3M Indoor Window Insulation, Insulator Kit for 5 Windows 3ft x 5ft, Keeps Cold Air Out and Warm Air In, Includes Heat Shrink Window Film and Scotch Window Film Mounting Tape (2141W-6)

This could have gone one of two ways. Either it was going to be a huge pain in my butt to do and I'd end up just tossing the whole mess out in a big plastic ball of sweaty frustration, or it would just work. Well, I'm here to tell you that this stuff works! I have two gigantic 3'x7' "picture windows" that have zero window coverings. They face my lake view. I was using a blanket to cover them which, while it worked, made the house dark, and really, who wants to spend 6 months out of the year not lookin' at the view I bought this house for?!?!... So, this was my cheap first attempt at getting rid of the blankets and not spending any money (yet) on window treatments. There was PLENTY of plastic and PLENTY of tape for my use. In fact I only used one roll of tape. I thought it would be messy, clingy, wrapping up on itself, sticking to what it wasn't supposed to, and in the end, hard to see out of. It was/is NONE of those things. I am pretty handy for a gal, so this was within my abilities, but really, as long as you have full range of motion (can hold your hands up to apply the tape and the plastic), then you are "skilled" enough to apply this. I can see through it. It was easy to make minor adjustments on the outside edges once applied. I used the hair dryer, and it did "melt" away the small tiny ripples (they were barely noticeable to begin with). The only "tip" I have is before putting the tape on the window (sticky on the window side, paper on the side facing you), unpeel part of the paper and bend it in towards the tape to make a little folded tab so that when you are ready to pull the paper off you can just grab the little "tab" and rip it off. My first window I did not do this and I think I spent more time trying to get that danged paper off the back than I did on any other aspect of the project. And it was by far the only frustrating part of the entire project. I have attached some photos to show you how well you can see through it, and how well it works on a relatively large window. I live in a 1970 mobile, so every little seal counts. To be honest, I don't even see me pulling it off in the summer. I have a heat pump, and this will help keep the cool air in on those hot days. Since I can see out of it, and you really don't know it's there unless someone points it out, why take it down and do it again 6 months later? If you are on the fence, jump off and just do it.

Living in a region with chilly winters, drafty windows can turn a cozy home into an energy-sapping nightmare. That's where the 3M Indoor Window Insulation Kit comes in. Designed to create an insulating air pocket between your window pane and your living space, this particular kit caters to five standard-sized windows, each up to 3ft x 5ft. Having used similar 3M kits for years, I can confidently say this product is a surprisingly effective and budget-friendly solution for combating cold drafts and high heating bills. Product Overview & Key Features: The 3M Indoor Window Insulation Kit for 5 windows includes: 5 Sheets of High-Clarity Shrink Film: Each measuring approximately 42" x 62" (designed for windows up to 3'x5' with sufficient overlap for taping). 1 Roll of 3M Scotch Brand Double-Sided Acrylic Window Kit Tape: This is crucial – 3M's tape is generally superior to generic alternatives, offering strong adhesion without excessive residue upon removal. The core principle is simple: clean your window frames, apply the double-sided tape, adhere the film, and then use a hairdryer to shrink it taut and clear. This creates an invisible barrier that significantly reduces heat loss. Performance & Effectiveness (5/5 Stars): This is where the 3M kit truly shines. The difference it makes is nothing short of dramatic. Draft Elimination: Cold drafts are instantly eliminated. You'll notice the immediate absence of that chilling breeze near your windows. Temperature Increase: The surface temperature of the interior glass rises noticeably. Rooms that felt perpetually cold, especially near windows, become significantly warmer and more consistent in temperature. Energy Savings: By reducing heat loss, your furnace won't have to work as hard, directly translating into lower heating bills. This kit pays for itself, often within a month or two, depending on your energy costs and the severity of your drafts. Noise Reduction (Minor): While not its primary purpose, the added layer of film can offer a slight, subtle reduction in outside noise. Installation (3.5/5 Stars): Installation is generally straightforward, but it requires patience, attention to detail, and a bit of a knack to get it perfect. Preparation is Key: Start with meticulously clean, dry window frames. Any dust, dirt, or grease will compromise the tape's adhesion. This step cannot be skipped! Applying the Tape: Apply the double-sided tape smoothly and continuously around the entire perimeter of the window frame. Ensure it's firmly pressed down and there are no gaps. Applying the Film: This is arguably the trickiest part, especially for larger windows. Unroll the film carefully, ensuring it doesn't stick to itself or the floor. Start by adhering it to the top tape strip, then slowly work your way down the sides, keeping it as taught and wrinkle-free as possible. It's often easier with two people for bigger windows. Don't press too hard until you're sure of the positioning, as readjusting can be messy. Shrinking with Heat: Using a hairdryer (a heat gun on a low setting also works, but be extra careful), starting from one corner, gently wave the heat across the film. You'll see it instantly tighten, smooth out wrinkles, and become crystal clear. Keep the hairdryer moving to avoid overheating and potentially tearing the film. Don't aim for absolute perfection initially; the shrinking process does most of the work. Tips for Success: Work Clean: A dust-free environment prevents unsightly specks getting trapped under the film. Measure Twice: Ensure you have adequate film overlap for the tape. Be Patient: Don't rush the process, especially the film application and shrinking. Hairdryer Technique: Use steady, sweeping motions. Overheating can cause holes. Appearance (4/5 Stars): When installed correctly, the film shrinks to be remarkably clear and virtually invisible from a distance. It creates a smooth, almost glass-like surface. Up close, you might notice a slight distortion or a faint sheen, but for the most part, it effectively disappears. However, if not shrunk properly, if dust gets trapped, or if the film is stretched unevenly, it can be noticeable. It's a temporary solution, so while it doesn't add to your decor, it doesn't detract significantly either. Durability & Removal (4/5 Stars): The film is surprisingly robust once shrunk and can easily last an entire heating season. It resists minor bumps and pokes without tearing easily. When spring arrives, removal is generally simple. Just peel off the film and then the tape. 3M's tape is designed to minimize residue, but on older, porous paint or unfinished wood, you might find some adhesive residue that requires a gentle cleaner (like Goo Gone or rubbing alcohol) to remove. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first. Value for Money (5/5 Stars): Given its effectiveness in reducing heating costs and improving comfort, this kit offers exceptional value. For a relatively small investment, you get a significant return in terms of warmth and savings. It's an ideal solution for renters who can't replace windows, or homeowners looking for a cost-effective alternative to expensive window upgrades.

