Those pillow stoppers are definitely handy for a quick fix, especially if you're dealing with pets or kids who mess with the plastic film. I've used them myself and found they're great for doors you open often. If you ever want to step it up a notch without breaking the bank, you could try weatherstripping tape—it's pretty easy to apply around window frames and makes a noticeable difference. But yeah, eventually you'll probably wanna tackle the root issue with proper sealing...but no rush, small steps count too.
I've had decent luck with weatherstripping tape too, especially on older windows. Last winter, I was working on a client's house—beautiful old place, but the windows were drafty as heck. We put some foam weatherstripping around the frames, and it made a noticeable difference right away. It's not a permanent fix, obviously, but it'll buy you some comfort until you're ready to tackle the bigger sealing job. Just make sure to clean the surfaces first or it won't stick properly...learned that one the hard way.
Weatherstripping tape can definitely help, but another quick fix I've had luck with is window film kits. They're pretty affordable and easy to put up—just stick them around the frame, hit 'em with a hairdryer, and they shrink tight. Won't win any beauty contests, but they really cut down on drafts temporarily. Just be careful not to overheat or you'll end up melting a hole (ask me how I know...).
Haha, been there with the melted film...nothing like that sinking feeling when you realize you've gone too far. Window film definitely works wonders temporarily. Another quick trick I've used is stuffing some rolled-up towels or blankets along the sill—doesn't look great either, but hey, desperate times call for desperate measures, right? Just don't forget they're there when guests come over, or you'll get some funny looks.
I've tried the towel trick myself, but honestly, it's more of a moisture magnet than anything else—ended up dealing with mold issues later. A better temporary fix might be foam weatherstripping; it's inexpensive, easy to install, and doesn't look half bad either.
"I've tried the towel trick myself, but honestly, it's more of a moisture magnet than anything else—ended up dealing with mold issues later."
Yeah, totally agree with you there. Towels might seem handy at first, but they're just asking for trouble in the long run. Foam weatherstripping is definitely the way to go for a quick fix. Another thing I've found helpful is shrink-wrap window insulation kits. They're pretty cheap and easy to apply with a hairdryer. Not the prettiest solution, but they do the job surprisingly well until you can sort out something more permanent.
Shrink-wrap kits are decent, but honestly, I've had mixed results. Last winter, my cat decided it was a new scratching post... total disaster. I've found draft stoppers (those fabric tubes filled with rice or beans) surprisingly effective and mold-free. Worth a shot maybe?
Draft stoppers have worked pretty well for me too—especially in rooms I don't use all the time. Another trick I've found helpful is weatherstripping tape. It's cheap and easy to apply: just peel, stick along the window edges, and press firmly. Lasted me a couple winters without issues. Curious though, anyone tried thermal curtains? Wondering if they're worth the investment or just hype...
Thermal curtains actually made a noticeable difference for me. A few quick thoughts:
- Definitely reduced drafts around my older windows—especially noticeable on windy nights.
- Helped keep the room warmer overall, so I could lower the thermostat a bit.
- Bonus: they block out streetlights and noise, which was an unexpected plus.
But they're not miracle workers. If your windows have serious gaps or poor insulation, curtains alone won't fix that completely. I still needed weatherstripping tape on the worst offenders. Also, quality matters—cheaper curtains didn't seem to do much, but mid-range ones were pretty effective.
Overall, I'd say they're worth trying if you're already doing draft stoppers and weatherstripping. Just don't expect them to solve everything on their own...
Thermal curtains helped me too, but honestly, the biggest difference came from using window film kits. I was skeptical at first—plastic sheets taped around the window frame didn't exactly scream "effective" to me—but curiosity got the better of me, and I gave it a shot. Surprisingly, they worked great. The plastic creates this insulating air pocket that really cuts down on drafts, even on my old, rattly windows.
Sure, they're not the prettiest solution (and installation can be a bit fiddly), but once they're up, you barely notice them. Plus, they're pretty affordable compared to replacing windows entirely. I still use thermal curtains for extra insulation and noise reduction, but the combo of curtains and window film has been a game changer for me.
If you're already doing weatherstripping and draft stoppers, adding window film might just be the missing piece...worth considering anyway.