Question 1

What’s the most cost-effective way to insulate windows?

Accepted Answer

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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.

Question 2

How do I know if a window is energy efficient?

Accepted Answer

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Energy-efficient windows are judged on their performance according to a few different factors, including heat transfer, air leakage, light transference, and condensation resistance. If you're unsure whether a window is energy-efficient, look for an ENERGY STAR® label from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). If various products, including windows, meet energy-efficiency standards set by the federal government, the EPA issues this label to help consumers identify energy-efficient products.

Question 3

What are the benefits of home window tinting?

Accepted Answer

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Tinting your windows can be more energy-efficient, allowing your home to better block out the sun’s heat in warmer months and retain heat in the cooler months. It also blocks harmful UV rays, keeping your family and pets safe from sun damage. Tinting windows keeps your furniture color from fading in the sun, as well.

Window tinting also makes it more difficult for passersby to see in your windows, giving you better privacy. Some window films and tinted glass options even help your windows better withstand trauma and avoid cracking from any attempted break-ins or bad weather.

Question 4

What type of window is most energy efficient?

Accepted Answer

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Typically, triple-pane windows made with krypton gas filling are the most energy efficient. A window’s frame, glass, design, and installation all affect its energy efficiency. These windows, in particular, are designed highly effectively in terms of their ability to insulate.

Question 5

Can frosted glass spray be used outside?

Accepted Answer

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Some frosted glass sprays can handle the outdoors, but most of them aren't built for it. Sprays made for exterior use will say so clearly on the label. Anything marked “interior use only” can't hold up against rain, UV exposure, or changing temperatures without peeling, fading, or yellowing. Outdoor-rated sprays are typically more durable, but even then, proper prep and application matter. Before spraying anything outside, double-check the product instructions. If it doesn’t specifically mention exterior use, skip it.