DIY Window Insulation - Installation Instructions

DIY window insulation consists of a clear film that is put on the inside of the house. The film is attached to the frame, not to the glass itself. The product is meant for one heating season but we know many of our clients have used them for several seasons. More about DIY window insulation

Caution

DIY window insulation can be a great solution to avoid condensation and heat loss through windows. However, we advise caution in the following instances:

DIY window insulation is not a permanent solution and may not be suitable in households where little children, pets, etc. may easily damage the film.
The distortion of light through the film is generally minimal but where high-quality views are treasured it may distract from the viewing pleasure.
If the pane is cracked, the frame is poorly joined or otherwise air tightness is not achieved when applying the film, DIY window insulation will not be able to insulate properly.
Installation on wooden frames in the middle of winter when frames are damp may result in condensation being trapped between the film and the pane. This will not affect the effectiveness of the insulation but may be unsightly.
When applied to frames with flaking paint or otherwise poorly painted surfaces, it may damage the frame on removal.
The tape of the DIY window insulation may leave a light stain when left on for longer periods than one heating season.
On frames less than 5mm deep there may not be enough air trapped in between the glass pane and the window film for the DIY window insulation to insulate the window effectively.

What do you need?

Installing plastic window kits is easy. All you need is a pair of scissors, a hair dryer and a measuring tape. You may want to purchase extra tape over above what is supplied in the packet. The tape sold at Community Energy Action will give you good adhesive results.

Preparation of your windows

Make sure your windows and window frame are clean and dry. Clean your windows and the frame with the alcohol swabs provided in the kit and wait for the frame and pane to dry before applying the film. A hair dryer can help to dry out the frame and the pane before installation.
It is especially important for wooden frames to be dry before attaching the tape and film. When installed on wooden window frames during winter or during damp weather, there is a chance condensation may get trapped between the pane and the film. This will not affect the effectiveness of the film but may be unsightly. You may wish to use a hair dryer to dry out the frame and glass. This will also help the adhesive to stick better.
For a tidier end result, you may want to remove hardware (handles and catches) before putting up the insulation, putting it back on after attaching the film.

Cutting of the window insulation

Make sure your hands are very clean and dry. Roll out the film and cut it on a hair and lint-free surface, otherwise you may trap annoying hairs in the internal gap.
Cut more than the actual size of the window. It is easier to trim excess film once up than to try and cut the exact size. Make sure the excess film border is several centimeters wide so there will be enough film to re-attach if for any reason the film becomes unstuck and needs to be put up a second time.

Putting up the window insulation

Stick the tape around the front face of the internal window frame.
Attach the cut plastic loosely to the tape, then trim edges to make it look nice and tidy.
Shrink the film with a hair dryer until any wrinkles disappear. Do not leave the hair dryer in one place too long or the plastic will melt.

If the film doesn't stick well to the tape use a hair dryer to warm the tape while lightly pressing on the tape surface. This improves the adhesion of the film to the tape.

Avoid over-tightening of the film when you are shrinking it. It will not stick to the double-sided tape easily if the tension is too high.

Extra double-sided tape is available from Community Energy Action.

Removing the window insulation

Pull off the plastic film starting at a corner.
The tape may come off with the film. If not, pull the tape back on itself (180°)

Any residue adhesive can be removed with Duck Brand Adhesive Remover, also available from Community Energy Action. Let the remover soak for five to ten minutes before removing residues.