Adding a storm window to your home is a worthwhile investment, and it protects your house against the elements. Don’t be deceived by the name and think that storm windows are just for the rainy seasons because they’re not. Storm windows also keep your homes more relaxed during the summer and warmer in the winter.
Generally, storm windows serve as additional windows, either inside or outside the primary window. Although they are not designed to be replacement windows, people often install them as such for a lower cost. Storm windows keep outdoor sounds from entering your house, and they can also prolong the life of your main window.
Are you planning to add one to your house? Here are some things you need to know when installing storm windows.
What You Should Know About Storm Windows
The first storm windows were introduced during the 1930s as a weather-resistant alternative to wooden frame storm windows. The earliest storm windows were made of steel that tended to rust. After 1945, rustproof aluminum storm windows took off. Aside from being made of aluminum and enamel coated for corrosion resistance, you need to know the other features of storm windows.
1. Comes With Low Emissive Glass
Storm windows have low-emissive glasses making them energy efficient. First introduced in 1979, low-emissive glasses are starting to grow in popularity. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, this technology allows storm windows to reduce energy bills by as much as 30 percent.
Storm windows with low-emissive glasses also help reduce the fading of fabrics. Always look for the Energy Star label when buying storm windows.
2. Cheaper Than Replacement Windows
Although double-pane windows with high-performance glasses are also cost-effective, storm windows can generate similar energy efficiency but at about ⅓ of the cost. The Attachment Energy Rating Council or AERC highly rates it. Because it limits air movement into and out of an existing window, storm windows contribute to reducing heating and cooling costs.
3. Helps Improve Security
Storm windows have reinforced screens and multipoint locks and are highly durable. They can withstand any attempts of forceful entry. It helps improve the security of your home without having to install additional bars on your windows.
4. Easy to Maintain
Storm windows require no special maintenance. However, you may need to wipe them with a soft cloth regularly. From time to time, check if they need minor repairs on the glass coating or if the frame needs to be replaced.
5. Reduces Outside Noise
With its additional insulation, storm windows can help block outside noise. They help reduce sound transmission by more than 50%. Storm windows vary in thickness and glazing, which can contribute to their sound-reducing abilities. Generally, storm windows are handy for those living near highways or other loud areas.
Types of Storm Windows
There are three types of storm windows you can find in the market. Below, you can learn more about each type of storm window to help you decide which is best for you.
- Interior Storm Windows. This storm window type fits into the interior window frame, and homeowners can choose between vinyl or aluminum frames. The most common materials used for the window are solid glass, vinyl, or acrylic sheets which are mounted for a few months or can be a stand-alone window that can open. Additionally, they are easy to install and usually pop into place.
- Exterior Storm Windows. These usually come with pre-drilled holes for easy installation. This type of storm window is available in different configurations:
- Two-track configurations consist of a fixed half-pane of glass and a fixed screen on a similar track. The second track has a sliding movable glass pane that opens upward.
- Two-track sliders have the same features as the two-track storm windows except that their movable panes are designed for horizontal opening instead of up and down.
- Triple track storm windows consist of a pair of movable glass and movable screens in separate tracks. This can result in flexible air ventilation.
- Basement storm windows have only one popping-out pane for airflow
- Temporary or Disposable Storm Windows. From the name itself, brief windows are installed during the coldest months and disposed of after use. They are available as a single acrylic panel that fits inside a window pane.
Installing Storm Windows
Installing storm windows requires no special tools or skills. You need to attach interior storm windows to the main window. Generally, they use magnets or compression to keep interior storm windows in place.
In the case of exterior storm windows, you will need some DIY skills and be comfortable working on ladders. If DIY is not your tea, you can hire a window installation company to install the exterior window.
Protect Yourself With Storm Windows
Storm windows help keep you comfortable and cozy during the cold season and throughout the year. It is a significant investment that requires careful thought. If you’re thinking about installing storm windows, give Muhler a call. They offer various products such as windows, doors, and storm protection windows.
