Wrapping up the house in plastic isn’t exactly a design statement, but you’re right—it’s hard to argue with the results. I’ve had a few properties where tenants used the shrink film, and ...
I hear you on the “gift wrap” look—definitely not winning any style points, but it’s hard to beat the savings. I’ve tried both shrink film and magnetic kits, and honestly, I lean toward the film for better sealing, even if it’s a pain. Heavy drapes are great too, but I always wonder if layering both is overkill or actually worth it. Has anyone noticed a big difference doing both at once?
Layering shrink film with heavy drapes always seemed like overkill to me, but I get why people do it. I’ve run a few numbers on my own rentals—older windows especially—and the combo does seem to cut drafts more than either method alone. The thing is, I’m not sure if the extra effort and cost really pays off compared to just doing a solid job with one or the other. The film is a pain to install, but it’s cheap and you can see the difference on a cold day when you put your hand near the window. Drapes help, but unless they’re really thick and close-fitting, there’s still some air movement.
Has anyone actually measured the temperature difference between just film, just drapes, and both? I’ve thought about using a thermal camera to check for leaks after installing both, but haven’t gotten around to it yet. Curious if anyone’s done something similar or tracked their energy bills before and after layering up.
Also, does anyone worry about condensation issues when you double up? I had one unit where moisture built up behind the film because the drapes trapped too much air, and it ended up peeling paint on the sill. Not sure if that’s common or just bad luck with that particular window.
I keep wondering if there’s a smarter way—like interior storm panels or something more permanent that doesn’t look so temporary. Anyone tried those? The plastic film works, but it’s not exactly a long-term solution...
I get where you’re coming from, but honestly, I think the layering is worth it—at least in old houses like mine. I used to just do the shrink film and call it a day, but after adding heavy curtains (not even the super fancy thermal ones), I noticed the living room felt way less drafty. I haven’t done a scientific temp check, but my gas bill dropped a bit last winter compared to previous years. Could be coincidence, but it felt warmer.
About condensation—yeah, that’s a legit concern. I had some peeling paint too, especially on north-facing windows. I started cracking the drapes open during the day to let things air out and that seemed to help. Not perfect, but better than repainting every spring.
I’ve looked into those interior storm panels you mentioned. Pricey up front, but they look way better than plastic film and you can reuse them every year. If you’re planning to stay put for a while, might be worth the investment instead of wrestling with tape and hairdryers every fall...
I totally get the appeal of the interior storm panels—yeah, they’re a chunk of change up front, but honestly, I think they pay for themselves over time. I put some in my old craftsman last year (after years of cursing at plastic film), and the difference is wild. No more crinkly windows, and my plants don’t get fried from condensation drips. If you’re planning to stick around, it beats the annual tape-and-pray routine. Curtains help, but those panels are next-level cozy.
Totally agree—those panels are a game changer for drafts and condensation. I’ve found they also help with sound insulation, which is a bonus if you’re on a busy street. One thing I’m curious about: did you notice any issues with fitting them around old window hardware or trim? Some of my clients with historic homes run into weird gaps or have to custom order. Just wondering if you had to tweak anything to get a good seal.
