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The best homemade cleaning solution for windows is one gallon of warm, distilled or bottled water mixed with five to ten drops of liquid dish soap. This is what professional window cleaners typically use when they make their cleaning solutions. Using bottled or distilled water will help avoid hard water stains after cleaning, and the soap will cut through grease, smudges, and debris on your glass.

Using plastic shrink film over the window will cut down on drafts, which makes the air inside your home feel warmer. Plastic shrink film doesn’t quite have the insulative properties of a new window or of adding insulation inside the window jamb, but it will help. Plus, it’s a cost-effective solution to keeping your home warmer.

You should board up windows when you need to protect your home either from intruders after a window breaks or from severe weather before you experience damage. To maintain home security with a broken window, get your window boarded immediately. If there’s a hurricane, tropical storm, or tornado expected in your area, board your windows a day or two beforehand to avoid emergency service fees.

Whether you need a permit to install a bay window depends on the project's scope. Replacing an existing bay window typically does not require a permit. However, if you are adding a new bay window, requirements can vary. Adding a new bay window to the front of your house usually requires a building permit, while adding one to the side or back of your house often does not. It's always best to check with your local municipality to confirm the specific requirements in your area. Additionally, if you live in a historic district, you should consult your neighborhood association to ensure your project complies with their construction guidelines. If you're unsure about the process, a professional can provide guidance.