If you have old windows in your home, the best way to improve your home’s energy efficiency is to replace them with new energy efficient windows. However, if you’re on a tight budget, a less expensive option is to use storm windows. Some types of storm windows are also a good option for those living in apartments.
Storm Windows & Doors
Even though storm windows add little to the insulating performance of single-glazed windows (that are in good condition,) field studies have found that they can help to reduce air movement into and out of existing windows. Therefore, they help reduce heating and cooling costs.
Variations
Storm windows are available for most types of windows. They can be installed on the interior or exterior of the primary window. They range from the inexpensive plastic sheets or films designed for one heating season, to triple-track glass units with low e-missivity coatings that offer many years of use. Mid-priced storm windows may use glass, plastic panels, or special plastic sheets that have specific optical qualities. Those made of polycarbonate plastic or laminated glass also offer a high degree of resistance to breaking during storms and/or from intruders.
For the most part, interior storm windows offer greater convenience than exterior storm windows. They’re easier to install and remove; they require less maintenance because they’re not exposed to the elements; and, because they seal tightly to the primary window, they’re more effective at reducing
air infiltration. Interior storm windows also are often the best choice for apartments and houses with more than one floor. If you can afford exterior storm windows, you can probably afford some newer, newer more energy efficient windows, which will be a better investment.
Glass pane types offer better visibility and longer life than plastic pane types, but glass is heavy and fragile. In general, plastics are most economical for people with small budgets or who live in apartments. However, while inexpensive and relatively easy to install, they are easy to damage. Plastic panels, such as Plexiglas and acrylics are tougher and lighter than glass, but may scratch easily. Some may turn yellow over time as well. Some plastic films may significantly reduce visibility and degrade over time when exposed to sunlight.
Wood, aluminum, and vinyl are the most common storm window frame materials. There are advantages and disadvantages to all types of frame materials. Although very strong, light, and almost maintenance free, aluminum frames conduct heat very rapidly. Because of this, aluminum makes a very poor insulating material.
Wood frames insulate well, but they weather with age. They also expand and contract according to weather conditions. Wood-frame storm windows installed during the winter may not close easily during the summer, and those installed during the summer may fit loosely in the winter. They can also be quite heavy and thicker than metal frames. This can make storage difficult, reduce the view out the window, and reduce the amount of natural light in the room. Wood frames also require the most maintenance. There are, however, aluminum- or vinyl-clad wood frames that reduce maintenance requirements.
Vinyl frames are usually made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with ultraviolet light (UV) stabilizers to keep sunlight from breaking down the material. They, however, may expand and warp at high temperatures, and crack in extremely low temperatures. Also, if sunlight hits the material for many hours a day, colors other than white will tend to fade over time.
Installation
No matter what type you choose, the storm window frame must be hung square with the primary window and sealed to the opening. You should also consider the fact that they should be easy to move to allow for cleaning and ventilation.
Exterior-mounted storm windows must have “weep holes” at the bottom of the frame to allow any moisture that collects between the primary window and the storm window to drain out. Even though these drainage holes subtract from energy savings, not having them will eventually cause the primary window frame to rot, and possibly make them impossible to operate.
Let us help you make your home more energy efficient. Storm windows by Larson, Styline and Equalizer are an attractive way to add insulating value to your windows. Choose from many styles and colors. We also offer a full line of storm doors in a range of styles and colors to match your home. Our field service technicians are available to meet with you to determine what options are best for you. And best of all, we’ll do the installation for you too!
In addition to combination vinyl and aluminum storm windows, Rib Mountain Glass Inc. offers picture window storms, custom stationary storms and a variety of options for 3-season rooms. We also offer the new retractable screens.
We custom order all of our aluminum and vinyl storm windows to exact specifications to fit any size window. All frame parts are made of durable, extruded materials and are hand-assembled. Includes screens and installation screws.
Key Features
Wash from the Inside: glass and screen inserts either tilt or remove to inside for easy cleaning.
Security: can’t be opened from the outside.
Maintenance Free: durable materials do not warp, peel, are resistant to aging and weather.
Durable: includes anti-bow pins, stabilizer bar, metal latches, and cushioned glazing.
Energy Efficient: weatherstripping and interlocking sashes minimize air infiltration. Available in low-E ortinted glass for additional energy savings
Larson Doors
When It’s Cold and Nasty Outside.
Keep the heat inside. All Larson wood core and injected foam insulated storm doors provide that extra barrier against the worst weather. Larson storm doors are exceptionally efficient energy savers.
Keep the Wind, Weather and Dust Out!
Every Larson storm door is equipped with a premium or special magnetic weather-stripping that works like a refrigerator to seal out cold and hot air, wind, rain, dust and pests.
Keep Out the Creepy Crawlies and the Frigid Frosties!
An adjustable brass-tone or color-matched bottom expander and vinyl sweep conform to uneven sills for a great fit and sure seal.