Storm Windows

Older homes often used storm windows on the outside or inside of traditional double hung windows. Storm windows provide extra insulation and keep your home less susceptible to cold and heat. One study showed that adding storm windows could increase a home’s energy efficiency by 29%.

If you live in an older home, adding storm windows is a relatively inexpensive way to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Many people choose adding storm windows to older homes to avoid the large expense of replacement windows. Storm windows are installed on the outside or inside of your home on top of your regular double hung wooden windows. Storm windows have no panes, making them hardly noticeable from the outside or inside of your home. This makes them a great choice for historic homes and other homes where the owner is particularly interested in retaining the home’s original windows, but would like to improve energy efficiency as well.

Aluminum storm windows are one of the most popular choices. These windows are lightweight and fairly inexpensive. Your storm windows can function in place, year-round, or can be removed from windows for ventilation during milder weather. They can be customized to fit any size rectangular window and some manufacturers advertise the ability to fit a variety of geometric shaped windows.

Storm windows are fairly simple to install. They typically have mounting brackets made of vinyl or metal that are attached to the interior window frame. The panes are detachable and made of glass or acrylic. Panes also come in low-E glazing, which reduces heat gain, and UV resistant glaze, which reduces UV damage to your furniture.

If you want to open your windows for fresh air and circulation during nice weather, be careful of the type of storm windows you choose. Interior storm windows must typically be removed, while exterior storm windows can often be raised or lowered. For this reason, exterior storm windows are often considered more convenient, because they don’t have to be removed during mild weather months.

If you’re interested in buying storm windows for your home, there are many different manufacturers who make a variety of styles. Shop around, as prices can vary significantly, depending upon the window material and manufacturer.

Storm windows can be a cost effective way to make your home more energy efficient, while retaining your home’s original windows. Adding storm windows is a simple way to protect your home’s character and lower your heating bills at the same time.