If you’re having trouble staying warm at home during the winter, there are a lot of things that could be the problem. If nothing is wrong with your heating system, your windows might be the culprit. A home’s windows influence how much cold air seeps in, how much warm air escapes, and how high the energy bill is.

Here are some long-term and short-term tips for how to insulate windows so you can stay warm and save money this winter.

Short-Term Tips on How to Insulate Windows

These solutions for how to insulate windows are effective for a short amount of time. If you are looking for a quick solution, here are some tips from window experts.

Window Insulation Kits

Window insulation kits come with everything you need to make sure your windows do not let warm air escape during cold months. They utilize heat control window film, which does not interfere with the look of your windows. This special film is applied over the window and shrunk using a hairdryer. This barrier keeps the warm air inside and prevents drafts. These kits keep your home warm while also letting natural light in. Window insulation kits provide a quick solution, but will not last long-term.

Weather Stripping

Weather stripping is an adhesive that can be applied to the perimeter of your windows to ensure they are sealed. Weather stripping makes sure that your house stays warm and does not interfere with how your windows function. Just measure your windows, cut the appropriate length of stripping, and apply it to your windows. However, you will find that you need to replace weather stripping often, and it is not an effective long-term solution.

(Side note – Fenster DOES NOT sell weather stripping.)

Draft Snakes

Draft snakes, also known as draft stoppers, address drafts coming from your windows and doors. They are used to cover the small gaps that create drafts while being cost-effective. They are easily seen, but this is also an opportunity to be creative with DIY options. Draft snakes can increase comfort in your home quickly, but will not ensure a long-term, effective solution to the problem.

Thermal Curtains

Thermal curtains are thicker than normal curtains that are meant to trap heat inside. They act as an extra layer of insulation to protect your comfort. You can combine them with window blinds or shades for additional effectiveness. However, these only work when they are closed, meaning your home misses out on natural light. This is an effective solution, but is not sustainable for the long term.

All of these solutions are typically available for local purchase or next-day delivery from a certain online shopping platform.

Long-Term Tips on How to Insulate Windows

There are plenty of quick and easy ways to make your home warmer during the winter for a short time. However, none of these solutions address the main issue: the windows. The best way to address issues with your window is either fixing or replacing them. Once windows are old and worn enough, replacing is the only reliable solution. Old windows could be keeping your home too cold in the winter and driving up energy costs all year round. Replacing old windows will keep your house comfortable and your energy bill down.

Stay Warm Every Winter with Fenster

Fenster offers a cost-effective, reliable way to repair your drafty windows: window sash replacement kits. We create quality sash replicas for brands and models that are no longer available, so you don’t have to worry about finding a suitable brand that will fit your windows. Check out our featured products to find the right option for you!

Still Not Sure?

No problem. Head over to our Hints & Tips or browse our FAQ section to learn more about how our sashes work, how to measure, and what to expect.

Fenster Components – We’re the reason you don’t have to replace your whole window just because one sash bit the dust. You’re welcome.

Updated on 01/11/26