
Using cling wrap to insulate windows is a simple and effective way to keep your home warm and cozy. You can cover your windows with a layer of cling wrap to prevent heat from escaping.
This method is especially useful for older homes with single-pane windows, which tend to lose heat quickly. You can also use cling wrap on windows that are not drafty, but still benefit from a bit of extra insulation.
By covering your windows with cling wrap, you can reduce heat loss by up to 30%. This can make a big difference in your energy bills, especially during the colder months.
Benefits and Effectiveness
Cling wrap window insulation can be a surprisingly effective solution for reducing heat loss through your windows. It's not the most effective solution, but it can offer a slight improvement in insulation for single-pane windows.
You can use cling wrap to seal invisible small gaps in the window panes, which can help prevent the escape of air and heat. This is especially effective when the cling wrap is tightly attached.
Bubble wrap is often preferred by many energy-conscious individuals because it's made from a slightly thicker plastic material, which provides better insulation. The embedded bubbles add an extra layer of trapped air that further enhances its insulating properties.
However, cling wrap is more readily available and generally cheaper than bubble wrap. You might even have a surplus at your disposal, or it's easily procurable from your local grocery store or online.
Plastic film can be used to cover a crack in a double or triple-glazed window, but it's less likely to have a significant impact unless used for this purpose.
Implementing Window Insulation
Implementing window insulation is a simple and effective way to reduce energy costs and keep your living space comfortable. In hot climates, windows can be the main conductors of heat from the exterior environment into your interior spaces.
You can start by using materials already available in your living space, such as plastic film, commonly referred to as Saran wrap. This can serve the same purpose as purchasing a window insulation kit, and it's not necessary to buy the branded variety. Any plastic film can work as an insulator.
To implement window insulation with plastic film, you can follow two primary methods: Applying the plastic film directly to the window using double-sided tape or single-sided tape.Using a hairdryer to shrink the plastic film so that it fits more snuggly around the window.
How Window Works
Window wraps are a simple and effective way to reduce heat loss and make your home feel warmer during the winter.
You can purchase a kit at just about any local hardware or home improvement store, and they're often relatively inexpensive.
Plastic window wraps work by adding another layer of insulation, stopping cold air from entering through unseen gaps in your window framework.
You can install window wraps yourself, and you often don't need too many tools to do so.
Here's a list of the tools you might need:
- Scissors
- Utility knife
- Tape measure
- Hair dryer
- Cotton balls
- Rubbing alcohol
- Double-sided or magnetic tape
By sealing air leaks around the window, you can prevent heat from escaping and make your home feel warmer and more energy-efficient.
Implementing Window Insulation
Implementing window insulation can be a great strategy to reduce energy costs and keep your living space comfortable. Window insulation kits are available, but you can also use materials like plastic film, commonly referred to as Saran wrap, which is a cost-effective option.
In fact, any plastic film can work as an insulator, so you don't need to purchase a branded variety. This makes it an attractive option for those on a budget. The clear plastic sheet reduces heat loss by adding another layer of insulation.
To install plastic film, start by cleaning the window and frame. Then, apply double-sided tape around the frame to make applying the plastic film easier. Unroll the film and place a strip along the width of the window, overlapping the edges to ensure a tight seal.
You can also use a hairdryer to shrink the plastic film and make it fit more snugly around the window. This can be a helpful trick, especially if you're working with a large window. The plastic film can be cut to size using scissors or a utility knife.
Here are some common tools you may need to install plastic window wraps:
- Scissors
- Utility knife
- Tape measure
- Hair dryer
- Cotton balls
- Rubbing alcohol
- Double-sided or magnetic tape
Keep in mind that plastic window wraps aren't a long-term solution and may need to be replaced over time. However, they can provide a temporary fix and help reduce energy costs in the short term.
Drawbacks and Considerations
Cling wrap window insulation isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Its effectiveness is limited to single-glazed windows, and even then, it only provides marginal insulation performance.
The installation process can be tricky, and some people may find it challenging, even with the freezing trick. This can lead to frustration and wasted time.
Some users may also be put off by the fact that the film will stick to itself once removed, making it difficult to reuse.
Here are some key drawbacks to consider:
- It’s only effective on single-glazed windows.
- The installation process can be somewhat challenging.
- Installing it bubble-free can be time-consuming.
- Once removed, the film will stick to itself and can’t be reused.
Drawbacks:
Installing plastic window wraps can be a bit of a challenge, even with the freezing trick, which can make the installation process somewhat difficult.
The insulation performance of plastic window wraps is marginal, especially on single-glazed windows, and other methods can lead to greater energy bill savings.
If you have pets or children, you'll need to take extra caution when installing plastic window wraps, as they can easily damage the wrap or get tangled in it.
Installing the wrap bubble-free for aesthetic purposes can be a time-consuming process.
Here are some of the key drawbacks to consider:
- It’s only effective on single-glazed windows;
- The installation process can be challenging;
- Installing it bubble-free can be time-consuming;
- Once removed, the film will stick to itself and can’t be reused.
Do I Really Need It?

If you're considering plastic window wrap, it's essential to determine whether you really need it. Not every home benefits from it, especially if you have brand-new windows with minimal gaps.
You might not notice air leaks until your fingers and toes tell you, so it's worth doing a few simple tests to check for them. One way to do this is with the paper test: shut the window over a sheet of paper and see if you can easily move it back and forth. If you can, that's a sign that outdoor air is likely entering your home.
Another test is the smoke test: light a stick of incense and hold it near the sash or seams of the window. If the smoke is forced or sucked in a particular direction, you likely have a leak.
Here are some common problems that can indicate you need plastic window wrap:
- Windows that rattle
- Visible gaps around window trim
- Noticeable dust or pests entering through holes or gaps in and around windows
- Outside odors entering the home
- Peeling paint around the frame of the window
Frequently Asked Questions
Does bubble wrap really work to insulate windows?
Yes, bubble wrap can improve window insulation, reducing heat loss by 50% on single-glazed windows and cutting utility bills nearly in half. This simple, cost-effective solution is a great starting point for homeowners looking to boost energy efficiency.
Does cling film on windows work?
Yes, cling film on windows works effectively to enhance privacy, control light, and improve energy efficiency without damaging surfaces. It's a popular choice for renters and homeowners due to its easy installation and removal.
Sources
- https://www.ukenergywatch.org/saran-wrap-window-insulation/
- https://www.housedigest.com/1323284/plastic-wrap-hack-for-fixing-drafty-windows/
- https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome/seal_insulate/plastic-over-windows
- https://diy.stackexchange.com/questions/206936/will-window-shrink-wrap-make-a-noticeable-difference-in-heating-bill-in-house-wi
- https://www.2-10.com/blog/do-plastic-window-wraps-lower-heating-costs/
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