Chase Away the Cold With These Drafty Window Fixes

CENTURY 21 Mertz & Associates February 24, 2026

They could be historical, modern, or even high-quality, but if your windows are drafty, you've got a problem. When winter temps set in, those drafty windows can make the inside of your home feel downright frosty and increase your heating bill beyond your comfort zone. Fortunately, there are many simple ways to chase away the cold and have you warm and toasty without shelling out big money for a replacement. Consider these quick drafty window fixes from our real estate agents.

Cover the Windows with Clear Plastic Sheeting

Window insulation kits that seal the window with plastic shrink film are available online or from your local hardware store. These kits include plastic sheeting and double-sided tape. The sheeting looks like plastic wrap and must be spread around the window from the inside and held in place with double-sided tape. Once in place, you heat the plastic with a hairdryer so it shrinks to look like another glass pane and achieves an air-tight seal.
Install Weatherstripping

Repairing, replacing, or adding weatherstripping around drafty windows is an easy and effective way to create a tight seal. There are many types of weatherstripping worth considering, including expanding spray foam weatherstripping, felt weatherstripping, and V-seal weatherstripping. Weatherstripping comes in various sizes, costs little, and is easy to install. Just get your supplies, clean the window jambs, shut the windows, and install the weatherstripping tape.
Caulk Those Cracks

Window caulking seals cracks like nothing else. Unfortunately, caulk tends to degrade over time, opening small cracks and gaps that let in cold air. To apply caulk, start by checking around the window frames for any cracks and openings. Caulk can be applied around the window trim, at mitered corners, and between the frame and trim. Before applying caulk, make sure you clean the window area and that it's free from old caulk and dust. If you have gaps you can insert a fingertip into, use gap filler, and then apply removable caulk for added protection.
Apply Bubble Wrap

Consider using bubble wrap to seal the drafty window. This low-cost/no-cost solution reduces heat loss and is easy to set up. Bubble wrap is sold by the roll, but if you already have it, simply cut it to size and keep it in place with double-sided tape. The bigger the bubble in the plastic, the better because it will trap more air and insulate more effectively.
Purchase or Make a Draft Snake

If the bottom of your window leaks cold air, purchase a draft stopper or make your own. "Draft snakes" are long tubes filled with foam/rice/sand and placed where there's a leak to prevent warm air from escaping your home. Cut the foam tube to length to make sure it perfectly matches its placement and slip a washable cover over it.
Use Physical Barriers

If a door snake isn't sufficient, swap out your lightweight curtains for heavier, insulation boosting blinds, layered curtains, draperies, and shades. These offer a great way to block pesky drafts from the perimeter. You can always open them during the day to let sunlight in and close them in the evening to keep drafts out and warm air in. Wool blankets over the window can also help chase away the cold.
Consider Storm Windows

Storm windows are secondary windows that fit right into your existing window frames to reduce air leaks. They don't change the look of your windows or home's exterior and require minimal effort to install. Storm windows add an extra layer of insulation and cost less than a full window replacement.

Contact us today for more information about preparing your home for winter and getting it ready to list among the many great Danville homes for sale.