While looking into the best way to insulate our drafty windows this winter (apart from replacing them), I put together this mini-guide of solutions we found so far, including the pros and cons of everything from layered curtains to shrink-wrap film.
1. Rubber Weather Sealing: You can buy strips of self-stick rubber weather sealing at a hardware store or online. Cut long strips down to fit your window dimensions, then peel and stick to the frame to close any gaps and keep out drafts.
Pros: Cheap, effective, minimal alterations to appearance of windows.
Cons: When you peel away the rubber strips, they can damage paint or leave a sticky residue.
2. Window Insulation Film: You can buy window insulation kits from a hardware store or online. Kits usually include plastic shrink film that is applied to the indoor window frame with double-stick tape, then heated with a hair dryer to shrink the film and remove any wrinkles. Check out our tutorial in the link below.
Pros: Cheap and effective.
Cons: Gives windows a cloudy, shrink-wrapped look.
3. Cellular Shades: Cellular Shades insulate while still letting in light through the windows. They can be ordered and custom cut from home and design centers. We found a good set of step-by-step instructions for installation here.
Pros: They let in light and can be custom-fitted for doors and windows.
Cons: They can be expensive and may not insulate as much as heavier curtains.
4. Layered Curtains or Insulated Curtains: Use heavy fabrics or layered curtains over the windows to keep out drafts. Or, purchase insulated curtains with built-in thermal backing.
Pros: Looks good, can be matched to your home decor.
Cons: Curtains can be expensive and heavy drapes can block out light.
5. Draft Snakes: Draft snakes are fabric tubes placed on a window sill or under a door to prevent cold air from creeping in. You can make one by sewing a tube of fabric to fit the width of your window and filling it with dried rice.
Pros: Cheap, easy to make as a DIY project.
Cons: It only insulates the window sill, not the glass or frame.
Source by: http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/5-ways-to-insulate-your-windows-for-winter-37643
Image source: http://assets.inhabitat.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2012/10/windows-537×351.jpeg