Lo compré porque decia que el paquete llevababa con dos rollos de cinta. Mi paquete solo tiene una. Era la razon que habia comprado el kit... No podia encontrar solo la cinta. Y ahora, no tengo suficiente para hacer la faena.

I cannot compare to any other year, as only been in this property this winter. I'd heard previous people had had high heating bills, so used this to add to my being efficient. I plan to leave it on all year, for as long as possible. I can comment on application. Yes, a bit of a fiddle, but, do the cutting as best you can,. I laid mine out on clean table, measured, dabbed blacker pen dots to guide my cut. When applying to window, I also carefully cut sticky tape to shape to pass by the window handle section. It worked. The film still adhered tightly. The hairdryer works brilliantly, I scoped the hotair to and fro over the film and stopped when it was taut, not over-taut. After a few weeks, the film attracts a very fine deposit from the atmosphere. Wipe with dry cloth. You really only see this if sun shines directly on it. I watch birds thru this filmed-over window, and it is nearly 100%clarity to look through with binoculars. 1.5 year later update: took it all off, it started to attract tiny black harvest flies behind it. I am impressed it did the job for far longer than I thought it would. A side bit of fun was - when a fly tries to get to the window glass it poings off the plastic like it is bouncing off a trampoline. My old stone house has been insulated now so I may not use this again.

The film is very thin and can easily get pierced by sharp object if not careful. Has to be installed at least an inch away from glass pane to be effective.

This really works! I have an old 1940s home in Victoria with the old sash windows. You could feel the chill coming through them and our heater would run constantly throughout the day, never reaching 20 degrees. If I didn't put a timer on it, it would never turn off! I read a casestudy on this film via the Victoria Sustainability website and it said it does help reduce chill and retain some heat so I thought I'd give it a go. I'm glad I did. Installation is relatively easy. The tape is forgiving so you can pull off the film to restart as you install. I have shutters on the sash windows so the film is completely hidden on the inside, meaning I didn't have to be perfect when sticking the film down. From the outside, you can't even tell it's installed. note: the film doesn't go onto the window glass, it's supposed to stick on a frame, so there is a gap between it and the window glass, essentially acting like double glazing. You can immediately feel the difference. The chill from the windows are gone and my heater is actually stopping now because it reaches the thermostat temperature! I'm already saving money. I expected some effect, but it's surpassed my expectations. Highly recommended!

Follow the instructions and sealed up my window, perfect solution to keep the heat out of the window.