Exterior storm windows are essential for enhancing the energy efficiency, security, and weather resistance of your home. When selecting the right configuration for your exterior storm windows, it’s important to understand the various options and features available. This buying guide will help you make informed decisions by outlining the necessary build configurations and comparing them with interior storm windows and custom storm windows.
1. Frame Material
The frame material of your storm windows significantly impacts their durability, maintenance, and energy efficiency. Here are the common materials used:
a. Aluminum Frames
- Durability: Highly durable and resistant to rust, making them ideal for harsh weather conditions.
- Maintenance: Low maintenance, but can conduct heat and cold, potentially affecting energy efficiency.
- Aesthetics: Available in various finishes to match your home’s exterior.
b. Vinyl Frames
- Durability: Resistant to weathering and requires minimal maintenance.
- Energy Efficiency: Provides good insulation, helping to reduce energy costs.
- Aesthetics: Available in a range of colors, but may not offer the same aesthetic appeal as aluminum or wood.
c. Wood Frames
- Aesthetics: Offers a classic, attractive look that can enhance your home’s curb appeal.
- Energy Efficiency: Excellent insulation properties.
- Maintenance: Requires regular maintenance to prevent rot, warping, and insect damage.
2. Glazing Options
The type of glass or glazing used in your exterior storm windows affects their performance in terms of insulation, sound reduction, and UV protection.
a. Single Glazing
- Cost: Most affordable option.
- Performance: Less effective at insulation compared to double or triple glazing.
- Use Case: Suitable for mild climates where extreme temperatures are not an issue.
b. Double Glazing
- Insulation: Provides better insulation by trapping air or gas between two panes of glass.
- Energy Efficiency: Reduces energy costs by improving thermal performance.
- Sound Reduction: Helps to reduce outside noise.
c. Low-E Coating
- UV Protection: Reduces ultraviolet and infrared light without compromising visible light.
- Energy Efficiency: Reflects heat back into the room in winter and keeps it out in summer.
- Cost: Higher initial cost but provides long-term savings on energy bills.
3. Mounting Style
The mounting style of your exterior storm windows determines how they attach to your existing windows and affect their overall performance.
a. Surface Mount
- Installation: Mounted directly onto the exterior window frame.
- Weather Resistance: Provides a strong seal against the elements.
- Aesthetics: May be more noticeable on the exterior of your home.
b. Blind Stop Mount
- Installation: Mounted inside the window opening against the blind stop.
- Weather Resistance: Effective at reducing drafts and improving insulation.
- Aesthetics: Offers a more streamlined appearance.
c. Inside Mount
- Installation: Mounted on the interior of the window frame.
- Use Case: Often used for interior storm windows, but can be adapted for exterior applications.
- Aesthetics: Less visible from the outside, preserving exterior appearance.
4. Ventilation Options
Proper ventilation is crucial for preventing moisture buildup and maintaining indoor air quality. Some storm windows offer built-in ventilation features.
a. Adjustable Vent Panels
- Functionality: Allows for controlled airflow while maintaining protection against the elements.
- Convenience: Easy to operate and adjust based on weather conditions.
b. Full-View Panels
- Design: Provides maximum visibility and can be fully opened for ventilation.
- Versatility: Ideal for use in temperate climates where full ventilation is occasionally needed.
5. Customization Options
Custom storm windows can be tailored to fit unique window shapes and sizes, offering greater flexibility and enhanced performance.
a. Custom Sizing
- Fit: Ensures a perfect fit for non-standard window dimensions.
- Performance: Improved insulation and weather resistance due to the precise fit.
b. Design Features
- Aesthetics: Choose from various finishes, colors, and hardware options to match your home’s style.
- Functionality: Add features like tempered glass for safety or tints for added privacy and UV protection.
6. Comparing with Interior Storm Windows
While exterior storm windows are mounted outside the primary window, interior storm windows offer some distinct advantages and differences.
a. Ease of Installation
- Interior Storm Windows: Easier to install and remove, often requiring no professional assistance.
- Exterior Storm Windows: Installation is more complex and may require professional help.
b. Aesthetic Impact
- Interior Storm Windows: Less impact on the exterior appearance of your home.
- Exterior Storm Windows: Can be more noticeable but offer additional protection against weather and external damage.
c. Performance
- Interior Storm Windows: Effective for noise reduction and additional insulation, but may not provide the same level of protection against external elements.
- Exterior Storm Windows: Better overall protection from weather, debris, and UV rays, enhancing the longevity of your primary windows.
Conclusion
Selecting the right configuration for your exterior storm windows involves considering various factors, including frame material, glazing options, mounting style, ventilation, and customization. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in determining the overall performance, aesthetics, and functionality of the windows. By understanding these factors and comparing them with interior storm windows and custom storm windows, you can make an informed decision that best suits your home’s needs and your personal preferences. Investing in high-quality exterior storm windows can significantly enhance your home’s energy efficiency, comfort, and protection against the elements.