"Films are okay in a pinch, but honestly, they're more hassle than they're worth IMO..."
Yeah, totally get what you're saying about the films. I've tried them before, and while they do help a bit, they're a pain to install neatly and always seem to peel or bubble up after a while. Plus, they make the windows look kinda cheap, IMO.
Storm windows are definitely the best long-term solution if you can swing it. I installed some low-E storm windows last year, and the difference was pretty impressive—both comfort-wise and on our heating bills. But yeah, they're not exactly cheap or easy to put in, especially if you've got older windows that aren't perfectly square (ask me how I know...).
One other thing I'd add is checking your window hardware. Sometimes just tightening hinges or latches can improve the seal a bit. Also, if you've got older wooden frames, consider reglazing them. It's a bit tedious but can really help seal out drafts.
Anyway, big windows are awesome for natural light, but man, they can be a headache in winter...
Yeah, films can look kinda tacky—especially if you rush the install job (been there...). Storm windows made a huge difference for us too, but reglazing was honestly the sleeper hit.
"It's a bit tedious but can really help seal out drafts."
Did you use regular glazing putty or one of those newer compounds?
I went with the traditional glazing putty myself—mostly because I had some leftover from a previous project. It does take patience, especially waiting for it to cure properly, but the results were solid. I've heard good things about the newer compounds though; supposedly they're easier to handle and set faster. Might give them a shot next time around, just to compare...
"It does take patience, especially waiting for it to cure properly, but the results were solid."
I definitely hear you on the patience factor. Last summer, I redid some older windows using traditional glazing putty myself—mainly because I wanted to match the original look of my house. The curing time was a real test of patience...especially with humidity levels fluctuating. Have you noticed any difference in how well the traditional putty holds up long-term versus the newer compounds? I've been reading mixed reviews about durability and weather resistance, especially in colder climates.
Also, slightly off-topic but related: has anyone here experimented with low-E films or coatings on their big windows? I'm curious if adding those has made a noticeable impact on your heating bills. I've been considering it myself, but I'm not sure if the upfront cost is justified by the energy savings over time.
I totally get the patience thing—did some reglazing myself a couple years back, and yeah, humidity made it drag on forever. Honestly though, traditional putty seems to hold up pretty well if you prep right. My neighbor used newer compounds and had cracking issues after just one winter. About low-E films, I added some to our south-facing windows last fall...noticed a decent drop in heating bills, but nothing dramatic yet. Might take a few seasons to really tell.
Yeah, humidity can really drag out glazing projects—been there myself. Traditional putty is definitely reliable if you prep right, but I've seen good results with some newer compounds too. Usually cracking happens when the surface isn't clean enough or the compound dries too fast. Maybe your neighbor rushed it a bit?
As for low-E films, they're helpful, but don't expect miracles overnight. I've installed them for clients who noticed gradual improvements over a couple of seasons. Big windows are always a trade-off: great views and natural light versus higher heating bills. If you're serious about efficiency, combining low-E films with insulated curtains or cellular shades can make a noticeable difference without sacrificing aesthetics.
One client had massive south-facing windows—beautiful, but brutal on heating costs. After adding films and thermal curtains, they saw a steady drop in their bills. Not huge immediately, but definitely worthwhile over time...plus, they didn't lose that awesome view.