How to Install a Window Insulation Kit
Updated: Mar. 18, 2022
Fix your drafty windows in about 15 minutes,
Time A few minutes
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$20-50
Introduction
No one likes a drafty room or high heating bills. This fix is quick, inexpensive and easy to do with just a pair of scissors and a hair dryer. Read on to learn how to install window insulating film.Tools Required
- Clean Rag
- Hair dryer
- Measuring tape
- Scissors
Materials Required
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Window film
Project step-by-step (6)
Step 1
Measure First
- Before you head to the store to purchase your window insulating kit, measure all the drafty windows, using the height and width from the outside edge of the window trim.
- Choosing the proper kit can be confusing. Most window insulating kits come with one large sheet of plastic film, out of which you’ll cut two or three window coverings. The window height measurement is an important number to look for.
Step 2
Dust and Clean
- Dust and wipe down everything with a dry microfiber cloth.
- If your window glass needs cleaning, now is a good time to do it.
- Next, grab some isopropyl alcohol and a clean rag and wipe down the casing where you the film will adhere.
Step 3
Applying the Double-Sided Tape
- Your kit includes double-sided tape. You can stick this tape directly on the face of your window casing or along its edge.
- Apply the tape to the top, bottom and two sides of the window casing. Do not pull the backing off the tape yet.
- Note: Some window film products have one edge with adhesive already applied. This is for the top of the window.
Step 4
Install the Film
- Measure the width of the window. Add an extra two inches. Then cut your film accordingly.
- Starting at the top left of the window, carefully peel off about six inches of the backing from the adhesive tape. Let an inch of film hang over the left side of the double-sided tape. Then begin sticking the film across the top of the window.
- Stick the film onto the tape, working from one side of the window to the other. Keep the film tight as you go while peeling the backing off the tape.
- Once you’ve finished the top, move on to the left side, sticking and peeling as you go down.
- Gently pull on the window film as you apply it to the tape. Repeat on the right side and then on the bottom.
Step 5
Shrink the Film
- Once you’ve applied the film, take a hair dryer and apply high heat around the taped edges to make sure it’s completely adhered.
- Shrink the rest of the film and any wrinkles with the hair dryer.
Step 6
Trim It
- After shrinking the film into place, cut around the perimeter of the window to trim off any excess film.
