Drafty window solutions, How to Insulate Windows and Using Caulk Cord and Rope Caulk on your windows, by Everyday Workbench on YouTube. 2 min 14 s.
- Video length
- 2 min 14 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes per window
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Run your hand along the frame, sill and sash edges on a cold, windy day to find where cold air comes in. Mark the worst gaps with a pencil.
Wipe the frame and sill with a damp cloth and let them dry fully. Tape and cord will not stick to dust, grease or damp wood.
For narrow cracks, unroll the rope caulk and press it into the gap with your thumb, working along the frame in one continuous run. Do not stretch it.
For wider gaps between the sash and the frame, cut foam sponge tape to length with scissors, peel the backing and press it into the gap.
For a loose single pane, stick the double-sided tape from the Frost King EZ Roll kit around the inside frame, leaving no gaps at the corners.
Cut the shrink film to size with a little overlap, press it onto the tape and smooth out wrinkles with your hand.
Run a hairdryer on low over the film, keeping it moving, until the plastic pulls tight and the creases disappear.
Check the window again for cold spots and add cord or tape anywhere air still gets through. Remove the film and cord in spring.
Tips and common mistakes
Apply tape and cord when the surface is above about 40°F (5°C), or the adhesive will not grip.
Press rope caulk in firmly but do not stretch it, as stretched cord springs back and opens the gap again.
Keep the hairdryer moving over the film so you do not melt a hole in the plastic.
Never seal a window that is your fire escape, and steady any ladder or step stool on a level floor.
Questions
Can I still open the window after sealing it?
With rope caulk and shrink film, no. They are seasonal seals meant to come off in spring. Use foam tape on windows you still want to open.
Will rope caulk damage the paint or wood?
It is made to peel away cleanly, but old or flaky paint can lift with it. Test a small spot in a corner first.
Which fix should I use where?
Rope caulk for thin cracks along the frame, foam tape for gaps where the sash meets the frame, and a shrink film kit for a whole loose single pane.
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.
