Did you know…According to the U.S. Department of Energy, drafts can waste a lot of your energy dollars, 5% to 30% to be exact. That’s a LOT of money over the course of a winter! Using one, or a combination, of the following 5 ways to insulate your windows adds an extra layer of protection to your home by increasing the R-value of your windows thus lowering your heating bill to within your comfort zone.
#1. Weather Stripping
Eliminating drafts is a key part of winterizing your home. If your existing weather stripping is past its prime, replace it by peeling off the old weather stripping and replacing it with the new, making sure to press firmly. Best part is that weather stripping only costs a few bucks and can be found at nearly all home improvement stores. It is important to caulk inside and outside your window casing as well.
#2. Heavyweight Curtains
Winterize your home by swapping out lighter summer curtains for heavyweight drapes in the winter. Heavier fabrics like velvet or thick linen, not only look lush and rich, but also protect against drafts. Thermal insulating blackout curtains are another great option in the winter as they help to insulate your windows as well as soundproof your home. You can find heavyweight curtains in a wide variety of styles and colors.
#3. Cellular Shades
Also known as honeycomb shades, cellular shades are made with folds of fabric that create multiple layers of air pockets to insulate windows, while still letting light infuse your home. Cellular shades come in a variety of neutral colors and styles, including cordless lift and top-down/bottom-up, to go with just about any décor. Best of all, cellular shades have varying levels of insulating capabilities to ensure energy efficiency.
#4. Layered Window Treatments
To dress your windows appropriately for winter, bundle them up in insulating shades (i.e., cellular, solar, or roman all make good choices) with thick, lush curtains hung on top. Functionally, the shades will block even more cold outdoor air, while aesthetically they will make any room feel more finished.
#5. Door Snakes
A door snake, also known as a door draft stopper, will help take the bite out of drafts. The job of the snake is to keep air from whooshing under your door and as a result, increasing your energy consumption. The great thing about door snakes is that not only are they inexpensive, but most do-it-yourselfers can make them themselves, using a variety of materials. A quick search on Pinterest will provide all the instruction you need.