Storm windows are an affordable way to increase your home’s energy efficiency without replacing existing windows. According to the US Department of Energy, they can save you up to 25% in heating and cooling costs.
They provide protection from weather elements and noise pollution. With a range of colors to choose from, you can blend in or stand out depending on your tastes and home decor.
1. Wood
Storm windows are an affordable, straightforward way to add extra protection to the exterior of your home. Not only do they improve energy efficiency and privacy, but they’re easy to install too – providing added comfort and security all at once!
Wood is a timeless choice for storm windows due to its aesthetic appeal and superior weather resistance. However, wood frames tend to be heavier than metal ones and may expand or contract with temperature changes.
Wood storm windows come in an array of colors and finishes. Some feature insulated glass to reduce heat transfer between your home’s interior and exterior. You may also opt for a low-emissivity coating for additional energy efficiency.
To properly install a storm, measure your window openings and subtract 1/4” from both width and height measurements. Doing this ensures your new storm fits securely without shifting or performing poorly.
Next, ensure the casings on your windows match what is already there. Double-hung windows should have their meeting rails lined up with the mullions on the main sashes; single-hung windows may need to resize the mullions to fit within their casings.
In some cases, a rabbet or groove may be necessary along the inside of frame pieces to accommodate glazing and putty. You can create this look using either a shaper or heavy-duty router attached to a router table.
Once your frame pieces are ready, you can install glazing and putty to create a weather-tight seal between the glass and frame. Additionally, using a window sill expander will enable your window to sit flush against an angled sill of your window opening.
You can also install a double-wing clip (pictured to the right) for added security. These clips, instead of hooks, help reduce moisture that seeps under storm windows and into the window frame.
Storm and screen companies that specialize in traditional wooden storms with aluminum glazed or screen sashes can also build custom sizes and shapes to fit your home’s exterior perfectly. Plus, these professionals are more likely to use quality paint and finish for added longevity.
2. Vinyl
Storm windows provide a practical, cost-effective solution for homeowners who don’t want to replace all their windows during the wintertime. Prices for storm windows tend to be lower than standard replacement options and come in various sizes to suit any need.
Vinyl storm windows have become a go-to in the Midwest due to their ease of upkeep and durability. Plus, these energy efficient windows can be tailored to fit any design specifications.
Installing and maintaining sliding windows is a cinch, as they don’t need special cleaning solutions like many other types of windows do. In fact, you can even use products already in your home to keep them looking their best!
Vinyl windows began as a budget-friendly choice, but have since become one of the top choices for homeowners due to their affordability and aesthetic appeal. Plus, unlike wood or aluminum frames, vinyl windows can easily be repaired or replaced if broken.
Vinyl has the distinct advantage over wood and aluminum in that it won’t rot, warp, or expand when exposed to moisture. Not only that, but vinyl looks better too – which could increase your home’s value and curb appeal.
These windows are more cost-effective than other options and can be tailored to fit any window opening. Choose from single hung, double hung or sliding options in a range of styles and colors that complement your home.
Storm windows are an effective way to weatherproof and secure your old windows, keeping them from leaking and damaging your home. Not only that, but storm windows also shield your house from external elements while keeping everyone comfortable throughout the year.
Casement windows, bay windows and sliding windows come in a range of styles to choose from; plus they’re highly energy efficient which could help lower your heating bills.
Vinyl windows were first produced in Germany during the late 1950s and early 1960s, before making their way to America. BF Goodrich Company recognized the advantages of vinyl windows and decided to begin manufacturing them here as well. They changed the design of the windows to make them look sleeker and modern – which helped boost their popularity throughout America.
3. Aluminum
Aluminum storm windows are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their lightweight, durability and low-maintenance requirements. Furthermore, these windows are corrosion-resistant and can last up to 35 years with proper care depending on how well they’re treated.
They save energy, helping a home maintain an ideal temperature more cost effectively. Furthermore, they block out wind, dust and other outdoor sounds with insulation; decreasing air leakage into your residence.
Selecting the ideal storm window can be a challenge. Take into account your window opening’s size and what they will be used for; if they’re double-hung, consider an exterior storm with two tracks. Conversely, awning or casement windows require interior storms that open to let in fresh air and close tightly in wintertime.
In addition to their practical advantages, these windows can add a touch of curb appeal to a home. They can be custom designed with various color finishes and panel materials for added visual interest.
The two-track model of exterior storm is the most common option, featuring glass panes on separate tracks. When the top pane is raised, revealing the screen panel beneath; when the bottom pane is lowered, concealing it.
This type of window can be installed in new construction or on existing homes, making it a simple DIY job with some carpentry skills required.
Some of the more sophisticated designs feature overlapping corner joints and weather-stripping that seals around all edges of windows, making them stronger. Low-e glass can also be framed with this protective layer which blocks UV and infrared rays from entering into your house, preventing heating or cooling loss.
Most exterior storm windows are designed for double-hung windows, but you may find some that fit awning or casement windows as well. Before purchasing them, measure the openings to make sure they will fit and make sure they have sufficient glazing depth; otherwise, your storm windows may not function correctly.
4. Plastic
Plastic storm windows are the most cost-effective solution to reduce energy loss through existing wood-framed windows, combat noise pollution and add privacy. They come with low-e glass and various weatherstripping features that ensure they’re airtight and resistant to mold, mildew and rot.
Exterior storm windows typically consist of a single glass pane and half-screen that slides up or down to let in air. They come in two-track configuration (two-track slider) for double-hung windows, as well as the triple-track design which protrudes from the window. Additionally, some triple track models come with basement or picture storm windows which slide into primary openings to stop rain from entering your home.
These windows are often found on historic homes, condos and other long-term rental properties due to their affordability and ease of installation. High windows also often benefit from these installations as they protect them from water damage while keeping the interior temperature comfortable.
Storm windows feature drainage holes at the bottom of their frames to help drain moisture that collects between them and primary windows. This is an essential feature, as it prevents condensation from building up inside or on top of them – which could damage or cause leaks in a primary window.
Modern storm windows also create a space between the primary and insulating panel to improve thermal performance. This dead air space reduces convective and conductive heat losses from the primary window, increasing comfort by keeping it warmer.
For added insulation, opt for exterior storm windows with glass or acrylic panes. These can be glazed with low-e or tempered glass to meet Energy Star standards.
Some units feature compression fit, a vinyl sealing strip that presses into the window jamb to form an airtight seal. Others utilize magnetic strips which attach to the window jamb, and some utilize soft silicone gaskets.
Interior storm windows may also be made from acrylic with a low-e coating to meet Energy Star standards. These are more cost-effective than exterior units and come in double or single acrylic panels attached to vinyl compression seals.
