How to Install Plastic Sheeting Over Windows

Drafty windows make us uncomfortable during cold weather and really uncomfortable when the heating bill arrives. It's easy to install plastic sheeting over your windows to cut down on drafts and heating costs. The most effective way to do this is to put the plastic on the exterior. Installed this way it will stop nearly all drafts. Plastic installed on the outside of the windows appears invisible from the interior of the house.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tape measure
• Plastic sheeting for windows (available in kits)
• Ladder
• Cotton balls
• Rubbing alcohol
• Razor blade

1. Work on one window at a time. Measure dimensions of window side to side and top to bottom. Measure from the center of the wood trim as the plastic must completely cover the glass and the area where it is set into the wood trim.

2. Cut the plastic sheeting to size. Add 4 to 6 inches to the width and length of the window measurement for ease of installation.

3. Saturate a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol and wipe around wood frame of window in the area where you will place the double sided tape to attach the plastic. This will help the tape adhere to the wood and remain there until you remove it.

4. Apply double sided tape (included with window kit) to the center of the window's wood frame, in the area you cleaned with rubbing alcohol. Leave the backing on the top side of the tape for now.

5. Remove backing from tape at the top of the window. Open up plastic and place it over the tape at the top of the window, allowing an inch or so to overhang the tape. Next, do the same at the bottom of the window, then the sides. Pull the plastic taut before you attach it to the tape.

6. Use the razor blade to trim the excess plastic hanging over the tape around the edges of the window so it doesn't flap in the wind.

Tips & Warnings

• The plastic comes in window-sized pieces in the kits; purchase a kit that fits the width of your window. It's easy to trim the plastic to the correct length of your window without unfolding it to it's full width. Kits containing plastic and adhesive are available in several sizes at home improvement, hardware, and discount stores.