When the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, you might be thinking about getting your home ready for the chilly months that lie ahead.
You’re not alone.
One popular DIY solution that often comes up is adding plastic sheeting over windows. It makes sense…after all it’s been reported that we can lose as much as 30% of our heat through these portals.
But is plastic sheeting over windows really a good idea? Let’s dive into the pros and cons of this winterizing technique and help you decide if it’s right for your home.
Pros
1. Better Insulation
The fundamental reason people use plastic sheeting is its insulating characteristics. When correctly fitted, plastic adds an extra layer of air between your window and the room, acting as a barrier to chilly air.
This is especially useful for older, single-pane windows that struggle to keep the cold out on their own.
2. Inexpensive Solution
Let’s get real…replacing old windows with new, energy-efficient ones can be expensive. In contrast, plastic sheeting is a fraction of the cost. For only a few bucks per window, you might see significant increases in your home’s warmth and energy efficiency.
3. Easy DIY Project
You don’t have to be a home improvement guru to install window plastic. Most kits include everything you’ll need, including plastic and double-sided tape. With a little patience and a hair dryer (to shrink the plastic for a snug fit), you can winterize your windows in one afternoon.
4. Reduced Drafts
If you’ve ever sat near a window on a cold day and felt a shiver, you understand how uncomfortable drafts can be. Plastic sheeting may greatly minimize drafts, making rooms near windows more comfortable to occupy.
5. Potential Energy Savings
Plastic sheeting can help you save money on heating with its insulative properties. And while exact savings may vary, many homeowners report significant reductions in their winter energy bills after installing window plastic.
Cons
1. Appearance
Let’s be honest: putting plastic over your windows will not win you any interior design prizes. While modern window film has gotten better in transparency, it remains visible and can distract from the appearance of your home, both inside and out.
2. Reduced Natural Light
Even the most transparent plastic sheeting can limit the quantity of natural light entering your home. For individuals who value every moment of sunlight during the short winter days, this reduction may not be worth the trade-off.
3. Limited Window Functionality
When the plastic is up, opening your windows gets difficult. If you love fresh air even in milder weather or need to ventilate your home on a regular basis, plastic-covered windows can be a pain in the you know what!
4. Potential Damage to Window Frames
The adhesive used for attaching the plastic can at times damage the paint or varnish on window frames, especially when removed at the end of the season. This is particularly worrying in homes with historic or costly woodwork.
5. Condensation Issues
Plastic helps keep drafts out, but it can also trap moisture between the window and the plastic. If not maintained properly, this could lead to condensation, which can cause mold growth or damage to window sills.
6. Environmental Concerns
Most window plastic is made for single-season usage, so it frequently winds up in landfills come spring. For ecologically mindful households, this throwaway character can be a major disadvantage.
Is Window Plastic Right for You?
Deciding whether to use plastic sheeting on your windows depends on your specific situation. Here are a few factors to consider:
- ⬥ Climate: If you live in a location with harsh winters, the benefits of window plastic may outweigh the disadvantages.
- ⬥ Window Condition: Plastic makes more sense when used to protect older, single-pane windows than modern, energy-efficient windows.
- ⬥ Home Ownership: Renters may favor plastic sheeting as a temporary solution, but homeowners may prefer more permanent changes.
- ⬥ Budget: If replacing all of the windows is not an option, plastic can serve as a temporary solution.
- ⬥ Aesthetics: Consider if you’ll mind the significant change plastic sheeting will make to your home’s overall look.
Plastic window sheeting is not a one-size-fits-all solution. For some, it’s a low-cost option to increase comfort and save energy costs during the colder months. Others believe the disadvantages in terms of look and functionality exceed the possible benefits.
If you decide to use window plastic, begin with a few windows in less prominent areas of your home. This will allow you to see how it affects the aesthetics and functionality before committing to covering all your windows.
Finally, consider researching different types of plastic sheeting to find one that best suits your needs and preferences. This allows you to reap the benefits personally while reducing the cosmetic impact. If you hate it, remember that you can always take it down so the cost to try it out is minimal at best.
