Collaborative post
As much as 20% of a home’s heat can be lost through uninsulated windows. Fortunately, there are many different ways to limit heat loss through windows – including a few cheap temporary solutions. This post delves into some of the best ways to insulate windows.
Window insulating film
Window insulating film is a plastic film that can be stuck onto a window pane. Such products claim to reduce heat loss through windows by up to 60%. This film is cheap to buy and is suitable for renters. A drawback of window insulating film is that it can make views out of your windows a little less clear, although it is mostly transparent.
Thermal curtains
Most curtains are designed purely to block out light or provide privacy. However, a thick pair of winter thermal curtains can also reduce heat loss. These curtains are made from insulated fabric and typically hang all the way to the floor to provide full insulation. Prices of these curtains can vary, although in most cases you can expect to pay more for thermal curtains than you would for regular curtains. Just remember that you’ll have to have these curtains drawn to reap the benefit of them, which could mean sacrificing views and sunlight when it’s cold.
Shutters
Shutters can also help to trap heat in. They are installed to the frame and can take various forms from exterior board and batten shutters to interior plantation shutters. On top of providing insulation, shutters can provide privacy and even security. They can however be expensive to install and are only suitable for homeowners as they are a permanent modification. Shutters also need to be closed in order to stop heat loss, which means sacrificing sunlight and a view.
Crack repair
Have you got any cracks around the corners of your window frames? These can be a hidden culprit when it comes to heat loss through windows. A good way to check if you’re losing heat through cracks is to run your hand over them and see if you can feel any draughts coming through. If you can feel cold air coming in, it’s likely that they’re causing your home to lose heat. Sealing these cracks up could help to limit heat loss significantly. A company that specialises in cracked brick wall repair can help.
Double/triple glazing
Double and triple glazing are two of the most effective ways to insulate windows. They involve adding an extra pane of glass with a layer of argon gas between. This helps to reduce heat loss without having to cover up windows. Both double glazing and triple glazing can improve security and soundproofing as well as insulation. Of course, both are permanent modifications that are only suitable for homeowners. Installing new windows is also expensive. However, you are likely to make back your money in reduced energy costs (especially with triple glazing, which is even more effective than double glazing at reducing heat loss).
