For many cabin owners, new argon-filled, double-paned windows aren’t in the budget. And when that cold wind blows across the lake, those oldy-but-not-too-goody windows often need a little help. No storm windows? Here are a few options to help keep the cabin toasty.
Thermal curtain: An easy install, thermal curtains (also called blackout curtains or drapes) have come a long way in the past decade or two. Advances in insulation and overall appeal now allow a cabin owner to install a more stylish, more effective cold barrier than was available before. On frigid days, the energy savings of thermal curtains can reach upwards of 20%.
Window installation kits: These kits are cheap and effective, and the average DIYer will have no problem installing them. Kits include clear plastic sheeting, which is thermally sealed to the inside of the window frame with a hair dryer. They aren’t durable, and need to be replaced each winter. However, they are transparent, affording you views of the winter wonderland … without the icy drafts.
Window films: There are two basic varieties of window films, which are applied directly to the glass. Solar films, which are meant to reflect sunlight and reduce UV damage, are meant to help keep the house cool. Low emissivity (low-e) films are meant to reflect heat back into the cabin. Typically, professional installation is recommended for window films. The payback for low-e films can be as short as a year or less, but it typically takes 3–5 years to realize the return on your investment.