How to Save Energy: Install shrink-film inside windows
If you have drafty windows, or if you have no storm-windows, you can still save energy by installing shrink-film inside the windows. And, if installed correctly, the shrink-film is barely even noticeable! Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Assessing the situation:
Most likely, you already know if any of your windows are drafty. When you go near them during a cold day, you can feel cold air; not that it is blowing in all that strongly, just that it seems to be colder near the windows than other areas. -
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The analysis:
Many homes, even some of the newer ones, have drafty windows; whether the draftiness is from poor insulation and sealants around the window frame, or from loose window panes, or from lack of storm-windows is determined by thorough inspection, and, in some cases, removal of moldings and such, to examine the wall for proper insulation.For the purpose of this article, we'll assume that it is not possible or feasible to start taking things apart. Instead, we will concentrate on simply doing what we can to help save some energy at drafty windows, by installing some shrink-film inside.
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Preparation:
It is a good idea to wash the insides of the windows before installing shrink-film, since you will not be able to afterward; at least not until warmer weather comes and you can remove the shrink-film. While washing the windows, you should also clean the molding around the window, since that is where you will be applying your two-faced tape for the shrink-film application. -
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Pick up materials and tools:
As noted, you only need a hair dryer (or heat-gun) and enough window-shrink-film kits to cover the windows you wish to seal up. These are available at most home centers, hardware stores, and many department stores.If you already have a hair dryer, you will not need to purchase a new one, of course. If not, you can pick one up at your favorite department store, drug store, or some home centers (though they might call them heat-guns, and sometimes those are a bit more 'industrial-strength'). You do not need anything fancy; as long as it generates heat and has a fan to blow that heat onto the shrink-film.
The shrink-film kits come with two-faced tape for installing the film; however, some shrink-film packages that are not kits might not. Be sure to read the label to determine that you are getting the whole kits. -
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Cutting the shrink-film to size:
Open the shrink-film kit package and take out the sheets of plastic. Unfold one of the sheets, and hold it up against the window frame, with one corner at one of the top corners of the frame.
Mark the appropriate size needed to cover the entire window, including part of the window frame; in order to ensure the actual window is sealed off behind the film.
Note: At the bottom window-sill, you should allow about a half-inch of the film to fold flat onto the sill.
Cut the sheet to the markings made, and set it aside. -
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Installing the two-faced tape:
Take the roll of two-faced tape from the shrink-film kit, and apply a strip on each side, top and sill. Be sure your tape is placed so the size of the sheet will fit onto it. -
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Applying the film:
First, remove the backing from the two-faced tape, to expose the second sticky-side.
Hint: Sometimes, it is easier to remove only a portion of the backing at first, so you can work on placing the shrink-film against the window without it sticking in places you don't want it to stick just yet.
Hold the piece of shrink-film you cut a few inches away from the window frame, and carefully place a corner of it at one of the top corners; then work your way around the entire frame, stretching (gently) the sheet across and down as you stick it to the two-faced tape. -
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Shrinking the film:
After the shrink-film is securely attached to the two-faced tape; and it is relatively taut, plug in your hair dryer or heat-gun, and begin blowing warm air onto the film.
Note: For best results, use the high settings on the hair dryer, and hold the dryer approximately three or four inches away from the film. Do not hold it in one spot for too long, as the plastic can melt too much, which can create holes. Instead, move the dryer back and forth; across, up and down, and diagonally.
Continue this until the shrink-film is stretched tight. You will notice the film becoming clearer and tighter, as you apply the heat all around. -
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Finishing touches:
If your sheet was cut oversized, you might have excess plastic beyond the two-faced tape. Carefully cut that away with a razor knife or scissors.See the link below for Save Energy All Around Your Home, for more energy saving tips.
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Tips & Warnings
Sometimes it helps to have assistance, since trying to stretch and stick the film at the same time can be frustrating.
Follow manufacturers' guidelines and instructions for handling, using, installing, maintaining or operating tools and equipment and products.
Resources
- Photo Credit w1z111-C.R.H.
