Totally get where you're coming from—I was doubtful too at first. But once you figure out the hairdryer trick (slowly heat from edges inward, not too close), it's oddly satisfying watching it tighten up. Way better than drafty windows all winter...
"Totally get where you're coming from—I was doubtful too at first. But once you figure out the hairdryer trick (slowly heat from edges inward, not too close), it's oddly satisfying watching it tighten up. Way better than drafty windows all winter..."
I've tried the hairdryer method myself, and yeah, it does work pretty well in a pinch. But honestly, I found it to be more of a temporary fix than anything else. After a few weeks of temperature swings and wind gusts, the plastic started loosening again around the edges. Maybe I didn't seal it perfectly, but it felt like I was constantly redoing it.
If you're looking for something a bit more robust without going full-on window replacement mode, you might want to consider weatherstripping tape or foam strips instead. Here's what worked for me:
1. First, clean the window frame thoroughly—dust and grime can really mess with adhesion.
2. Measure carefully and cut your weatherstripping to size (I prefer foam strips because they're forgiving if your measurements aren't perfect).
3. Peel off the backing slowly as you press firmly along the edges of your window frame.
4. Close and latch your window tightly to compress the foam slightly—this helps create a snug seal.
This method has held up surprisingly well for me through multiple winters now, even with some pretty harsh weather conditions. Plus, it's less hassle than wrestling with plastic film every year.
Don't get me wrong—the hairdryer trick is definitely satisfying in that shrink-wrap kind of way... but if you're after something longer-lasting and less fiddly over time, weatherstripping might be worth a shot.
Good tips on the foam strips—definitely a solid option if you're looking for something a bit sturdier. Have you checked if the draft is mostly coming from the edges or maybe from gaps around the window sash itself? Sometimes the issue is actually worn-out caulking or glazing putty. Quick fix: a bead of silicone caulk around the frame can make a surprising difference... might save you from redoing plastic film every month or two.
Yeah, silicone caulk is a lifesaver. I had a similar issue last winter—thought it was just the edges, but turns out the glazing putty was ancient and crumbling away. Ended up scraping it all out and redoing it, which honestly wasn't as bad as it sounds. Messy, sure, but oddly satisfying in a weird DIY kinda way.
Also, if you're feeling extra lazy (like me most weekends), rope caulk is another quick fix. It's basically like play-doh for grown-ups—just press it into any gaps and you're good to go. Not as permanent as silicone, but super easy to remove later if you decide to do a proper fix when the weather warms up.
And yeah, plastic film is great in a pinch, but man... peeling that stuff off every spring is like unwrapping the world's least exciting present.
"rope caulk is another quick fix. It's basically like play-doh for grown-ups"
Haha, that's a pretty accurate description. Rope caulk's decent for temporary fixes, but honestly, it's more of a band-aid than anything else. Seen plenty of cases where people rely on it too long and end up with moisture trapped behind it—then you're dealing with mold or rot down the line. Ever checked your weatherstripping? Sometimes that's the sneaky culprit letting cold air in...
Rope caulk definitely has its place, especially if you're pressed for time or just need a quick fix to get through a cold snap. I've used it myself in a pinch—like when we had that brutal cold wave a couple winters back and I realized one of our bedroom windows was letting in a draft strong enough to flutter the curtains. It did the job temporarily, but I agree, it's not something you'd want to rely on long-term.
Weatherstripping is usually my go-to recommendation as well. It's surprising how quickly it can deteriorate without you noticing. A few years ago, I spent days trying to figure out why our living room felt so chilly, only to discover the weatherstripping had hardened and cracked along the bottom edge of the window frame. Replacing it made a noticeable difference almost immediately.
Another thing worth checking is the window latch itself. Sometimes the window isn't fully sealing because the latch mechanism is worn or slightly misaligned. I've had luck simply tightening screws or adjusting the latch position slightly—takes maybe ten minutes and can really improve the seal.
But yeah, rope caulk is handy stuff—just don't forget about it once spring rolls around. I've seen neighbors leave it on way too long, and when they finally peeled it off, the paint came with it. Not fun.
Has anyone tried those window insulation film kits—the ones you shrink with a hairdryer? I've heard mixed things... do they actually help much, or is it more hassle than it's worth?
"Has anyone tried those window insulation film kits—the ones you shrink with a hairdryer? I've heard mixed things... do they actually help much, or is it more hassle than it's worth?"
I've installed quite a few of these kits over the years, and while they can help reduce drafts temporarily, they're not always as effective as advertised. The main issue is durability—over time, especially in high-traffic areas or homes with pets, the film tends to tear or loosen. If you're looking for something more reliable, consider weatherstripping or even removable interior storm windows. They might cost a bit more upfront but usually provide better insulation and fewer headaches in the long run.
"The main issue is durability—over time, especially in high-traffic areas or homes with pets, the film tends to tear or loosen."
I get what you're saying about durability, but honestly, I've had pretty good luck with these kits. Maybe it depends on the brand or how carefully you install them? I put some up last winter in our guest room (which is notoriously drafty), and they held up surprisingly well. Granted, we don't have pets clawing at windows or kids poking holes in things, so that might be part of it.
One thing I'd add is that installation technique really matters. If you rush through it or don't clean the window frame thoroughly beforehand, you're definitely going to have issues with the film peeling away. Also, using a decent hairdryer and taking your time to shrink the film evenly makes a huge difference. When I first tried one years ago, I rushed it and ended up with wrinkles and loose edges everywhere—total disaster. But since then, I've learned patience pays off.
That said, I totally agree weatherstripping is a more permanent solution if you're dealing with serious drafts. But if you're renting or just need something quick and budget-friendly for a season or two, the film kits can be worth a shot. Another trick I've used is combining the film with heavier curtains or thermal blinds—kind of a double-layer approach. It worked wonders for our living room windows last year.
I haven't tried removable interior storm windows yet... sounds interesting though. Are they easy enough to install yourself, or do you usually need someone to come out and measure everything precisely? Seems like that might be a bit more involved than just slapping up some plastic film on a Saturday afternoon...
I've had mixed results myself. Tried film kits in the kitchen and they lasted fine, but in the living room—where my dog hangs out—they didn't stand a chance. Ended up switching to thermal curtains there, which worked way better.