Get matched with top window tinters in Drayton, ND

If you have bubble wrap lying around the house and you don’t care about the odd look, taping bubble wrap over a window is a very affordable way to insulate it. Another inexpensive option for insulating windows is to add new caulk around the glass. This step quickly cuts down on air drafts for older windows, and a tube of caulk only costs a few dollars. Adding plastic shrink film around the glass is another cost-effective option. You can purchase a kit of plastic film for a few dollars per window.

Applying window security film yourself is possible, but we don’t recommend it. This task is simple in theory, but getting the product to sit on your windows evenly and without bubbles underneath is challenging for DIYers who lack the necessary experience and tools. You might save money on labor by applying it yourself, but you might also end up with a film that doesn’t look appealing, prompting you to start over and spend the money on a professional installation anyway. Plus, most window film manufacturers will void your warranty if you install the product yourself.

The most energy-efficient windows are double—or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings and gas fills between the panes. These windows reduce heat transfer, prevent drafts, and help maintain a consistent indoor temperature. But if replacing windows isn’t in your budget, pairing your existing windows with insulating window treatments can still make a noticeable difference in home comfort and monthly bills. 

While you need heat to peel back window film, the tint will often leave behind adhesive residue. You can use chemicals such as isopropyl alcohol or acetone to remove the residue, though hardware stores sell specialized solutions for this purpose as well. You can also use soapy water in a pinch!