Interior Storm Windows

What are interior storm windows and why use them:

Lowering energy expenses is high priority for most homeowners. However, the costs involved and concerns about the appearance of the house are two big issues that discourage many homeowners from going ahead with implementing energy saving plans. Interior storm windows are especially suited to address these concerns, especially when it is desirable to retain the original windows. Interior storm windows enable homeowners to retain the original look of the house while economizing on energy bills at the same time.

How storm windows help:

Tight-fitting interior storm windows restrict air drafts from entering or leaving the house through them. In addition, they create a space for air between the interior and exterior windows, which improves the insulating capacity of the composite window assembly, thus raising interior window temperature. Evaluations of heating and cooling energy savings from installation of interior storm windows show energy savings of almost 29 percent. A decrease in interior window condensation has also been reported. These storm windows can also improve sound resistance, reduce window condensation, and prevent degradation of furnishings from ultraviolet (UV) light.

Flexibility in storm windows:

Interior storm windows also afford a degree of flexibility as they can be removed from original windows to facilitate ventilation during milder weather conditions. Available for customized application to fit any size of rectangular size, they are also made in a wide variety of geometric shapes. Interior storm windows are purchased along with mounting brackets made of vinyl or metal. These are permanently fixed to one or more sides of the interior window frame, and incorporate detachable glass or acrylic panes. The transparent pane is easily attached to the bracket using a magnetic strip. Panes are also available with low-emissivity glazing to reduce heat gain as also with UV-resistant glazing to protect furnishing against UV damage.

Benefits of interior storm windows:

Interior storm windows have made it possible to preserve the old world appearance of historic homes, as they allow the original windows to be preserved. During cold weather, single-pane windows may lose up to ten times more heat than an equal area of wall. Similarly on sunny, hot days, conventional windows can heat up the inside of the house with heat gain from the outside. It is estimated that windows account in excess of 25% of a home's heating and cooling energy bills.

Interior storm windows can also be removed to facilitate natural ventilation. With interior storm windows featuring acrylic/polycarbonate glazing, users need to take extra care to prevent scratching or clouding. The seal around the perimeter of the interior storm window ensures effective sound and thermal insulation.