What do I need to know about polyethylene or rigid plastic interior storm windows?
Installing plastic sheeting over the window is an inexpensive and easy way to improve the heat retention of your home and reduce condensation. The plastic will be less durable than glass and will have to be re-installed each year if the windows are opened. There is an inexpensive kit on the market that has a plastic sheet that is heat-shrunk in place using a hair dryer. This system is best for windows in seldom-used rooms and basements. A do-it-yourself plastic storm window is available, made of a sheet of rigid plastic and a specially designed snap-in frame. Some types use a magnetic strip to hold the plastic in place. The mounting strip is permanently attached to the window frame, and the strip pops open to accommodate the plastic sheets. The sheet can then be removed and stored in the summer. The sheets must be handled carefully, because they scratch easily.
