tin foil on windows

[mndtrp]

I cut the foamboard to fit the window as closely as possible, then foil over the foamboard.

This is what I would do. If you are concerned about HOAs, drug stings or just general aesthetics, you could probably cover the foil with a sheer fabric. It would then look like the back of a curtain, but should still reflect most of the heat. The foamboard would provide additional insulation.

[ladykemma2]

This is what I would do. If you are concerned about HOAs, drug stings or just general aesthetics, you could probably cover the foil with a sheer fabric. It would then look like the back of a curtain, but should still reflect most of the heat. The foamboard would provide additional insulation.

honestly i would just buy the foam board from hobby lobby and fit it to each window. the polished look of the good stuff from hobby lobby (white or ecru) would look like curtains from the outside.

i would skip the aluminum foil

those insulating curtains from target work quite well.

won't this turn the inside of your house into a tomb? seasonal depression from lack of light... no thanks.

[MaryCarney]

I only put it on the windows that were most troublesome - and only for the hours of the day where they got direct sun.
I'm solar powered - I can't stand not having daylight - but I also cannot stand trying to cook in a kitchen where the air temp was the same as the oven temp, KWIM??

[krbshappy71]

Just a tip, folks, I just covered 2 tote lids (rubbermaid totes) with foil, and put them in my main window. Its really handy as they stand up easily on their own in the window-frame. The foil wrapped around the edges, didn't need tape, just curled the ends on the edges of the tote handle/edges. Here's hoping it helps! I only did this on the window that faces my backyard, my other neighbor on the other side would probably squawk if I did it on their side. (which does make it all the more tempting but that side isn't as hot in the afternoons)