Storm Windows

 Now, as soon as we get this window screen out of the way, I’m going to show you how to become more energy efficient. What we have here is a window that has one single pane of glass.

TOOLS
    * Tape measure
    * Screwdriver or Screw gun
    * Electric drill
    * Squeegee
    * Glass cleaning supplies

MATERIALS
    * Storm windows (available in standard and custom configurations at hardware stores and  home improvement centers in your area)
    * Plastic thermal break strips (may be included with windows)
    * 3/8" foam weather-stripping (optional)
    * Latex caulk (optional)
    * Window Cleaner

Installing storm windows on your home can dramatically reduce you energy bill. By adding an additional pane of glass, you will reduce the heat transfer through your windows by 50%. Thusly, your home will remain warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer, and be more energy efficient.

STEP BY STEP
   1. Prepare the window by removing the old screen.
   2. Measure the height and width of the window (be sure to accommodate for the outer dimensions of the new storm window. This is especially critical in the case of custom windows).
   3. Take written measurements to select new window(s).
   4. Dry fit new window to make sure it will fit.
   5. Slide plastic thermal break strips onto the flange of the storm window.
   6. Drill pilot holes through the plastic thermal break, the flange of the storm window, and into the frame of the existing window to accommodate mounting screws.
   7. Before mounting, clean interior and exterior of storm window, as well as, the exterior of existing window. These panes (interior storm-exterior existing) will be inaccessible for long periods of time (only when your remove the stormwindow can you thoroughly clean  them) unless you have chosen a model of storm window whose panes will fold out to allow for cleaning.
   8. Prior to mounting check the bottom of the storm window frame for “weep holes”. These will allow moisture to escape from between the panes, which will prevent fogging. If your storm window does not have them, carefully drill small holes on each side.
   9. If you are using weather-stripping, apply it around the entire inside of the storm window flange. Weather-stripping may give a more secure seal than the plastic strips, but it will be more difficult to take the windows down for cleaning. Using weather-stripping, or plastic strips, is essential if your existing windows have metal frames. Metal to metal contact will allow for a great deal of heat transfer, thereby cutting down on the energy efficiency of the window.
  10. Use mounting screws to secure storm window to existing frame.
  11. In areas where more severe temperatures occur, caulk would be applied around the edge of the frame (do not cover the “weep holes”) as an additional barrier to prevent heat transfer. Clear caulk would be recommended in most applications.
  12. Touch up exterior of storm window
  13. Move on to the next one

If you’d like more information on the benefits of adding storm windows contact your local hardware store or home center.