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How to Weatherize Windows with Plastic Film Insulation

Most homes need a little TLC before the temperature drops.

And this tutorial is going to help you keep heating bills low by adding window insulation.

Plastic film insulation kits cost 10-$20 and you’ll be able to insulate multiple windows.

One of our awesome community members also gave me a mind blowing tip that adds even more insulation value for only $5.

I’m pumped to share this tutorial because there’s nothing like a cozy home in the winter 😀

Not all of us have brand spanking new windows.

As such, we suffer from chilly drafts (and probably cold feet, haha).

One way to stop the cold air flow is to use plastic film insulation on widows.

Window Insulation Kit 1

If you’ve got old windows in the basement, the kind that are made from wood and swing open, then these tips will really come in handy.

I’ll show you how easy this is to do and one extra step you can take if the windows are really in bad shape.

Here’s your supply list

As you can see this project isn’t going to break the bank.

Although I haven’t done any official research studies I’m willing to bet you earn back the money spent in one winter season.

Learning how to weatherize windows with plastic film insulation might just be your next weekend project.

Do it before the temperature drops though and be ahead of the game 😀

Let me show you a great tip on how to double up on window insulation.

If your windows let in cold air this tip is a godsend

Debbie, thank you.

Debbie is one of our community members and she gave me a great window insulation tip.

Use bubble wrap.

This is ingenious.

Bubble wrap is plastic film with air filled pockets.

Bubble Wrap

You’ll want to add the bubble wrap to your window before using the window insulation kit.

Open the window insulation kit and take out the double sided tape.

Clean the framing of your window with a damp cloth or rubbing alcohol.

Apply one layer of double sided tape to the window frame.

Then add a second layer of double sided tape next the first layer.

Double Sided Tape

Let the double sided tape sit for 10-15 minutes.

This allows the tape to become tacky and setup properly.

Peel off the backing on the first layer of tape and apply the bubble wrap.

Remove Tape Closest to Window

I show you exactly how to do this in my video.

Add successive layers of bubble wrap and overlap each layer by about 2-3 inches.

Apply Bubble Wrap

You can trim the bubble wrap with scissors.

Use packing tape to seal the top of the bubble wrap if it starts to bend downward.

I also sealed each vertical overlap with the packing tape to make it one cohesive unit.

Seal Bubble Wrap

Using bubble wrap is such a fantastic idea by Debbie and I’m excited to use it on some of my rental homes that have older cellar windows.

Now that the bubble tape is in place you can add the plastic film insulation.

These two insulation techniques will seriously put a damper on old man winter’s party.

Adding plastic film insulation over the bubble wrap, a 1-2 punch to old man winter’s gut

Now that the bubble wrap is in place you can add the plastic film over it.

Peel off the second layer of double sided tape and unfold the plastic film.

Make sure there’s at least one inch of excess film on all sides of the tape.

Adhere the plastic film to the tape starting at the top, then the bottom and finishing off with the left & right sides.

Grab your hair dryer and work out any wrinkles in the film.

Don’t worry, I show you how to do all of this in my video tutorial. So check that out for the details and the bubble wrap explanation

What’s Next

Spray foam insulation can also be a great way to lower utility bills. Our detailed tutorial shows how to easily use spray foam around the house.

If you’re doing a bathroom remodel and need help, join one of our online courses – they’ll make your bathroom renovation much easier!

Let me know if you have any questions and I’ll do my best to help.

Thanks as always for reading, watching, and being part of our awesome community.

Cheers,

Jeff

Weatherize Windows with Plastic Film