Does A Plastic Sheet On A Window Actually Work

When you re dealing with old drafty windows you essentially have two options.

Does a plastic sheet on a window actually work.

Applying plastic over windows project this page details how to install shrink to fit plastic wrap over existing windows. Yes but mostly for windows that are old or are in bad condition. Replace them or seal them with insulating window film a k a. The main purpose of window plastic is to prevent outside drafts from getting into your home and keepheated and cooled air inside.

Rather it is the trapped air between the window and the plastic sheet which adds an insulating layer much like an extra pane of glass. The use of plastic heat shrink window coverings is an easy effective and inexpensive window option. This kit by 3m a leader in consumer products insulates up to five windows and the company claims it lowers heating costs and saves energy. I also discovered something bad though.

I just got out of the shower now and it was great first time in my life i didn t freeze my ass off. In fact they recommend it in their energy saving tips. Sunlight on the roof and coming through windows is a far bigger issue than heat exchange in the summer 45 55 of the cooling load in air conditioned homes and window plastic won t help with that. But is that true.

Ok yeh they def do work thanks guys for all the confirmation. Yes plastic window film kits are often installed with considerably larger spacing but they are also commonly installed on less than ideal windows where they stop actual drafts. If you have old windows yes plastic will help. Putting plastic film over a window is.

Sandy shoaf ipl communications administrator recommends purchasing window film and a window insulation kit from a hardware store. Instead of buying the plastic window kits you might want to try getting a roll of heavy plastic and stapling it on around the windows. According to indianapolis power light company it does. But don t just duct tape plastic trash bags around your windows and call it a job well done.

The sheet of plastic itself isn t particularly insulating. It will help stop air leaks but you can do that with cheap caulk and weatherstripping without sacrificing the ability to open the windows. If installed well using plastic heat shrink films can provide three key areas of benefit. The problem lies when it s used as a supplement for functioning windows.

In theory it sounds like a great idea the plastic works as another layer for your windows to improve your home s energy efficiency. The optimal size of air gap is between and of an inch.