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Storm windows provide minimal insulation effects, however they are excellent for dramatically reducing air flow around your home’s existing windows.

Storm Window Selection - Types

Storm window selection starts with understanding the variety of types and styles. Some types can be easily installed by the homeowner. There are interior and exterior storm windows. Each is installed onto your home’s existing windows. The least expensive are plastic films that are disposable. They are good for a single winter season.  The most expensive are triple track storm windows that are effectively permanent extensions of your main windows, and that will last for years. Some of the higher end storm windows come with low-e coatings on the glass. Others offer high levels of breaking resistance.

Exterior storm windows can be almost as expensive as some primary windows, and as a result, it may be worth evaluating the cost of installing new primary windows in the home if you are getting quotes on exterior storm windows.

Storm window frames are usually constructed with vinyl, aluminum or wood. There are pros and cons with each. Wood frames age poorly, require maintenance and are heavy; however they provide some level of insulation. Aluminum frames are extremely light and strong; however they have poor insulation capabilities. Vinyl frames are also light; however they too have limited insulation qualities and are susceptible to the aging effects of UV light, e.g. cracking, warping and fading.

Storm Window Selection - Quality Factors

When selecting storm windows, there are number of quality factors you should check.

• The deeper the storm window’s sash track the better. Deeper sack tracks translate into reduced air movement.

• Overlapped corners are better than mitered cuts, as they prevent less air flow.

• When it comes to aluminum storm windows, anodized frames last better than ones that are not. 

• Weather stripping is another key factor associated with a storm window’s quality.

Storm window Selection - Installation

Storm windows can be ordered and purchased from just about any home improvement store. Typically the home improvement store will send an associate out to measure the existing windows and to determine what is the best type of storm window for your home. It is critical that the measuring is done properly to ensure the storm windows fit tightly onto the main windows.

Once the storm windows have been measured, ordered and delivered, the home improvement store, a contractor, or you can install them. If you choose to install them yourself, you will need a few basic tools, including screw drivers, a drill, a square, and caulk.

It is important that the storm windows be hung square with the existing main window as they will otherwise not operate correctly.

- Storm Window Selection -

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