How to Weatherproof Your Windows

Weatherproofing your windows is one of those things you can do that truly has no disadvantages. Not only does it keep rain out and heat in, but it cuts down on energy costs. It's great for the environment, great for your pocket book, and this is a guide that will show you how to do it.

The obvious first suggestion is to buy newer, more energy efficient windows. This might not be realistic for some people who are struggling to save. However, Congress passed a bill that allows for a tax credit that will pay for up to 30% (maximum $1500) of your new energy efficient windows if they're purchased between 2009 and 2010. Many window companies are taking advantage of the publicity this tax credit has caused and are initiating extra discounts. So at least look into purchasing these windows, as they're a good investment and are now so inexpensive.

However, if you're unable to purchase new windows, you can still weatherproof them yourself. One way to do that is to purchase plastic from a hardware or home improvement store like Wal-Mart, Lowe's, or Home Depot. Take the plastic, and with strong duct tape, secure it to the windows. Then, take a hair dryer and blow it on the plastic. This removes the air inside it and makes the plastic attach more securely to the windows. The more secure the plastic is, the more energy efficient and weather proof it is.

If you don't want to use plastic sheets, another great way to weatherproof windows is to use weatherstripping. This is both inexpensive (around $4.50-$5.95 for a roll at any hardware store or home repair store) and easy, so that's double the incentive for using it. You might already have weatherstripping, but after a while it needs to be replaced. Before you apply it, measure your window twice to ensure that you have the correct amount of weatherstripping. Then, cut the pieces to fit the measurements. To apply, peel the adhesive label from the back of the strip and apply along the perimeters on the inside of the window. It should be on the inside in order to avoid the weather from the outside.

These are all great ways to weatherproof a window. After you're finished with your project, you can celebrate with the money you'll save on energy costs! It is a simple project whose benefits are many.

Source: http://www.efficientwindows.org/taxcredit.pdf