Storm windows help to protect your home from the elements and improve its energy efficiency. Manufactured of twin glass, acrylic or Plexiglas panels, they may be installed to fit over your home's existing interior or exterior windows.
The cost to install storm windows is usually $1,534 and $6,844. Each window itself costs about $90 to $140 and takes about 2 hours to install at $30 to $65 per hour. There may be some additional supplies required that can add up to about $15 to $25 per window.
On This Page:
- Storm Window Installation – What to Expect
- Storm Window Brands
- Options and Styles
- Advantages of Storm Windows
- Disadvantages of Storm Windows
Storm Window Installation – What to Expect
Installing storm windows is a relatively quick and simple process. A professional can help ensure that your new storm windows are properly sized, sealed and secured, but you should always explore your options before you schedule an actual installation. Some companies offer in-home consultations while others only show their products in an in-store showroom. In either case, your initial visit should include:
- Looking at examples of window styles
- Reviewing prices and options
- Scheduling installation
Some companies offering in-home consultations may also measure and inspect your windows during your initial appointment. If not, you will need to schedule an additional pre-installation visit.
The time it takes to install your storm windows will depend on the number of windows in your home and the size and type of storm windows you're installing.
Installation involves:
- Removing the old window
- Repairing and adjusting the exterior window frame
- Caulking the window opening
- Positioning the window
- Adjusting the expander
- Securing the storm window
Expect to pay anywhere from $59 to $133 in labor costs. It’s worth it to take spend a little extra time and money to hire a reliable professional who will make sure your that windows are properly installed.
In addition to the windows themselves, your installation professional will need the following to complete your storm window installation:
- Tape measure
- Screwdriver
- Sheet metal screws
- Drill
- Putty knife
- Caulking gun
- Exterior caulking
- Perimeter foam insulation
- Flashing
- Fasteners
- Safety eye goggles
These supplies will cost between $15 and $25 per window. The storm windows themselves will range from $93 to $142. This is the largest expense you'll encounter.
Pro tip: Keep in mind that this is also an excellent time to repaint your home’s exterior should it be in need. In fact, if you can work it into your budget, consider painting before you install your new windows.
Return to TopStorm Window Brands
Storm windows vary by brand, and selection can be limited in home improvement stores. Companies specializing in storm windows will often provide more extensive options for your home installation. Think about contacting a professional to broaden your choices. Here are some brands to consider:
Brand | Size | Material | Style | Price |
Larson | 28" x 63" | Low-E Aluminum | Two-track | $98.93 |
Comfort-Bilt | 36" x 47" | Aluminum | Three-track | $57.84 |
Comfort-Bilt | 32" x 63" | Aluminum | Two-track | $54.63 |
Larson | 40" x 55" | Low-E Aluminum | Two-track | $104.61 |
Croft | 32" x 35" | Mill Finish Aluminum | Two-track | $36.99 |
Croft | 28" x 55" | White Aluminum | Two-track | $53.99 |
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Options and Styles
Storm windows come in a number of styles and materials. It's important to consider the pros and cons of each option when choosing the right windows for your home.
Frame Type | Pros | Cons |
Wood | Attractive appearance | Expand and contract with changing weather, require frequent maintenance, not readily available at home improvement stores |
Aluminum | Lightweight, low-maintenance and durable | Less insulation than other materials |
Vinyl | Available in various colors, low-maintenance | Requires more frequent replacement |
Some other options to consider:
- Exterior vs. Interior: Exterior storm windows are the most common option; these fit to the exterior windows of your home. Interior storm windows are also available; these may better suit your needs if you want to preserve the appearance of a historic home or live in an apartment complex in which exterior renovations aren't permitted.
- Track Style: Interior storm windows include one single pane, while exterior windows include two or three tracks. A two-track window allows you to slide the installed pane up or down on only on the inner track. A triple track system provides separate tracks for the screen and both window panes, allowing you to move the panes up or down for cross-ventilation.
- Added Features: Extra features -- like a stabilizer bar on triple-track windows, adjustable ventilation stops on two-track windows, weather stripping, removable glass and pre-drilled holes -- increase the efficiency and durability of your storm windows.
Advantages of Storm Windows
There are many advantages to installing storm windows. If you're interested in a fast and affordable way to upgrade your windows without undergoing major home renovations, this is a convenient alternative to a complete window replacement. Storm windows are installed inside or outside your existing windows. They offer improved energy efficiency without a complete home overhaul.
Low-emissivity (low-e) storm windows offer some of the greatest benefits. Low-e windows have a thin metal coating that reflects infrared heat, lowering heating and cooling expenses. Low-e windows can reduce your heating and cooling expenses by as much as 12 to 33 percent; over time, the savings add up and the windows pay for themselves. Standard storm windows will also lower your energy expenses, simply by sealing your windows and preventing air from leaking into or out of your home. Overall, storm windows help you negate some of the problems associated with leaky older windows without requiring you to invest in new windows.
Additional benefits of storm windows include:
- Insulation from outside noise
- Fast and simple installation
- Lower installation costs than window replacements
- Attractive styles that can increase exterior appeal of the home
- Weather protection from storms
Disadvantages of Storm Windows
While storm windows are an energy efficient choice, they're not the most efficient option on the market. Replacement windows provide better energy savings, if you can afford them.
Exterior storm windows must be installed with a small drain hole that prevents moisture from building up between the storm window and the existing window, which may damage the window frame. This hole unfortunately reduces the energy efficiency of the storm window. Replacement windows, by comparison, do not require drain holes or other such considerations.
Additional disadvantages of storm windows include:
- You must unscrew the window to clean it
- Pitting and oxidation will occur if windows are not cleaned annually
- Windows last only two to three years
- Less light filters through
- Homeowners must clean and lubricate the tracks
When you're calculating the cost of storm windows, it's important weigh the benefits and savings against the benefits and costs of regular window replacements. If your existing windows are more than 30 years old, it's best to invest in replacement windows rather than storm windows. Though replacement windows are a more expensive option, they offer lower maintenance requirements and better energy efficiency. Replacement windows are also a more permanent choice that will increase your home's value.
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Information too vague for me to decide who to call. No one seemed to be a Specialist for this task
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want to know about storm doors not windows. installation and does this co. sell the doors?
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