How to Insulate Windows | Cheap and Easy With Plastic Film, by HomeServe on YouTube. 1 min 54 s.
- Video length
- 1 min 54 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 7
What you need
Steps
Wipe the window frame and glass with a damp cloth and let them dry fully, so dust does not stop the tape from sticking.
Measure the whole window opening, add about 5 cm to each side, and cut the plastic film to that size.
Peel the backing off the double-sided tape and press it around the frame, close to the edge and with no gaps at the corners.
Press the film onto the tape starting at the top, pulling it gently taut as you work down and across so it lies flat.
Run your hand along the tape line to seal every edge, then trim any spare film with scissors.
Hold a hairdryer on a medium to high setting about 10 to 15 cm from the film and sweep it slowly over the surface until the wrinkles shrink tight.
Check the edges for lifting, press them down again, and run your hand around the frame to feel for any remaining draught.
Tips and common mistakes
Keep the hairdryer moving the whole time, because holding it in one spot can melt or tear the film.
Stick the tape to the frame or trim, not to wallpaper or loose paint that will peel off later.
Work on a mild day, as tape does not grip well on very cold, damp frames.
A second pair of hands makes it much easier to keep the film flat while you press it onto the tape.
Questions
Can you use a hairdryer to shrink window film?
Yes. Use a medium to high heat setting, keep the dryer about 10 to 15 cm away and keep it moving until the film pulls tight. Stop as soon as the wrinkles are gone.
Will the film damage the frame when I take it off?
It should not. Peel the tape off slowly and warm it with the hairdryer first if it resists, then wipe away any sticky residue with warm soapy water.
Can I open the window with the film on?
No. The film seals the window shut for the season, so remove it before you need the window open for airflow.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
