Storm Windows

Storm windows can be your best way of improving your home’s energy efficiency if you live in an older home or if you can’t afford to replace your home’s windows with more energy efficient low-e windows. 

It is true that storm windows only improve the insulating performance of single-glazed windows slightly, and this providing that the single-glazed windows are in good condition.  However, storm windows can and often do reduce air movement into and out of the home from around the existing windows, which will help to reduce heating and cooling costs.  In addition, the airspace between the storm window and the existing window creates an added insulation factor.

Storm Window Configuration Options:

Storm windows are available in two track, triple track, two track slider, and picture storm windows:  

Two-track storm windows have a half-screen and an outer pane or sash that occupy the outside track.  In the two-track storm window, you cannot slide up or down the pane nor screen.  However, the inside pane which occupies a separate track can be raised to allow in fresh air.

Two-track slider storm windows are made to be used with slider windows and operate in the same manner as regular two-track storm windows, except two-track sliders open horizontally.

Triple-track storm each pane and half-screen can be raised or lowered independently because occupy individual tracks. 

Picture storm windows only have one pane that is held in place with thumb latches located on the outside of the storm window frame.  This allows for easy removal during mild weather.  Some picture storm windows also come with a screen that can be swapped out with the pane in order to keep out insects.

Types of Storm Windows:

Storm windows are available in wood, aluminum, and vinyl frames, with each material having advantages and disadvantages. 

Aluminum Frames:

Advantage- -Strong, light, and nearly maintenance free

Disadvantage—rapidly conduct heat, very poor insulating material

Vinyl Frames:

Advantages--Maintenance free, never needs painting.  When manufactured, most vinyl windows are made of PVC that contains a UV stabilizer to prevent the sunlight from breaking down the vinyl.

Disadvantages—can expand and warp when exposed to high temperatures, and can crack during extremely low temperatures.  In addition, color can fade with exposed to sunlight for long periods during the day.

Wood Frames:

Advantages—Good insulating properties

Disadvantages--Weather with age, expand and contract according to weather conditions, can be quite heavy, making it difficult to store, require yearly maintenance.

How to Measure for Storm Windows:

It is important to measure accurately every window in order to ensure a good fit for each window.  Do not cut corners because all of your windows appear to be the same.

To find the width of the window, measure from the inside of the molding from one side of the window as well as from the center of the window, then from the other side of the window giving you three measurements for the windows width.  You should have measurements for the bottom, middle, and top of the window.  Use the smallest measurement for the width of your storm window.

To find the height of the window, you want to measure from the top to the bottom of the right side of the inside of the windowsill molding, then again for the center of the window, and from the left side of the window, giving you three measurements.  Use the shortest measurement for the height of your storm window.

By using the smallest measurements, you ensure that the storm window's flanges will fit inside the exterior trim.

How to Install Storm Windows:

In order for storm windows to work properly, the storm window frame must be hung square with the primary window and sealed to the opening.  This also ensures that the window will be easy to operate to allow for cleaning and ventilation.