I've had decent success with DIY acrylic inserts. They're sturdier than film and hold up better against curious pets. Just measure carefully, cut acrylic sheets to size, and use weatherstripping for a snug fit. Not perfect insulation-wise, but definitely pet-resistant and budget-friendly.
Acrylic inserts are solid for pets, but yeah, insulation-wise...meh. If you're feeling ambitious, double-layer them with an air gap—instant DIY double glazing. Just don't lose your sanity measuring twice and cutting once (or thrice, in my case).
Double-layering acrylic with an air gap definitely helps, but honestly, I've found that sealing the edges properly makes a bigger difference than you'd think. A couple winters ago, I went nuts trying to DIY double-glaze my basement windows—got the layers perfect, but overlooked sealing the edges. Draft city. Once I caulked everything tight, it was night and day. Curious if anyone's tried adding reflective film between layers...does it noticeably boost insulation, or is it just marketing hype?
"Curious if anyone's tried adding reflective film between layers...does it noticeably boost insulation, or is it just marketing hype?"
Tried reflective film on a client's sunroom last winter—noticed a slight improvement in heat retention, but honestly, proper sealing and air gaps made way more difference. Film helps, but don't expect miracles.
Film helps, but don't expect miracles.
I've wondered about reflective film myself—thanks for sharing your experience. Sounds like it helps a bit, but maybe isn't the game changer some ads make it out to be? Guess I'll focus on sealing drafts first...
Yeah, sealing drafts is definitely the right first step. I've tried reflective film myself, and while it does help a little with heat loss, it's not exactly transformative. Honestly, I found weatherstripping and caulking around windows made a bigger difference overall—and they're pretty budget-friendly too. Good luck with your project... small improvements really do add up over time.
Reflective film can be hit or miss, agreed. I've seen clients try it with mixed results—depends a lot on window orientation and local climate. Weatherstripping and caulking are solid first steps, but if you're still losing heat, consider interior storm windows. Installed some at my place last winter; they're affordable, easy to DIY, and made a noticeable difference in comfort without breaking the bank. Worth looking into if drafts persist.
Interior storm windows are definitely underrated. I've recommended them to a few clients who were hesitant about the cost of full replacements, and they've generally been happy with the results. One thing I've wondered about though—have you noticed any issues with condensation buildup between the storm window and the original glass? I've heard mixed experiences on that front, especially in colder climates...
I've installed interior storms in my own place (Midwest winters, ugh) and condensation was definitely a thing at first. But once I sealed up the original windows better and made sure the storm window fit snugly, it pretty much disappeared. Proper sealing seems key here...
Did sealing around the original windows make a noticeable difference in drafts too, or just condensation? I'm thinking of trying interior storms myself—our living room gets chilly fast, and new windows aren't in the budget right now...