DIY Window Insulation: Free or Cheap Materials to Keep Your Home Warm

During the cold season, keeping your home warm and comfortable is a top priority, especially if you're looking for solutions that are easy on your budget. There are many materials available that you can use to insulate your windows temporarily, and most of them are readily available or can be sourced cheaply. This article will explore some of the best options, including how to install them for maximum warmth while ensuring easy removal in warmer weather.

Materials for DIY Window Insulation

1. Clear Polythene Sheets

A simple form of secondary glazing can be made using light wooden frames and clear polythene sheets fitted closely within the window frames. To fit the polythene, follow these steps:

Take a butter knife and pack toilet paper around the inside edges of the window. Twist the toilet paper and pack it into the cracks around the window, ensuring you cover all areas, including the outside of the casing where the wall meets it. Fill in any gaps with more twisted toilet paper as needed. Cut a piece of clear polythene sheet to fit your window and tape it in place. Alternatively, you can use a heat source like a hair dryer to melt the edges of the plastic and seal it to the window frame. Add wooden strips on the outside to reinforce the plastic sheet if needed.

This method is effective, though it may not be the most aesthetically pleasing. Optionally, consider adding a bold frame to cover the clear plastic for a more visually appealing look.

2. Plastic Film and Draft Stoppers

Another effective option is to use plastic film, which is easy to cut and fit to your windows. Here's how you can do it:

Clean the window area thoroughly before applying the film to ensure the best seal. Cut a piece of plastic film to fit your window and use double-sided tape or a hair dryer to seal the edges. Apply it to the inside of the window frame. For added draft protection, place draft stoppers around the window frames to block cold air from entering.

Plastic film is a cost-effective solution that does not block much light and is easy to remove when the weather warms up.

3. Bubble Wrap and Foam Tape

Bubble wrap is another great insulator that is easy on the budget. It is light, and its air pockets make it an excellent insulator:

Cut bubble wrap to fit your window and apply it to the inside of the window frame. To enhance the seal, use foam tape around the edges of the bubble wrap to prevent drafts. Bubble wrap allows light to pass through, making it a versatile choice for windows.

4. Thermal Curtains and Bedroom Blankets

Thermal curtains and old blankets can also serve as excellent insulators for windows. Install these:

Hang thermal curtains on the inside of the windows to provide an extra layer of insulation. Cover the windows with old blankets during cold nights for additional warmth. For a more decorative option, choose thermal curtains with a soft, cozy fabric.

These materials can be removed and reused, making them ideal for temporary insulation solutions.

Styrofoam vs. Quarries

While styrofoam and quilts can be less effective options, they still have their uses. Styrofoam, for instance, can be placed on the outside of windows, but it can be less effective in reducing heat loss due to its reflection of light and lack of aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, a quilt can be placed on the inside of a window, but it can present a fire hazard and block too much light.

Heat Shrink Plastic

Heat shrink plastic is a cost-effective and transparent insulation option. Here's how to install it:

Clean the window area and cut a piece of heat shrink plastic to fit your window opening. Install it over the inside opening of the window with double-sided tape. Select a warm day to ensure the plastic expands properly and gives a tight seal.

This method provides additional layers of insulation and reduces air infiltration and drafts. It is easily applied and removed.

Conclusion

There are numerous materials available to insulate your windows during the cold season, and many of them can be sourced for free or at a very low cost. By using these inexpensive and effective solutions, you can keep your home warm and cozy without breaking the bank. Always ensure that you clean the window area before applying any materials and seal the edges to prevent drafts and improve the overall seal of your windows.