Carbon Reduction: A Simple Way to Start Powering Down Our Houses

Castle Tapestry
The Original Heavy Curtains

Heavy Duty Window
Insulation with
Pillows and Puffs

One way to start reducing your carbon footprint is to insulate. In this way Summer's are cooler indoors, while Winter's are warmer.

This blog is really only pertaining to windows that are not for day to day use. Rather about the windows in your home, condo, or apartment that are simply excessive.

Carpeting

For Centuries Tapestries have hung over a Castle's Windows, and this time is not any different. Area Rugs can be quite thick, which is key to increasing the r-values.

A single pane of .90 R (1/4 inch) can go as high as 3 with carpeting. (r-value .7-2.1 for carpets).

Cardboard

Cardboard is another method; covered by batting and fabric similar to a pillow. The r-value of cardboard is stated around 3-3.4, so with a typical thin quilt batting at approx 2 r-value; when rolled over 3-4 times. The r-value is closer to 5-5.4.

Results

So, you will get a higher r-factor from the cardboard method, however the carpet method is quicker and easier. (if you double the carpet, then you could increase the value to 6, the same or more than the cardboard pillows.)

Bonus Factors

Sound proofing from the outdoors is another plus, esp. for shy singers.

Instructions for The Carpet Method:

Another bonus factor to consider is... the reduction of ozone-free light, light direct from the sun itself; which can be very dangerous. Bringing UV radiation, skin damage, cataracts, skin cancer, weakened immune systems etc.

Second Hand Carpet:
1.) Cut to specs, (be careful with the carpet shears or knife), leaving at least an inch extra on the top or botton
If the carpet slips or buckles, double the carpet and/or use a wooden stick diagonally to prop it up.

Instructions for The Cardboard Method:

Window pillows in effect, though slightly thinner than a normal pillow.

The No-Sew Method:
1.) Tape the carboard together, then wrap the batting and tie with a string,
2.) Cover with fabric and tie the fabric with a string.