy.

Another thing you can do is apply a heat-shrink film to your windows. They are cheap and easy to install; all you have to do is apply the film to the edges of your window and, using a blow dryer, apply heat to the film so that it creates an airtight seal. Here is a video showing you how to do it.

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At Service Legends, we take pride in heating and cooling Des Moines and the surrounding areas. Our HVAC services include furnace and air conditioner installation, repairs, maintenance, and tune-ups. Our lineup of Indoor Air Quality solutions includes whole-home humidifiers, air purifiers, and air filtration systems. We can even help with HVAC financing.

Call 515-657-6634 to contact our Home Comfort Heroes today. We’re standing by 24/7.

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