GET YOUR WINDOWS READY FOR WINTER
If you suffer from draughty windows in the winter, you’ll be looking for ways to keep the heat in. Drafty windows can lead to higher energy consumption and vastly higher heating bills. If you’re not yet able to replace your windows, you may want to consider these five tips for winter-proofing your windows.
- Window insulation film
Window insulation film is easy to find in any hardware store or online. The kits include a plastic shrink film to apply to the indoor window frame with double sided tape, before you heat it with a hair dryer to remove any wrinkles and shrink the film. It’s a cheap and effective method, but your windows will have a cloudy and shrink-wrapped look.
- Rubber weather sealing
Like insulation film, rubber weather sealing is easy to buy online or in hardware stores. All you need to do is cut long strips to fit the dimensions of your windows and then peel and stick the sealing to the frame to close off any gaps, eliminating drafts. Rubber sealing is a cheap and effective solution that has a minimal impact on the look of your windows. You can, however, potentially damage paint or leave a sticky residue when removing the seal.
- Draft snakes
Draft snakes are simply fabric tubes that you place under a window sill or door to prevent drafts. You can buy them in a variety of great designs, or you can make your own to fit your windows by sewing a tube of fabric and filling it with dry rice. Whilst this offers you a cheap and easy crafting project, it only prevents a draft coming from the window sill, still letting out plenty of heating through the rest of the frame and the window itself.
- Cellular shades or blinds
If you want natural light in your home whilst receiving insulation, you may wish to try cellular shades. You can order them to custom-fit your windows in home and design shops. You can also have them made for doorways. The only problem is that they don’t insulate as well as other options, such as curtains.
- Layered curtains
The use of multiple, heavy fabrics can provide a decent amount of insulation for your windows, however you will end up blocking out the majority of natural light. Whilst layering curtains can make your living room interior design look amazing, you won’t be able to see it due to the lack of light. Buying heavy curtains to layer is quite expensive, too.
The best investment you can make this winter to save on your heating costs is a new set of windows. To find out more about your options, or to get a free quote, contact us today or call 0800 046 3434.