Budget Fixes For Drafty Windows

But if you can’t because of time—or budget—first weatherstrip, then try these other temporary solutions to fix drafty windows on a budget to help beat the chill.

Plastic Film

Applied to panes with double-sided tape and sealed using the heat from a hair dryer, this inexpensive clear shrink film can allow a room to retain as much as 55 percent of its heat. In a pinch, bubble wrap makes an effective replacement; just push the bubble side of the wrap against the glass and adhere with double-sided tape. Shown: Duck Crystal Clear Shrink Film, about $6.59 per pack, Home Depot.

Draft Snakes

One way to fix drafty windows on a budget is to stop cold air from creeping through windowsills with a snake. You can buy one online, or easily make one yourself by filling a tube of fabric, like an old knee sock, with dry rice.

Rigid Foam

For basement and attic windows you don’t need to see out of, cover the panes with a piece of foam board glued to ⅜-inch drywall. Cut pieces to fit snugly inside the frame, press the foam side against the glass, then simply pop out when you want to let in sunlight. Shown: FOAMULAR 1/2 in. x 4 ft. x 8 ft. R-3 Square Edge Rigid Foam Board Insulation Sheathing, about $14.50 per 8-4-foot panel, Home Depot