How to Insulate Drafty Windows (Permanently)!

3 Materials
$7
1 Hour
Easy
If you have tried weather stripping and all of the other quick fixes to cut back on the cold air getting through and around your windows, maybe what you need is to insulate the window. Many homes built after 1980 do not have insulation around the windows (and some older homes as well). Why? Well, we now have a lot of spec homes out there (those multiple construction homes that were built with no one particular in mind). And many of us own one of these. But even other types of homes can have this problem. My own home was a custom built, designed by yours truly. :-) And I still had this problem in one of my bedrooms. (you have to watch some subcontractors with a hawk's eye).
All finished and snug as a bug!
At any rate, this room was having trouble getting warm. A lot of drafty air was coming in around this window. But, these were high end windows and brand new. No problems with the weather stripping or anything. So, I had a sneaky suspicion that the insulation crew failed to properly insulate this window.
I checked beneath the window trim and sure enough, no insulation around this window.
After removing the bottom trim, I could actually feel the draft even more. I saw 1 tiny pin prick hole of light shining through. So, I am sure that it was the biggest culprit. But now, problem solved.
The last step is to replace everything. It took me just about 1 hour total to complete, but was relatively easy. You can check out the entire step by step, on my blog to get a breakdown of all the steps and details.
Suggested materials:
  • Hammer
  • Utility knife
  • Pry bar
Rachel Lynn | queenbeeofhoneydos.com
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
3 of 7 questions
  • Marion Marion on Jan 16, 2016
    My windows aren't trimmed out. How do I fix them?
  • Miss E Miss E on Jan 17, 2018

    I know this is about windows. But I'm a damsel in distress. There is plenty of light and cold air coming through my front and back doors. As a First time home owner that's new to this but really trying what do I do?

  • Elizabeth Haire Elizabeth Haire on Oct 09, 2023

    How about rentals ? I can't take apart a wall where I am.

Comments
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3 of 29 comments
  • Jason Jason on Mar 26, 2016
    A word of caution...spray foam can void warranties of windows
    • Mary Ann Niemczycki Mary Ann Niemczycki on Dec 31, 2016
      And it can be hard to handle and impossible to remove if you get it somewhere you don't want it.
  • Nan Nan on Nov 05, 2020

    I bought a second set of window screens. I covered these with clear plastic, the kind you buy to protect your table cloth. Now I change out the screens (like old fashion storm windows) when the weather gets cold .Store the screens until spring and change back when the warmer weather comes.

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