11 Main Pros and Cons of Storm Windows | Storm Windows vs. Replacement Windows
Pros and Cons of Storm Windows | Storm Windows vs. Replacement Windows | Functions of Storm Windows | Cost of Storm Windows
Storm Windows
A storm window is an extra layer of protection against the cold, harsh winter. They are windows that are designed to protect homes from severe weather such as heavy rains, hail storms, snow storms, and hurricanes.
Storm windows are usually made of glass or plastic and can be installed on either side of your existing windows to provide you with an additional barrier between the outside world and your home.
The best way to understand how a storm window works is by imagining it as a blanket that wraps around your entire house.
With this extra layer in place, even if the temperature falls below freezing outside, the inside of your house will still stay warm because all of that cold air has been blocked out.
And unlike other window treatments like curtains, drapes, blinds or shades which only offer some insulation from drafts and chilly breezes; storm windows also protect against intruders trying to break into your home.
The main benefit of storm windows is that they keep the cold air out and the warm air in. This is great for your household budget and your savings account and could even help reduce your heating bill.
Another big pro to storm windows is that they’re relatively inexpensive – especially when compared to other window treatments – and require little maintenance.
Storm windows may last longer than 10 years, but the difference depends on the type of window and the region.
The main reason that storm windows may wear out is because of wear and tear from normal use.
The high winds and extreme temperatures of hurricane season might increase the probability of damage to your home.
Storm windows need to be replaced after about 15-20 years, especially if they were not fabricated using tempered glass or laminated glass.
Storm Windows vs. Replacement Windows
Storm Windows and Replacement Windows present different options for homeowners looking to improve the energy efficiency of their windows.
Storm windows are designed to be installed over existing windows, while replacement windows are meant to replace existing window frames entirely. Storm windows require less installation time and cost less than replacement windows, however they do not provide as much insulation since air can still seep between the storm window and the original window.
Replacement windows offer better insulation than storm windows by creating a sealed unit which offers more protection from outside temperatures. While these new frames may cost more upfront, they are proven to reduce energy bills in the long-term.”
If your existing windows are broken or have extensive cracks that enable wind and weather to enter your house, a replacement window project may be the most cost-effective method to lower your utility expenses while also providing more comfort for your family.
Modern replacement windows are engineered to give more protection from the sun, wind, and heat transmission.
However, if your home’s windows are in good condition, glass storm windows can offer an extra layer of protection from outside air, lowering the cost of heating and cooling.
Storm windows can give the same protection as replacement windows and reduce outside noise. If you have old or drafty windows that need replacing, then it is best to replace them with new ones.
The main difference between storm and replacement windows is that storm windows are typically significantly less expensive than full window replacements, making them an excellent alternative for homeowners on a tight budget.
Replacement Windows typically cost more upfront but the long-term savings make them worth it over time since they can increase insulation levels up to 20%.
Functions of Storm Windows
Storm windows are an essential part of a strong and safe home. Storm windows can be made from metal, wood or PVC and come in many different colors to match your specific style.
Metal storm windows can keep out cold air during the winter months so you don’t have to worry about drafts coming through any cracks between the window frame and siding.
This is especially important if you live in a colder climate where winters last for several months.
It’s also important to protect yourself from flying debris that could break the glass on your existing windows when a tornado hits nearby!
The key functions include;
1. Insulation
The most important purpose of a storm window is to provide additional insulation for your windows. This happens because, as previously stated, the storm window is layered (either on the inside or outside) over the old window.
This adds numerous layers of protective insulation to your property.
The first is the additional layer formed by the storm window itself, whether it is glass or plastic, and the second is the air that exists between the storm window pane and your home’s real window.
Keep in mind that employing a storm window is a more cost-effective alternative than purchasing new energy-efficient windows entirely.
2. Soundproofing
The ability to reduce sound pollution can help maintain a comfortable temperature and reduce heating and cooling costs.
3. Protection
A storm window is a type of window that is installed in an exterior door or window opening to provide protection from wind and rain.
Storm windows are typically made out of metal, aluminum, vinyl, fiberglass, or other materials which can withstand strong winds and heavy rainfall.
Generally, storm windows are an additional layer of protection for your home from the elements. They help block out rain, snow, hail, and high winds. They can also help reduce energy costs by lowering air infiltration and preventing warm air from escaping during winter months.
Storm windows can also provide added insulation against noise pollution and bright sunlight.
In addition to providing physical protection for your home, storm windows offer some aesthetic benefits as well by adding a unique design element to the exterior of your home.
