Seal Existing Windows or Finance New Ones

With windows responsible for roughly 30% of your home’s heat gain and loss, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, sealing your existing windows delivers big bang for your buck, helping you better control inside temperature and block outside noise and dust.

Once you have any air gaps sealed, you can move on to enhance window performance with window film*, interior coverings*, and exterior coverings*. With an energy improvements loan through one of our GoGreen Home lenders, new windows bring even more benefits, like increasing your home’s value and adding curb appeal.

Low-Cost Window Weatherproofing Fixes

For window weatherproofing first-timers, a few how-to videos on YouTube can go a long way. To help you navigate the many options in window weatherproofing products at your favorite retailer, we have included the names of common window sealing products and how they are used.

• Apply insulating window film* (a.k.a. shrink film) to reduce solar heat gain in hot inland climates or west-facing exposures
• Apply outdoor stretch film* to the window exterior
• Add window coverings*, like exterior awnings*, interior window quilts*, Roman shades*, or cellular blinds*
• Run rubber foam tape to seal along edges between the window and the window frame
• Install vinyl draft stoppers inside the sill between the window and the frame
• Use adhesive window tape to temporarily seal a window that is rarely opened (not recommended for bedroom windows, from which easy egress is required per fire code)
• Apply draft seal tape to movable window sections or secondary sashes
• Caulk around interior and exterior window frames, using caulk cord (a.k.a. backer rod, rope caulk, poly foam caulk saver) to fill in large gaps before caulking

Long-Term Solution to Inefficient, Drafty Windows

• Replace inefficient windows with ENERGY STAR®-certified windows*

Sealing up window leaks is one of the easiest ways to cut energy waste year-round. When you’re ready for a long-term upgrade, loan rates on home energy upgrades from participating GoGreen Financing lenders make it more affordable to invest in high-performance replacement windows that boost comfort, lower bills, and add value to your home.

(*qualifies for GoGreen Financing)

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Find Participating GoGreen Home Window Contractors.