Insulate Your Windows to Save on Heating

10/21/2015

Windows and doors are the least insulated portion of your home.  Because they’re thinner and lack the spacing and insulation of your regular walls they release more heat, meaning you have to spend more to keep your house warm during the winter.

While you could simply place some rugs or thermal blankets over the windows, that option makes it very difficult to look outside during the winter. Instead, weather strips can help you insulate doors and windows to reduce the amount of heat lost through them.

Tension Seal (V-Strip)

A simple strip of plastic, folded into a V-shape.  Once inserted into a gap, it expands into the v-shape and seals the opening with a double layer of plastic.  The strip is held in place by the tension created by the shape, which gives it its name.

• Install: V-Strips are typically placed along the side of a double-hung or sliding window, or along the top and side of a door.

Felt Insulation

Felt weather strips are sold in a coiled strip.  Application is easy as you simply compress the strip into the door jamb or window sash. Felt is inexpensive, but doesn’t last for longer than two years.

• Install: Felt is installed around a door or window sash.

Door Sweeps

Door sweeps are made from a flexible strip of plastic, nylon, vinyl, or a sponge brush that fits within the gap between the base of a door and the threshold.  Each strip is usually mounted to the door with a firm frame made out of aluminum, steel, or plastic.

• Install: Installed on the inside of your home along the base of the door.

Foam Tape

Made out of cell foam (open or closed) or EPDM rubber, foam tape comes with an adhesive backing that makes it simply to install.  The flexible tape is great for installing into irregular-sized gaps and cracks.

• Install: Anywhere a gap exists.

Tubular Rubber, Vinyl, or Silicone

As an air barrier, there’s little better than this type of weatherstrip.  Tubular weather stripping is compressible to fit into any gap and can be mounted with a solid frame or an adhesive.

• Install: Depending on the type of tubing purchased, it will be applied using an adhesive, mounted to a wood or metal strip, or placed inside of a milled or routed groove in the frame.

Don’t forget that standard methods for insulating windows such as drapes or shutters will help create an air barrier that will hold heat inside. Just open them when the sun is shining through and close them when it moves on.

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Call us at 515-COMFORT for more information window insulation to keep your centrally heated air indoors.

Thank you for making Service Legends the #1 provider of residential heating and air conditioning in the Des Moines area. A live and friendly customer care representative is ready to take your call 24/7 at 515-COMFORT (515.266.3678).

515-657-6634Request Appointment Online

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