Bubble wrap with large bubbles (and less space in between) tends to perform better, so if you want maximum return-on-investment, bigger bubbles are definitely better.
The larger the bubble size, the more protection you have against impact damage. That's because there's more air captured in larger bubbles to create a protective layer around your products. 3/16-inch and 1/2-inch bubbles in particular are great for cushioning any medium-weight items you may be shipping.
People seem to like the medium to large size bubbles, but report of smaller bubbles having the same insulating properties are common. The larger ones appear (from surface temperature measurements) to insulate a little better, and you still get a nice artistic effect looking out of them.
Apply the bubble wrap while the window is still wet and press it into place. The bubble side goes toward the glass. To remove the bubble wrap, just pull it off starting from a corner.
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.
Find large pieces of bubble wrap, preferably with medium to large-sized bubbles. Using scissors, cut the sheets slightly smaller than your window glass.
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.
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.
When working with foil faced insulation, you should use its advantages accordingly. Therefore, when installing foil faced insulation always fit the foil side where the temperature difference is greatest. So, any time you use a single side foil insulation, the foil needs to be facing toward the living space.
An R-value is a measurement that shows the ability of a material to resist heat transfer. The higher the R-index, the more effective insulation is regarding heat resistance. The R-value of bubble wrap insulation is very low (1.0 or 1.1) and it is affected by compression.
“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.
Make sure you lay the protective bubble so the bubble side is facing up. That way, the pockets of air will be able to do their job and protect your fragile items during shipping. If the bubbles are facing out, they're more likely to be popped during shipping.
Honeycomb paper is a sustainable alternative to bubble wrap. It's made from recycled materials, and it's biodegradable and compostable.
Large bubble wrap is better suited for items that are less prone to breakage but need protection from scratches and dents. Think about the size of the items you're moving. Smaller items fit snugly in small bubble wrap, while larger items may need the extra cushioning provided by large bubble wrap.
Bubble wrap is full of air which has a very low thermal conductivity. It does not conduct heat well. Plus, since the air is contained in bubbles there is little air movement to advect heat well.
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!
But on top of being fun to pop and great for packing, bubble wrap also works as an environmentally-friendly way to insulate your windows.
For most long-term applications, double bubble foil insulation is going to be the better option to use. Because of the double layer of polyethylene bubbles, double bubble insulation provides the most effective thermal break, making it harder for radiant heat to transfer through than with single bubble insulation.
Cotton is a great thermal insulator – as long as it's dry. Once wet, cotton becomes a poor insulator and does a poor job of preventing hypothermia-hence the old adage, “cotton kills”.
Because bubble wrap is typically lined with a metallic reflective layer, it is quite good at conducting heat and therefore cooling down a space such as your attic. The reflective aluminum bubble wrap insulation can massively reduce temperatures given the presence of an air barrier and proper installation.
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.
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.