If you live in an area where storms happen frequently then having a storm window could be the best option for keeping your home safe and dry.
Pros of Storm Windows
1. Energy Efficiency:
Storm windows are designed to provide more insulation than regular windows, which helps protect you during the winter months, reducing your heating bills.
2. Noise Reduction:
Storm windows make it more difficult to hear outside noise, which means you can watch TV without hearing your neighbors yelling at their kids or talking on their phones.
3. They Look Good:
Storm windows are available in a variety of colors that can complement your home’s interior decor scheme.
4 Reduces drafts and increases comfort:
Storm windows are designed to prevent drafts at the same time as providing insulation, which helps regulate temperature levels.
5. Costs less that complete window replacement:
Storm windows can be much less expensive than complete window replacement, as they can be used as a partial replacement for your current windows.
Cons of Storm Windows
1. Appear “dirty”:
Storm windows are not as aesthetic as traditional wood or aluminum windows due to dirt and debris accumulating on the glass if the window is not always cleaned.
2. Increased Maintenance:
Storm windows require more maintenance than other types of windows, due to the additional materials used in the installation process.
3. Replacement Cost:
Storm windows are significantly more expensive to replace if damaged or need replacing due to weather damage.
4. Security:
Though storm windows do not provide the same amount of security as an inside window, you can still use them to keep out break-ins, however they are no more secure than the regular windows on the side of your house (the ones that could be broken out easier).
The biggest cons of storm windows are the expense, installation process, and security. Of course, you could always install a security lock to block the glass from being fully removed from the frame.
Other than that, storm windows are just like regular windows.
The main difference is that they are installed on the exterior of your house instead of the interior. They also have added insulation compared to regular windows which can save you money by decreasing your energy bills.
Storm Windows FAQs
What is storm window?
Storm windows are a type of window that can be installed on the outside of an existing window. They provide protection from wind, rain and snow while allowing for natural ventilation during winter.
Storm windows are typically made out of plexiglass or some other transparent material with sturdy frames to keep them in place.
Storm windows are a type of window that is used to block the wind and rain from entering your home.
Storm windows can be made out of many different materials such as plastic, vinyl, or aluminum.
The storm windows will have a frame with a screen in it so they can be opened and closed when needed.
Why are storm windows important?
The storm window is a type of window that provides extra protection to the outer layer. Storm windows also help reduce noise and improve energy efficiency.
The purpose of installing a storm window on top of an existing one is to provide added insulation and protection against wind-driven rain and hail damage to the lower pane.
A storm window can be installed either as a replacement for or in addition to regular windows depending on the climate zone where you live. Storm windows are typically cheaper than new construction because they do not require a new foundation.
Why do storm windows cost less than other window treatments?
The main reason that storm windows are cheaper is due to their low operating cost. Storm windows can be installed quickly and easily, making them a low-cost alternative to installing a customized window frame.
Storm-window frame prices can also vary depending on the type of material used for the body of the glass. This is because the price of glass materials depends on these factors:
- Shape (angle, thickness, etc. of the glass)
- Quality (type of glass, such as laminated or float glass)
- Quantities of the window being manufactured
Pricier window frames are often made from higher-quality types of materials that are stronger, more durable, and cheaper to produce.
The thicker the glass in a storm window is, the better it will protect your house from wind damage.
Storm windows are cheaper because they require less maintenance than other types of windows.
Are storm windows worth it?
The short answer is yes, storm windows are absolutely worth it.
Storm windows help insulate your home from the elements and keep the temperature inside your house regulated.
Storm windows also help to keep your house warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, reducing your heating and cooling bills.
In addition to temperature regulation, storm windows can also protect against intrusion from those who might try to break into your home.
Storm windows, which are most often installed with single-paned windows, are more energy efficient than replacing existing windows with double-paned glass.
Storm windows offer greater air-sealing, keep temperature better, reduce noise, remove condensation, and protect primary windows from Mother Nature’s wear and tear.
Do storm windows make a difference?
While replacing single-pane windows with double-pane windows with high-performance glass may be less expensive, you should also consider adding outside storm windows.
Storm windows will provide comparable savings at a far cheaper initial investment. Some types of storm windows are also suitable for apartment dwellers.
Storm windows can assist decrease air flow into and out of existing windows, improving comfort and lowering heating and cooling expenses.
How much do storm windows cost installed?
