Easy2 How-To

To see the animated tutorial visit: http://www.easy2diy.com/cm/easy/diy_ht_3d_index.asp?page_id=35757288

Applying Temporary Weatherstripping

OVERVIEW

Introduction

As your home is very temperamental, it is important to be aware of sudden temperature changes to avoid high heating and cooling bills. Being a homeowner, you know that heating and cooling costs account for a significant portion of your monthly bills. After you have installed permanent window insulation in your windows, you may find that your windows could use some additional insulation - especially in extremely cold or hot climates, and in older homes with single pane windows. The three different types of weatherstripping that will be addressed in this tutorial are caulking cord, plastic sheeting - exterior treatment, and interior treatment.

BEFORE You Start...

Skill Level & Time to Complete

• Beginner - 20 to 30 minutes per window

• Intermediate - 15 to 20 minutes per window

• Advanced - 10 to 15 minutes per window

- Always use caution if working in high places.

SHOPPING LIST

Materials List

   Caulk Cord

   Plastic Sheeting

   Stretch Plastic Insulation Kit

Tools List

   Staple Gun

   Damp Rags

1.	Caulking Cord. You can use caulking cord on the interior or exterior of your windows. Simply unroll and press the cord into the creases between the sash and the casing of your windows. Do not forget to press the cord into the space between your top and bottom sash.
2.	Plastic Sheeting: Exterior Treatment. Depending on the sheeting kit you prefer, you may install plastic sheeting on the outside or inside of your windows. Outside sheeting is less noticeable from the inside of your home, but can be more difficult to install and remove as you will most likely need to use a ladder to reach high windows. Follow the manufacturer's directions, as there are several options available. Typically, you will use a staple gun to staple the plastic sheeting to the top of the window casing.
3.	Stretch the sheeting and staple to the top and bottom of your window's casing.
4.	Now do the same for the sides of your windows. Stapling one side and stretching and stapling to the other side.
5.	Trim the excess plastic sheeting so that it is not easily noticeable.

6.	Plastic Sheeting: Interior Treatment. You can use a shrink wrap kit on the interior of the window to eliminate drafts and moisture from the interior of your windows. Many of these products involve using a hair dryer to make the sheeting tight and invisible. These kits are for interior use only, and are not noticeable from the outside of your home. First, stretch the sheeting from the top to the bottom of your window.
7.	Then stretch the plastic from side-to-side. The plastic should fit like kitchen plastic wrap.
8.	Using a hairdryer, shrink-wrap the product to your window so that it becomes nearly invisible.