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If your windows rattle easily (and not just when
the kids turn the music up loud!) you'll likely lose
a lot of heated air this winter. In fact, the heat
you lose through your windows can account for 10
to 25 percent of your heating costs! Take advantage
of the good fall weather to prepare for colder, windy
days ahead by giving your home's windows a good long
look.
About that rattling -- if the windows are loose
in the frame, heated air can escape. A little caulking
can solve the problem inexpensively. Rope caulking
comes ready to press into place, costs about $5 per
window and is easy to remove in the spring. If your
window glass is very loose, you may need to reglaze
them with glazing compound or putty, which is permanent.
It's not a difficult task and it can really pay off.
If your windowpanes are okay but you don't have
storm windows and want an extra layer of protection,
try clear plastic film. It may not look like much,
but that thin layer of film creates a dead air space,
which is a great insulator. Kits come with film and
double-sided tape, are simple to use, and the film
is almost invisible after it is heated and tightened
into the space with a hair dryer.
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