New storm windows range in price from $100 to $150 per window. Labor prices to install storm windows can range from $40 to $70 per hour, depending on your area typical installation rates and the time it takes them to finish the work, usually an hour per window.
Storm window lifespan depends on where you live, what kind of storms you have (hurricanes or not), whether or not it’s a mobile home, if there are kids at the house who might break them with their balls or other toys, etc. G
Generally speaking, though-storm windows should last about 10 years before needing to be replaced entirely because the sealant may wear off over time due to extreme temperature changes that happen outside as well as inside
Do people use storm windows anymore?
They’re typically found on older homes with old or worn-out windows. However, storm windows are still very common today, but are often used in addition to other types of windows.
The main reason that you would install storm windows is because you want to save money on your energy bills, but that might not be the only reason.
Storm windows are efficient for those who live in colder regions of the country.
Are storm windows waterproof?
Some types of storm window frames are designed to be waterproof.
While these windows include weather-stripping and specifically sealed components, they are not waterproof; rather, storm windows are impact and water-resistant.
Don’t let moisture destroy your property, protect your impact windows from water penetration.
What type of construction is used?
Storm windows are typically sold to homeowners in the form of sandwich panels or assembled frames. Homeowners typically use either
(1) special trim pieces to seal around their existing windows or
(2) custom-made weatherstripping to seal around the existing window.
What kind of glass is on a storm window?
The most common type of glass on a storm window is single-pane glass, and there are three types: tempered, laminated, and float (neither tempered or laminated).
Tempered is very strong and can withstand high temperatures, but it may obscure vision more than the other two.
How long do storm windows last?
Storm windows are typically made of aluminum or vinyl, and can be installed on the outside of an existing window in order to protect the interior from weather conditions.
They are usually added for energy efficiency purposes in colder climates.
A well-maintained storm window should last 10-15 years before it needs replacing, but this depends on your location and climate zone.
What kinds of materials are used in storm windows?
The most common materials used in storm windows are aluminum or vinyl.
Aluminum is typically black or silver, while vinyl comes in white or tan colors, more of a natural wood tone looking.
How to Clean a Storm Window?
Storm windows can be cleaned as well as or as easily as any other type of glass.
When cleaning storm windows, follow these steps:
- Inspect all surfaces looking for damages such as dirt and grime that may be present on the window itself.
- Clean the window using a glass cleaner on both sides of the window.
- Inspect the frame to make sure it is still sturdy and able to hold up against storms or adverse weather.
What Weather Stripping Do You Use for Storm Windows?
You can use several different types of weather stripping to help keep the cold air out during the winter, as well as bugs and debris during the summer months.
Some of the most common methods are:
1. Nail down weather stripping:
This type of weather stripping is applied to the frame of the storm window with nails. It does not have performed holes, but you can fill them in yourself for a custom fit.
2. Insert preformed weather stripping:
This type of storm window weather strip is already shaped for you, so all you need to do is place it in between the frame and storm window.
3. Applying weather stripping in between the frame and storm window:
This method is the same as the above-mentioned method, except you apply it between the frame and storm window.
Pros of using Weather Stripping for Storm Windows
1. Prevents Bugs:
Weather stripping prevents bugs, insects, birds, squirrels, etc. from getting inside your house during colder months.
2. Protects against Rain:
Weather-stripping can also help prevent you from getting wet during storms or heavy rain.
3. Prevents Debris:
This type of weather stripping protects your windows from objects like chips, leaves, rocks, etc. which can cause damage to your windows and inside of the house.
4. Uneven Floors:
During patching or patch work, it is best to insert weather stripping between the frame and storm window to prevent damage to carpeting and flooring materials during the process.
5. Adds Insulation:
Adding insulation using weather stripping can help keep the cold air out during the winter months and help keep your house warmer during the summer months.
6. Weatherproofs:
This is a process that involves installing weather stripping around windows and doors to blend the exterior of your home with its surroundings, or to prevent water from getting inside of your home during storms.
7. Prevents Condensation:
Condensation can be prevented by using weather stripping on your windows to block out the moisture, which can cause damage.
Cons of Weather Stripping for Storm Windows
1. Blocking Ability:
The effectiveness of weather-stripping depends on the shape and material it is made from, as well as the ability to fit around your windows and doors.
2. Can Be A Project:
Installing weather stripping around all your windows and doors can be a very time-consuming project if you are doing it yourself.
3. Not Always Effective:
The effectiveness of storm window weather-stripping depends on the material, design or shape of the stripping, as well as how well it fits on both the frame and storm window.
