Cover older windows with plastic during the winter season.
Homes with older windows tend to be less efficient when it comes to heating during the winter season. The heat created by the home's HVAC system can escape through small cracks around older windows. Cold air drafts also become more apparent as the weather gets cooler. Plastic window film kits available on the market help increase the efficiency of older windows by blocking cold air drafts, and help keep the heat inside the home.
Instructions
1. Clean all the window trim around the windows with regular dish soap and water. Let the window trim surfaces dry thoroughly. Cleaning the windows will promote better adhesion between the double-sided tape and the trim.
2. Measure the outside perimeter of the trim to determine the appropriate window film size. Use scissors to cut out window film needed to cover the window and set the sheet to the side.
3. Cut off strips of double-sided tape according to the size needed for each window trim piece. Remove the protective paper covering one side of the tape and apply each strip to each of the four sides of the trim, forming a square. Make sure there are no gaps between the connecting pieces of tape.
4. Remove the remaining protective paper from all four pieces of double-sided tape, then spread the cut plastic evenly over the window. When the film is spread tightly and evenly over the window, use your hands to firmly press the film to the double-sided tape. Make sure there are no creases where the plastic meets the double-sided tape.
5. Plug in the hair dryer and apply even heat to the entire piece of plastic until it shrinks tightly over the window. Do not overheat the plastic, because it may become too thin and holes will form, ruining the plastic sheet.
6. Cut off the excess plastic hanging from the trim of the window with a utility knife. Pull the excess plastic away from the trim while cutting it, to avoid damaging the trim with the utility knife. Cover any remaining widows in the home using the same methods.
