How Much Does Covering Windows With Plastic Help?
Discover how covering windows with plastic can keep homes cozy in winter. Save energy, cut costs, and maybe turn your home into a nifty DIY cave!
Have you ever wondered why some people cover their windows with plastic during the cold months? It might seem like an odd thing to do, but it actually serves a special purpose. Let's look into this intriguing practice and see how it helps keep homes warm and cozy.
What Happens When You Cover Windows With Plastic?
In simple terms, covering your windows with plastic can help keep your house warmer. This works because plastic can stop cold air from coming inside and keep warm air from escaping. When you carefully place plastic over the windows, it acts like a barrier. This barrier can make a room feel more comfortable, even when the weather outside is chilly.
Understanding the Science
Everything starts with the way heat tries to escape from your home. Heat naturally moves from warmer areas to colder ones until everything is the same temperature. So, when it's freezing outside, heat from your warm rooms tries to sneak out through windows. Plastic helps slow down this process, holding the heat inside for a longer time.
Why Does This Matter?
Keeping the heat inside means you don't have to use as much energy to warm up your home. And using less energy is good because it can lower your electricity bill. Plus, it's better for the environment because it uses less energy from power plants.
How Do You Cover Your Windows With Plastic?
Covering windows with plastic involves a few steps. It requires clear, strong plastic sheets, double-sided tape, and sometimes a hairdryer. Let's break these steps down so it's easy to understand.
Step 1: Measure Your Windows
First, you need to know how big your windows are. Carefully use a measuring tape to find out the height and width of the window you plan to cover. This helps you cut the right size of plastic sheet.
Step 2: Cut the Plastic
Once you have your measurements, cut the plastic sheet to match the size of the window. It's best to leave a little extra plastic on each side to make sure it fully covers the window.
Step 3: Use Double-Sided Tape
Next, use the double-sided tape to stick the plastic to the window frame. Put the tape all around the window, making a tight seal. This helps the plastic stay in place.
Step 4: Attach the Plastic
Carefully press the cut plastic sheet against the tape on the window frame. Smooth it out, so there are no wrinkles or air bubbles. The plastic should fit snugly against the window.
Step 5: Seal with Heat
Finally, take a hairdryer and gently blow warm air on the plastic. The heat will shrink the plastic a little, making it tight and smooth. This seals the plastic to the window, creating your barrier.
Benefits of Using Plastic on Windows
Now that you know how to cover your windows with plastic, let's see why it's helpful. There are several benefits that show how this simple trick can make a big difference.
Keeps the Cold Out
Plastic covers stop cold drafts from sneaking through cracks in the window frame. Those sneaky drafts make rooms feel chilly even when the heater is on. Plastic helps tackle this problem.
Saves Money
By keeping warm air inside, your home's heating system doesn't work as hard. This generally means lower energy bills. Saving money is always a happy moment, right?
Protects the Environment
Less energy use is not just good for your wallet. It's also better for our planet because it reduces the fossil fuels needed to make electricity.
Increases Comfort
A warm house feels cozy and welcoming. No more sitting with a blanket, shivering on the couch. Plastic-covered windows help maintain a comfortable temperature.
Are There Any Downsides?
While covering windows with plastic has its benefits, it's important to look at the whole picture. There might be some drawbacks to consider.
Affects Window Appearance
Some people might think plastic sheets don't look very pretty on their windows. Clear plastic can sometimes wrinkle, and it might not match the style of your home.
Can Be Tricky to Install
If you're not careful, installing plastic can be a bit tricky. Wrinkles and gaps can reduce how effective it is at keeping heat inside.
Needs Careful Removal
At the end of winter, you'll have to take the plastic off the windows. This should be done carefully, so you don't damage the window frames or leave sticky tape behind.
Hallmark Window Films: A Better Alternative
While plastic sheets can help, there's another way to keep your home cozy. Hallmark Window Films offers products that can be a better choice.
Who Is Hallmark Window Films?
Hallmark Window Films is a company that specializes in window coverings. They have products designed to control sunlight and temperature, offering a permanent solution to drafty windows. These films are perfect for people wanting to improve their home's look and feel.
What Are the Benefits?
Hallmark Window Films provides several kinds of window films that do more than plastic sheets can. Their products reduce heat and glare, increase privacy, and also add a touch of style to your rooms. Plus, once installed, you don't have to do it every year like with plastic sheets. This saves both time and effort.
Why Choose Them?
Choosing Hallmark Window Films means appreciating quality and expertise. They bring over 45 years of experience in window films and offer a range of excellent products at affordable prices. This ensures you get a product that works well and looks good, providing a long-term solution for a warmer home.
Comparison Table: Plastic Sheets vs. Window Films
| Feature | Plastic Sheets | Hallmark Window Films |
|---|---|---|
| Easy to Install | Yes, but can wrinkle | Professional installation |
| Appearance | Can look unappealing | Stylish and sleek |
| Reusable | No, needs replacement yearly | Yes, permanent once installed |
| Energy Efficiency | Good | Excellent |
| Environmentally Friendly | Moderate | High |
| Cost-Effectiveness (Long Term) | Moderate | High |
Conclusion
Covering windows with plastic can make your home warmer and save energy. It acts as a helpful barrier against cold air and can reduce heating bills. Yet, for those wanting a permanent and more attractive solution, Hallmark Window Films offers an excellent alternative. Their high-quality films maintain heat, improve privacy, and enhance the overall charm of your home all year round.
So next time you feel a cold draft, consider both of these options for keeping your home snug and saving on your energy bills. Whether you choose the seasonal approach with plastic or a more lasting solution with Hallmark Window Films, you're on your way to a more comfortable home during those chilly months.