Installing brand-new windows is nice, but it can be a significant expense. For those looking for replacement windows in Elkhart, IN, getting storm windows may be a cost-saving alternative.
But it is important to understand what storm windows are to determine if they are a meaningful alternative for you or a waste of money. Below is a detailed explanation of what you need to know.
What are Storm Windows?
Storm windows are windows installed on the exterior or interior of already-installed windows. They provide extra protection against adverse weather elements and improve a home’s energy efficiency. Storm windows are available in various materials – glass, aluminum, or vinyl – and colors. They are mostly installed as exterior windows and come in two or three tracks.
In the most common two-track version, the outer track is a half-pane of glass at the top and a half-screen at the bottom. The inner track is a half-pane window that can be raised or lowered to control ventilation. The three-track storm window has two outer tracks that each hold a glass or screen panel. The inner track holds the movable, ventilation window.
Benefits of storm windows
There are many benefits of installing storm windows in your home. Some of the top benefits include improved insulation, reduced energy costs, and protection from the weather. Storm windows can also help improve the security of your home, and can add an extra layer of protection during a storm. If you’re looking for a way to improve the comfort and security of your home, installing storm windows is a great option.
1. Increases the value of your home.
Installing storm windows can increase the value of your home. This is because storm windows add an extra layer of protection to your home, and can help improve its energy efficiency. Home buyers are increasingly looking for homes that are energy-efficient, and storm windows can help you meet this demand. By installing storm windows, you’ll be able to increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
2. Saves you money on energy cost.
Storm windows can also help you save money on your energy bills. In fact, storm windows can save you up to $465 per year on your energy costs. This is because storm windows help keep heat in during the winter and cool air in during the summer.
By design, storm windows provide extra layers of insulation for your home. The exterior window is the first layer of protection, followed by the air trapped between the pane of the storm window and the main window. Their insulation properties also cover noise. Installing an interior storm window to double-pane glass windows can reduce outside noise by up to 50% and on a single-pane window by 70%.
Furthermore, storm windows are convenient for homeowners who wish to improve a house’s insulation without changing the original windows. Storm windows allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds – higher energy efficiency and preservation of the home’s architectural look. They are also super DIY-friendly, and you can install one without paying a professional. This is one of the reasons why it is a cheaper alternative to replacement windows.
3. Protects your existing windows
By installing storm windows, you are essentially giving your old windows a new lease on life. This is because storm windows protect your existing windows from the elements, which means that they will last longer. Not only do storm windows protect your home from severe weather conditions, but they also improve its curb appeal. And since they come in a variety of colors and styles, you can find storm windows to match any home’s exterior.
4. Helps in reducing outside noises.
Another great benefit of storm windows is that they help reduce outside noise. If you live in a busy city, or near a highway, storm windows can be a godsend. By creating an additional barrier between your home and the outside world, storm windows can significantly reduce the amount of noise that enters your home.
5. Easy to maintain.
Storm windows are also easy to maintain. Unlike regular windows, storm windows don’t need to be cleaned as often. And if they do get dirty, you can simply hose them down and let them air dry. However, it is still important to check your storm windows from time to time. Since they are your first line of defense from the elements, storm windows can take a beating. So, if you notice any cracks or damage, be sure to repair or replace them as soon as possible.
Disadvantages of storm windows
All of the above are good reasons to get storm windows, but you should know there are downsides too.
Interior storm windows can quickly become a source of condensation. Since they trap air, it is easy for moisture to build between the window and your existing windows. This has an obscuring effect on your windows and can enable mold growth. Also, storm windows can be difficult to clean or maintain without complete removal. They also let in less light, and the tracks must be regularly lubricated and kept clean.
How much does it cost to install a storm window?
The average storm window installation cost is $190 to $610 per storm window. This includes the materials and labor for a standard storm window measuring 36″ by 60″. The price will be lower if you have a smaller window or if you install the windows yourself. Larger storm windows or those made of specialty materials will cost more to install.
Should I get storm windows?
It depends. If money is the primary reason you’re considering getting storm windows, you should. They are cheaper, and you can install them yourself. If you are DIY-ing, make sure to get storm windows with
- Pre-drilled holes that ease installation
- Easy-to-clean removable half-pane glass and half screens
- Quality weatherstripping to prevent heat loss
- Multiple positioning stops to control ventilation
Also, look out for storm windows with low emissivity (low-E) glass. They are better suited for regulating home temperature in the summer and winter. But they require significant maintenance, and their long-term energy efficiency is not as high as replacement windows.
Suppose you can afford it and are not particular about preserving the house’s original look. In that case, we recommend getting replacement windows instead.
You should also get replacement windows if your current windows are 30 years old or more. Doing so will save you money in the long run. In short, storm windows are an excellent temporary solution. Replacing your old windows with new energy-efficient ones provides better long-term value at higher upfront costs.
Contact Key Exteriors, Inc. if you wish to get replacement windows in Elkhart, IN. We carry windows from high-quality brands like Milgard and Andersen. You can give us a call at (260) 492-8062 or visit our office to set up a scheduled free in-home consultation.
