Bubble wrap is often used to insulate greenhouse windows in the winter, but it also seems to work fine for windows in the house. You can use it with or without regular or insulating window shades. It also works for windows of irregular shape, which can be difficult to find insulating shades for.
Adding a layer of bubble wrap to your windows can create an extra layer of energy-saving protection all year long, saving you a small fortune in heating and cooling bills that could later be re-invested in those new windows you've been dreaming of.
For an 7000 deg-day climate (northern US), and single glazed windows, the bubble wrap increases the R value from about R1 to about R2. This cuts the heat loss from the window in half. The bubble wrap cost about $0.30 per sqft, so the payback period is about 2 months -- not too bad!
Foil-faced bubble wrap is commonly used for ducts, since it's fairly easy to wrap around them. However, to take advantage of the radiant barrier, you have to create about 2″ of air-space between the foil and the duct, which is extremely difficult to do, especially on a curved surface.
Plastic and blankets are indeed two of the best cheap & fast methods to improve window insulation. Another thing in this vein is sticking bubblewrap sheets to the glass.
The insulating properties of bubble wrap help maintain stable indoor temperatures, reducing the reliance on heating and cooling systems. This translates to substantial energy savings and lower utility bills over time. Bubble wrap insulation offers a remarkable level of versatility and ease of installation.
“Whether you choose to use bubble wrap packaging or foam packaging, both products offer superb protection. Bubble offers ease of use, economy, and effective protection, while foam offers characteristics that protect delicate surfaces and polished finishes, due to its ability to reduce scuffing, rubbing and marking.
However, from dealing with many customers the poor quality bubble foil insulation usually starts to deteriorate/fail between 7-12 years. Even if only a few small areas fail, this will allow condensation to form on the metal and drip inside the building.
Plastic window film covers can reduce drafts and make your home feel warmer during the winter. They are also a relatively inexpensive way to reduce condensation buildup and lower energy bills. Window wraps can also seal air leaks around the window, when those leaks extend over woodwork.
Simple! Bubble wrap is a natural insulator. The layer of trapped air in the bubbles forms a barrier that keeps warm air in and prevents the unwanted cold from entering.
It is important to note that the bubbles always go against the item you're wrapping. Our top tip to help you remember, is to place the bubblewrap flat side on the surface. Then place the item on top to wrap, which will ensure the bubbles face inwards and offer better protection!
Most people understand that foil makes an excellent insulator.
If you already have double glazing, then adding a layer of cling film or other secondary glazing could still make you a little warmer, but the benefit will be much less than when dealing with a single glazed window.
Bubble Wrap Disadvantages
The biggest problem with the most common bubble wrap is it's not easily recyclable. You must take a few extra steps to make sure you dispose of it properly. Additionally, bubble wrap is bulky.
However, too much bubble or other materials can strain the top of the box and cause it to burst open during shipping, so be mindful of how much space you'll need to close the box. The top of the box should always lie flat.
To summarize, bubble wrap cuts the amount of heat that escapes through your windows by half. If less heat escapes, you need less heat from your furnace. Ergo, bubble wrap saves you money on your heating bill.
Bubble wrap is an inexpensive and easy way to insulate and reduce the amount of heat that escapes out your windows. Check out our videos for practical ways to keep your home warmer, drier and healthier this winter.
The Best Window Insulation
That material is spray foam insulation. If you want to learn more about the benefits of foam insulation for the rest of your home, check out the Learning Center on our website.
Increase the Shade
Adding window treatments is one of the easiest ways to keep sunlight from heating your living space. Curtains or drapes with a reflective or light-colored backing would do the best job since they won't absorb extra heat. In addition, you can consider getting adjustable blinds or a roller-type shade.
One of the most effective window films for blocking heat and finding long-lasting comfort, the 3M Sun Control Prestige Series is a great option. A 3M Prestige window film features a multilayer design with nanotechnology, putting up a powerful defense against the sun.