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Frugal Fixes for Drafty Windows

By Nadine Cheung Posted 10:00AM 02/07/13 Savings Experiment |
Savings Experiment: Cheap Fixes for Drafty Windows and Doors

Would you use window film to save money?

Did you find our video on drafty windows helpful?

Baby, it's cold outside, and if you have drafty windows and doors, you're losing money. Here's how to keep the heat in your home and your cash in your wallet.

Drafty windows can allow up to 25 percent of a home's heat to escape. One low-cost solution is to invest in energy-efficient curtains, which are available at any big box retailer. They can help lower heat loss by 25 percent, but depending on how many windows you have their $12 price tags can start to add up.

A more cost-effective solution is window film. It's not only easy to install, but it creates a seal that can reduce heat loss by 50 percent. Some consumers have reported a savings of $25 on their heating bill, and at $1 to $2 per film, it's a much cheaper option than energy-efficient curtains.

drafty windowsIf you need a fast fix, bubble wrap is an effective substitute for window film. Place a piece with the bubble side against the glass, and use double-sided tape to keep it secure. It's not pretty, but it's great if you need a quick solution.

As far as drafty doors go, weather stripping is relatively inexpensive. However, a DIY door snake provides plenty of function for a fraction of the price. All you need is a pair of scissors, some fabric, a sewing kit, a funnel and some filling, like rice or kitty litter. The project does take time, but if you have it, this can be a fun weekend project for you and your family.

So, when it comes to keeping your home warm, don't let your money escape you. Try one of these easy and economical window and door solutions and you'll stay toasty all winter.
Tagged: diy door snake, drafty doors, drafty windows, energy efficient curtains, for the home, save on heating bill, Savings Experiment, SavingsExperiment, weather stripping, window film

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ladywindsor1

I replaced my windows. I could not believe the difference in energy bills. Windows are expensive, but to have a home with no drafts and lower bills, it's worth it

March 07 2013 at 3:05 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
yocoty

This window film is nasty to look at on a window. I have only seen it used on slum lord's rentals or those too cheap to fix it correctly. You get what you pay for.

March 06 2013 at 9:17 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
sandralee9023

do not use this stuff it will damage your woodwork cant take of the tape residue on both painted and stained woodwork terrible stuff came out in the 80 "s used one season messy and sticky mess

March 06 2013 at 1:12 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
plzr56

Jeanne? Look what you said lol If cold leaks in, heat CAN leak out It works both ways. Replacement windows are "heat retentive", and on the new window stickers, which i have throught my home, that leads towards your home being "airtight", ergo meaning that "heatloss" is the biggest problem.

February 26 2013 at 3:51 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Jeanne

Heat does not leak out of windows, Cold leaks in. Check it out if you don\'t believe it. It\'s the same principle as stopping the draft from a leakey door.

February 26 2013 at 9:49 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
bdgrizcp

How does window film fix drafty windows? Usually the leaks occur because cold weather shrinkage allows air to get through the frames. A quick fix door snake only requires half a pair of leggings, some filler and two ribbons. I think you can figure out the rest. The best solution is storm windows and doors.

February 26 2013 at 9:41 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
virginia

only way i can lower home heating costs is to turn off the heat.i keep it at 68 a new "energy efficient" home and my bills are as high as the old house that burned that was 35 yrs old. same sq footage,actually less windows,better insulation.
they keep raising the gas and electric., so of course i pay more.only difference is i have laminate floors in most of the rooms now,except the bedrooms whixch have carpet .
im always freezing.

February 15 2013 at 11:49 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
arenadood

I hate to say it but Homes need a small air leak so you will not be breathing the same old stale air all the time.

February 14 2013 at 5:43 PM Report abuse +2 rate up rate down Reply
Michael

I can make a door snake out of a quality rolled up towel and two pieces of duct tape or rubber bands to secure it rolled. In a pinch, a pile of clothes will work and its free.

February 14 2013 at 3:03 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Judann

first of you can't see out an you can't open your windows .If you have small dogs or cats when you are gone they will destroy them . get some old time cocking.An on a dry day cover the out side of your windows.That way if you need to open them you can .An just put more on after words.DU

February 14 2013 at 2:42 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply

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