A drafty window makes it challenging to keep the heat in during winter. Inadequate seals can allow enough cold air into your home to reduce the interior temperature.
Well-insulated windows, however, keep the heat in during winter and help keep your heating bills low.
Several short- and long-term solutions are available for a cozy home environment when considering how to insulate windows for winter.
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Window Insulation Costs
A chilly home can be a reflection of poor window insulation.
Fortunately, there are several ways to keep the heat in; here are the most popular options with approximate pricing.
Professional Install Options
| Cost of Popular Window Insulation Types | Approximate Average Total Cost per Window |
|---|---|
| Secondary Windows | $336-$560 |
| Low-E Storm Windows | $85-$180 |
| Insulated Glass Units (Argon-Filled) | $363-$435 |
Secondary Windows
Secondary windows are separate, single-glazed panes that are installed on the inside of your existing windows.
The total cost to have these fitted per window is approximately $336 to $560.
Low-E Storm Windows
Low-E storm windowpanes are coated with a thin layer of metal that reflects infrared heat into your property.
The average cost, including material and labor, is $85 to $180 per window.
Insulated Glass Units (Argon-Filled)
An insulated glass unit, or IGU, consists of two glass panes divided by an inert gas for energy efficiency.
Argon-filled IGUs are the most cost-effective type. The average cost for one argon-filled IGU is approximately $363 to $435.
Did you know? Argon gas-insulated glass panes are thicker than air. When argon-filled double glass units are used with low-E glass coating, it brings the temperature of the window nearer to room temperature. This eliminates drafts and air currents that happen when different temperatures meet.
DIY Window Insulation Options
| DIY Options | Approximate Price |
|---|---|
| Window Inserts | $372-$598 |
| Duck Brand Bubble Wrap Cushioning 12 inches x 15 feet | $7.99 |
| Weather Strip (Foam Tape) 40 feet | $8.89 |
| Gorilla Caulking Clear Sealent | $10.99 |
| Insulated Curtains | $30.99 |
| Draft Snakes 3-Foot Two-Pack | $19.70 |
| 3M Window Insulator Film Kit for Five 3 x 5-Foot Windows | $51.54 |
Window Inserts
Window inserts are windows installed within the existing sill and trim.
They are available as standard, performance, or commercial grade.
The total cost for an average window is $372 to $598.
Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap is an excellent temporary window insulator, thanks to the air trapped inside the bubbles.
You can expect to pay approximately $7.99 for a 12-inch x 15-foot roll of large bubble cushioning.
Weather Stripping (Foam Tape)
Foam tape weather stripping is available in various thicknesses and is commonly used to insulate the sides of windows.
It costs around $8.89 for about 40 feet of self-adhesive foam.
Caulking
Caulking is a highly effective window insulator, ideal for sealing cracks or gaps.
For about a foot of Gorilla clear sealant, expect to pay approximately $10.09.
Insulated Curtains
Thick curtains are powerful insulators, and they stop the cold air from the window from circulating in the room.
For a two-piece set of insulated curtains, expect to pay around $30.99.
Some factors that will affect the price include the type of material, how much material, and whether the curtains are custom-made.
Draft Snakes
Draft snakes are an effective and decorative way to block out the cold air.
There are available in a variety of designs for aesthetics.
A pack of two 3-foot draft snakes generally costs around $19.70.
Window Insulation Film
Window insulation film is another excellent DIY method to help prevent heat from escaping your home.
A 3M window insulator kit that includes everything you need to insulate five 3 x 5-foot windows will cost approximately $51.54.
Did you know? Using window film lowers your home cooling cost in addition to reducing heating costs. This method blocks up to 97% of the light emitted by the sun and rejects up to 60% of its heat. This produces a much cooler home environment during the summer and saves on cooling costs.
What Can I Put on Windows to Keep Out the Cold?
Here are some great short-term options you can DIY for more window insulation this winter.
Window Insulation Film
Window insulation films are plastic sheets that shrink when heated and are suitable for creating an insulating barrier between the inside of your home and your windows.
Using double-sided sticky tape, stick a sheet onto the inner frame of the window, then heat it using a hairdryer, and it will shrink and adhere to the surface.
This method will seal your windows well and keep the cold out.
However, they are not the best option for aesthetics, and they may create a cloudy layer in the window glazing that is quite noticeable.
Additionally, you won’t be able to lower your blinds or shades, and one swipe of a cat’s claw will render them fairly useless.
Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap has excellent insulation properties.
It strengthens the isolative value of your windows, keeps the heat out in the summer, and traps heat during the winter.
Using bubble wrap may not be the most aesthetically pleasing. However, it gets the job done and installs easily using tape.
Weather Strips
Weather strips or insulation tape is another inexpensive and simple way of keeping the cold out of the windows.
These self-adhesive strips are available in three types: V-type, compression, and foam.
Foam strips are the easiest to use and are long-lasting.
However, when you’re ready to remove them, you could end up peeling the paint, or the adhesive may leave some residue.
Caulking
Caulking is another convenient, flexible, and effective insulation method, and while it may be tempting to caulk all around the window, you could accidentally seal them closed.
If you want to have the option of opening the window, you can use caulk to block any areas of the window that could let the cold in.
Re-caulking your windows is a complete way to seal them.
However, if not applied correctly, it can look unsightly.
Pro Tip: If you’re new to caulking, consider practicing getting the technique right on a paper towel or piece of cardboard before working on your windows.
This will allow you to develop the pulling motion required to dispense the caulk directly into the crack as it comes out of the tube.
Draft Snakes
Draft snakes are an effective method you can implement yourself in minutes.
Draft snakes are fabric tubes stuffed with a filler, like rice or clay cat litter, to keep them in position.
