Insulating windows

Hi Tom,
Has anyone come up with a good solution to insulate windows on cloudy
days and long winter nights? Even with argon filled low e units, this
seems to be the greatest source of heat loss after insulating walls,
attic and basement. I was told by the distributor of very costly roll
up window quilts that they "are NOT an energy saving device", so
needless to say he was less than convincing at selling them to me. I
suspect condensation could become a problem with many designs. It seems
that urethane foam board could be fashioned into interior shutters with
wallpaper, fabric or contact paper covering. Perhaps hinges, some sort
of foam weather stripping gasket and Velcro or magnetic cabinet latches
could be attached? Maybe a wood frame would be needed? Unfortunately,
I have difficulties receiving the Hot and Cold broadcast now that I live
in central Maine. I'm happy to see your column in the BDN.
Alan Majka

Hi Alan,
Window Quilts actually do a decent job, as do Duette shades. The side and
bottom seals are critical for condensation prevention.
Pop in foam shutters can do an excellent job. The limitation is where to
put them when they are not in use.
There are triple glazed high performance windows kicking around, but they
are pricey.
The Shelter Institute in Woolwich used to have a wide variety of DIY window
insulation materials available.
Tom