What is the best insulation around windows?

Author: Merritt Johnston  |  Last update: Friday, February 27, 2026

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.

Should you caulk or foam around windows?

Spray foam around windows offers superior insulation by filling gaps completely, reducing energy loss. It forms a tight seal that prevents air leaks more effectively than caulking alone, ensuring better temperature regulation indoors.

What is best to put on windows to keep cold out?

  • 1. Weatherstripping Apply Weatherstripping: Use adhesive weatherstripping tape around the window frames to seal gaps.
  • 2. Window Insulation Kits Plastic Film Kits: Purchase window insulation kits that include clear plastic film.
  • 3. Thermal Curtains Use Heavy Curtains: Install thermal or insulated curta

What is the most insulating window covering?

Insulated Cellular Shades

Insulated shades contain one or more air layers in a honeycomb cross-section. Some can be adjusted from the top, from the bottom, or both. Insulated cellular shades are typically considered to have the highest R-values of all window coverings.

What is the best way to block out heat from windows?

Foam board insulation with foil, reflective mylar emergency blankets, and regular tinfoil are all good options for things to cover the window from the inside to keep the sun out. Normal blinds work well too as long as they're white and fit the window properly.

How to Insulate Your Windows This Fall and Winter! - Thrift Diving

What is the best window covering to keep heat out?

Cellular Shades

They're one of the best window coverings to keep heat out and to keep cold out. Cellular shades come in a wide range of colors.

How to cheaply insulate windows?

The Best Low-Cost Ways to Insulate Windows for Winter
  1. Re-Caulk or Re-Seal to Insulate Windows for Winter.
  2. Air Seal Windows With Foam Tape for Better Insulation.
  3. Install Low-E Storm Windows Over the Existing Frames for Better Insulation.
  4. Insulate Windows by Installing Plastic Film Around the Glass.

What insulation to go around windows?

The most commonly used insulation materials are fiberglass and window spray foam insulation. Adding the best insulation around your windows will help make your home more comfortable and save you money on monthly energy bills.

Does plastic over windows really help insulate?

According to Energy.gov, plastic window insulation can save you 10%–30% on heating and cooling costs. While plastic window sheeting may have some downsides, it is reasonably effective as a wintertime insulator. Here we'll cover the pros and cons of plastic insulation for windows and explain how to install them.

How to stop heat loss through windows?

Thick curtains are one of the main ways to protect your house from losing heat through the windows. Curtains with a thermal lining are a relatively cheap option, says Brennand. "The thicker the better," adds Archna Luthra, consumer analyst at moneysavingexpert.com.

How to stop the cold from coming through windows?

Five ways to stop the cold coming through your windows this...
  1. Re-sealing your windows. Over time, the sealant or caulking around your windows can start to break down. ...
  2. curtains. ...
  3. Secondary Glazing: A Smart Solution for Heat Retention. ...
  4. Draught snakes. ...
  5. Replacement Glass Units –

Does window insulation film work?

Yes, thermal window film is designed to keep heat out during hot months. Its reflective and absorbent properties play a key role in preventing excessive heat from entering your living or working space.

Can I use bubble wrap to insulate my windows?

Bubble wrap is an inexpensive and easy way to insulate and reduce the amount of heat that escapes out your windows.

Where not to caulk around windows?

Quick answer: Don't caulk the weep holes, moving portions, or the tops of your windows.

What is the best foam to seal around windows?

Soudal Window & Door Expanding Foam is a moisture curing polyurethane expanding foam which is specifically developed for filling gaps around window and door frames. Soudal Window & Door Expanding Foam adheres to most frame materials including PVCu, aluminium and wood. It is resistant to water, heat and ageing.

What happens if you don't insulate around windows?

Poor window insulation allows heat to escape your home easily. This makes your heating and cooling system work harder, increasing energy use and costs.

Does putting saran wrap on windows help?

What's the point of using plastic wrap? Plastic wrap is a great solution to save money when you have drafty windows. Plastic does an excellent job of keeping the heat from escaping if it stays intact.

What is the best window insulation kit?

Share
  • BEST OVERALL: 3M Indoor Window Insulator Kit.
  • RUNNER-UP: Duck Brand Max Strength Window Kit.
  • BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Duck Brand Shrink Film Window Insulation Kit.
  • BEST FOR OUTDOOR USE: 3M Outdoor Window Insulation Kit.
  • BEST INSULATION TAPE: Yotache Weather Stripping Foam Seal Tape.

How to insulate windows for winter from inside?

Window Insulation Film for Draught-Free Windows

These are clear plastic sheets that can be stuck on to the window. You can then use a hairdryer to heat-shrink them, so they cling tightly to the frame. These act to block draughts, as well as heat loss from inside, by sealing the seams and any cracks in the structure.

How can I improve insulation around my windows?

Some insulation measures may make more of a difference than others, but all 6 help to keep your home warm throughout the colder seasons!
  1. Blinds and curtains. ...
  2. Weather sealing strips. ...
  3. Caulk. ...
  4. Window film. ...
  5. Secondary glazing. ...
  6. Double or triple glazing.

Should I use expanding foam around windows?

One of the most popular ways to insulate window frames in the home these days is with expanding foam for windows. Window insulation foam is great for sealing any cracks that can cause leaks or draughts.

What can you use instead of spray foam around windows?

Insulating by filling gaps around windows and doors: Stuff loose-fill fiberglass or strips of fiberglass batt insulation in those gaps. That's how builders used to do it and often still do. Sealing gaps for rodent control: Use patching putty, patching compound or silicone caulk, depending on the width of the gap.

How do I stop cold air from coming through my windows?

10 Ways to Keep Cold Air From Coming Through Windows
  1. Install Magic's Thermal Blinds. ...
  2. Replace Weatherstripping and Caulking. ...
  3. Replace Worn Out Hardware or Locks. ...
  4. Apply Window Insulation Film. ...
  5. Hang Thermal Insulated Curtains. ...
  6. Use Door Snakes. ...
  7. Install Secondary Glazing. ...
  8. Upgrade to Double Pane Windows.

Is bubble wrap a good insulator?

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.

Does putting plastic on windows help in winter?

Window film covers are inexpensive, reduce drafts, help the house feel warmer during winter months, and reduce moisture buildup on the window due to condensation.

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