You lay them across your window sill to block the cold air.
They are cheap and straightforward to make and can be used as decorative pieces to enhance your room.
The only drawback of using draft snakes is that they can only be used horizontally, so they won’t be effective if the draft comes via the sides or frame.
Insulating Curtains
In addition to blocking excess light, insulated (thick) curtains block the draft and prevent air movement.
They feature a unique lining that keeps the warm air inside in the winter and blocks the heat during the summer, so they are useful all year round.
Insulating curtains can also make fabulous room features when choosing a color or print to enhance the room’s color scheme.
However, thick curtains won’t be your best option if you want to allow natural light into the room.
Did you know? Insulated curtains also offer sound-absorbing qualities. Because of the backing or coating on thermal curtains, they can lessen the amount of noise entering your room from your windows.
What Is The Best Way To Winterize Your Windows?
The best way to winterize your windows is to replace them with energy-efficient windows to block drafts and keep heat inside.
Consider Installing Secondary Windows
Investing in secondary windows is one of the best methods to keep the cold air out.
These are permanent and look good, so it is a highly versatile option.
You can have secondary windows discreetly installed on the inside of your windows without affecting the exterior aesthetically.
A standout advantage of secondary glazing for winterization is that they typically include controlled ventilation.
Some of the temporary seal methods discussed above come with a risk of developing humidity build-up inside the window, which could lead to condensation and dampness, resulting in mold.
Secondary windows do not have this problem. They prevent moisture accumulation, so you’ll have a warmer home while maintaining excellent ventilation.
Cheapest Way To Insulate Windows For Winter
Replacing the windows in your home can be pricey.
Fortunately, there are several affordable ways to improve the winter performance of your windows.
Consider Installing Low-E Storm Windows
Storm windows are one of the most budget-friendly options for upgrading inefficient windows.
Installing a low-emissivity (low-E) storm window over your existing windows can reduce your utility bill about the same as replacing them with new energy code-level windows.
Low-E storm windows are coated with a virtually see-through layer of metal that reflects infrared heat into the home. The ultra-thin metal improves the window’s insulation and reduces heating and cooling costs.
Storm windows can be slightly expensive but are more affordable than new windows.
Low-E storm windows cost approximately $85 to $180 per window.
Low-E Storm windows can be installed either over the exterior or interior of your window.
Other cheap but temporary window insulation methods include:
- Bubble wrap
- Window insulation film
- Weather strips
- Draft snakes
- Caulking
- Insulated windows
Did you know? Low-E storm windows can reduce annual energy costs by 12-33% over not installing them. They are ideal for noisy areas, as they help minimize outside noise.
How To Insulate Old Windows
Old and outdated windows may be responsible for significant heat loss and air leakage.
Windows with broken seals, cracked glass, and poor insulation will affect your home’s energy efficiency by increasing energy bills.
If your property is having problems maintaining a warm temperature, here are some of the best options for insulating old windows without replacing them:
Insulated Glass Units
If the windows you want to insulate are still in good condition, you could swap the glass with insulated glass units.
These are two sheets of glass divided by an inert gas. This division diffuses heat transference in and out of your home for more insulation.
Insulated glass units (IGUs), also known as double-pane glass, are closed systems.
If one of the glass sheets breaks or cracks, the complete unit will need replacing.
IGUs can be customized according to how much insulation is required.
You’ll have the option to choose thinner or thicker glass, the spacer width, and the gas type between panes (common gases including krypton, argon, or both).
Depending on how you customize insulated glass units, they can quickly get expensive.
Install Window Inserts
Windows inserts deliver excellent insulation in cold weather and are budget-friendly compared to complete replacements.
Window inserts fit over the interior of your windows.
Some window inserts are kept in place with compression tubing for a tight seal bordering the window frame, with no damage to the window or frame.
Window inserts are made with acrylic, making it a higher insulation material than glass.
So, even if inserts are installed on poorly sealed windows or front windows containing tiny cracks, the inserts will eradicate drafts and increase the complete energy efficiency of the property.
When window inserts are installed, they are practically unnoticeable.
Window inserts make an ideal option for historic properties, as they are custom-made to fit perfectly.
Window inserts allow you to preserve the beauty and historic character of the property.
Did you know? The first glass windows were used by the Romans. Before the glass window, a “window” was a hole in the wall. The Romans are recognized as using the first glass windows, which utilized glass-blowing methods from ancient Egypt.
Does Putting Plastic On Windows In Winter Help?
Using shrink-to-fit plastic wrap over your windows is a practical, easy, and inexpensive way to reduce drafts and maintain a warmer home during the winter.
This method reduces moisture build-up on the windows from condensation.
In addition, window plastic wraps eliminate any air leaks surrounding the window when it extends over the woodwork.
This additional coat of plastic offers another layer of insulating air to reduce the heat escaping through the windows.
Benefits Of Insulating Windows Before Winter
Investing in window insulation helps to keep a comfortable temperature in your home by reducing the amount of heat loss.
It also keeps your energy bills lower.
It’s a good idea to insulate your windows before winter so when you switch on your heating system for the first time at the beginning of the season, it won’t need to work overtime to keep your home warm.
Beat The Cold With Insulated Windows
Windows can be a significant source of heat loss in the winter, and sometimes wearing extra clothing at home isn’t enough to keep warm.
Fortunately, when thinking about how to insulate windows for winter, you may be surprised by the number of cost-effective methods that don’t involve replacing windows.
You can install additional panes on the inside or outside of the windows.
Alternatively, you can choose from several DIY methods, including bubble wrap, weather stripping, or window insulation film.
You won’t be short on options to help keep your home toasty and warm this winter.
