Sash windows are lovely and romantic architectural features but they can be drafty, especially in older homes. To be warm this winter, save money on heating bills with DIY sash window insulation
Sash windows are also known as double-hung windows in the USA, but their name change doesn't solve their air circulation problem when cold winds blow. That's why it can be a real money-saver to learn how to insulate this kind of window.
For those with little DIY experience, there's a simple method for window insulation. Purchase some self-adhesive foam insulation, some V-channel weatherstripping and some rope caulk. Next, measure the sash width with a tape measure and cut a piece of foam insulation to match. Wash the sash bottom with soap and water or any household cleaner and dry it completely. (Don't apply insulation over damp wood; the trapped moisture could cause the wood to rot quicker). Once the sash is dry, attach the insulation to the bottom by peeling off the backing as you go.
Next, clean the window jambs and let them dry completely. While they're drying off, cut V-channel weatherstripping into two pieces that are each one inch longer that the height of the side jambs. Once the jambs are dry, press each piece against the jamb and secure it with finish nails at top and bottom. When this task is done, cut V-channel weatherstripping into a piece that's the same width as the sash. Lift the window a few inches so that you can get to the outside of the sash. Position the strip against the top of the outside sash, and attach it by pulling away the backing as you go.
For a window that will be closed throughout the season, seal it around all the inside edges with rope caulking, smoothed using your fingers or a spoon back. This way it will be easy to peel away the caulking when the weather warms up.
Experienced homeowners may want to try this more permanent method to save money on heating bills with DIY sash window insulation.
Remove the molding from around the window. Measure the space and then cut a piece of foil-backed rigid foam insulation that will fit tightly into the space between the plaster or drywall and the side jamb of the sash window. Next spray polyurethane foam sealant that expands to fill the spaces at the top and bottom of the side jamb.
Now press the foam insulation strip firmly beside the jamb, making it flush with the wall. Repeat this procedure on the other side jamb and then cover both seams where the insulation meets the wall with adhesive-backed foil tape. Insert a small length of rubber carpet padding into the hole where the rope and pulley meet.
Replace the molding around the window, and you're assured you will save money on heating bills with DIY sash window insulation.
Sash windows are also known as double-hung windows in the USA, but their name change doesn't solve their air circulation problem when cold winds blow. That's why it can be a real money-saver to learn how to insulate this kind of window.
For those with little DIY experience, there's a simple method for window insulation. Purchase some self-adhesive foam insulation, some V-channel weatherstripping and some rope caulk. Next, measure the sash width with a tape measure and cut a piece of foam insulation to match. Wash the sash bottom with soap and water or any household cleaner and dry it completely. (Don't apply insulation over damp wood; the trapped moisture could cause the wood to rot quicker). Once the sash is dry, attach the insulation to the bottom by peeling off the backing as you go.
Next, clean the window jambs and let them dry completely. While they're drying off, cut V-channel weatherstripping into two pieces that are each one inch longer that the height of the side jambs. Once the jambs are dry, press each piece against the jamb and secure it with finish nails at top and bottom. When this task is done, cut V-channel weatherstripping into a piece that's the same width as the sash. Lift the window a few inches so that you can get to the outside of the sash. Position the strip against the top of the outside sash, and attach it by pulling away the backing as you go.
For a window that will be closed throughout the season, seal it around all the inside edges with rope caulking, smoothed using your fingers or a spoon back. This way it will be easy to peel away the caulking when the weather warms up.
Experienced homeowners may want to try this more permanent method to save money on heating bills with DIY sash window insulation.
Remove the molding from around the window. Measure the space and then cut a piece of foil-backed rigid foam insulation that will fit tightly into the space between the plaster or drywall and the side jamb of the sash window. Next spray polyurethane foam sealant that expands to fill the spaces at the top and bottom of the side jamb.
Now press the foam insulation strip firmly beside the jamb, making it flush with the wall. Repeat this procedure on the other side jamb and then cover both seams where the insulation meets the wall with adhesive-backed foil tape. Insert a small length of rubber carpet padding into the hole where the rope and pulley meet.
Replace the molding around the window, and you're assured you will save money on heating bills with DIY sash window insulation.
About the Author:
Sash window refurbishment makes your home's curb appeal higher and also saves money. When sash window draught proofing is finished, your home will be not as prone to losing heat around windows.
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