What Can I Put on My Badly-Insulated Windows?

Storm Windows

• Storm windows can be installed on single-pane windows that let in mighty gusts during cold winter weather. Storm windows are less attractive than brand new windows, but they provide about the same level of insulation for a fraction of the cost, according to Tom Silva, a professional contractor for This Old House. The windows are installed on the outside of the house to cover existing windows. Essentially, they stop the cold air from coming in and the warm air from going out, and they keep in cool air during the summer. Storm windows will also prevent windows from leaking water during a rainstorm.

Rubber Weather Sealing

• Rubber weather sealing is very inexpensive and can be installed in a matter of minutes. The long strips of rubber have an adhesive backing and can be cut to fit any window. The rubber strips fill in some of the gap between the window and the frame, creating a tight seal during bad weather. According to ApartmentTherapy.com, the only disadvantage to the strips is that paint may come up with them if you decide to remove the seal in the summer, but there's no reason why you have to as that tight seal will also keep in the air conditioning.

Plastic and Double-Sided Tape

• Covering windows with plastic has a similar effect as putting up storm windows or hanging double-pane windows but costs less than $10, as of May 2011, and requires far fewer materials. Of course, plastic goes on the inside of your windows and doesn't have the sealing power of actual windows, so you may be slightly disappointed by the results. Used with other tools and tactics, however, plastic on the windows will significantly reduce drafts. Try using rubber weather sealing and plastic and then hanging some heavy curtains for cozier results.

Curtains and Draft Snakes

• The more decorative approach to drafty windows is to hang heavy curtains in the winter. Of course, you'll want to keep the curtains open during the day to let in sunlight, which won't do much to keep out drafts if that's your only approach to the problem, but curtains drawn at night will stop drafts from invading the house. Draft snakes lie on the windowsill; they are easy to make at home from rags and scrap fabric, and they block drafts only at the bottom of the window. They are also useful along the bottom of a door.