Window insulation

Ken68

I have several 8'x4' sheets of 2" rigid polystyrene,(freebies from a retiring flat roof specialist) and so far have cut one to fit a double glazed bathroom window. The edges are bound with duck tape and fits into the window frame by compression. Doesn't look too bad and with the blind down not noticeable. This is for night use only, and wondered what other MSE members thought.
Do you think I ought to do all the windows, including bedroom and living rooms.???
Early days to see if there is any noticeable reduction in gas central heating readings.

Cardew

2" thick? - must weigh a ton!

I saw some figures giving the average percentage heat loss through single/double/triple glazed windows and the conclusion was it wasn't worth the cost of installing them as the losses were not that significant. Worth getting them on initial build though.

Heavy curtains are almost as effective; although you wouldn't want them drawn during the day.

Ken68

Perhaps I have the name wrong...expanded polystyrene...light as a feather....works OK in the recess of small windows, but awkward to handle trying to fit into standard windows with curtains.
Wouldn't have thought to try it on windows overnight, except they were free, and taking up space.

christabell

Although I have Double Glazing last year I invested in "Black-Out" curtains, and trust me this insulated the home even more. I honestly believe that the investment for the curtains has saved me on heating bills.

I bought the curtains for my bedroom from a mail order catalogue, was so delighted in the increased heat in the room. I decided that I would put two more pairs in my lounge, surfed the net until I found the best prices.

Will be delighted to share the company with you if allowed.

adr0ck

how safe is this stuff?

your not really supposed to breathe it in

are you wearing dust masks at night?

Ken68

As far as I know, AdrOck, the stuff is inert, nothing to breathe in, unlike the fibres from loft insulation fibreglass.Will research.
You got me worried now, tho no noticeable effect YET :-) apart from MSE addiction.
Agree, Christabell, about Black Out curtains, the longer the heat is kept from escaping the better.

Ken68

I wouldn't recommend this now.....research on Google, says possible hazard...thank you AdrOck for the alert.....

Quote...Styrofoam:
Combustible and if exposed to an intense fire may burn rapidly. Contains a
flame retardant additive to inhibit accidental ignition from a small fire
source. Will melt when brought into direct contact with high temperature
heat sources: do not expose the boards to flame or other ignition sources.
The recommended maximum continuous operation temperature is 75°C...Unquote


Quote..Kingspan K7:
No info regarding combustibility but probably similar to polystyrene (IMO).
Negligible smoke emission. Class 1 surface spread of flame to BS 476: Part
7:1987 and Class 0 to the Building Regulations....Unquote.

......tho these rigid polystyrene sheets are used for flat roof insulation, so probably approved when enclosed , tho not otherwise.

Quite a bit in Google group discussions.