What is the best material and installation for interior storm windows?
We have Anderson 400 Series Windows and sliding doors which are about 10 years old and are working well. We would like to increase our windows efficiency by added interior storm windows as a third layer.
We live in New England on a very windy bay and have four fixed windows that are 5 feet long by 4 feet high three sets of 6 foot sliders, 3 bay windows and many casement windows of average size.
Will an interior third layer really accomplish what this energysavr video suggests?
http://www.windowinserts.com/?gclid=CMrMoNSelqQCFZxo5QodhnWkLA
Any recommendations on what the best material and installation are very much appreciated. Should we use acrylic to prevent yellowing, what thickness, etc?
Thank you in advance for your help,
Austin
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Replies
Heidi,
To my mind, glass is always preferable to acrylic, because of the clarity and scratch-resistance of glass.
Any glass dealer or storm window contractor should be able to make custom interior storms for your windows.
I don't like interior storms, however, because they tend to cool the primary window, leading to the possibility of condensation and mold, especially on wood windows. Exterior storms are better. Is there any reason you don't want exterior storms?
Martin,
Thank you for your answer, we were told exterior storms had to have weep holes which would defeat the purpose of preventing the winter wind from entering. We were also told by a few local glass companies that due to the size of our windows, we couldn't use glass since it was too heavy.
Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.
Heidi
Heidi,
If your windows are very large, and you can't use glass, then you may have to use plastic glazing.
Weep holes are useful and necessary; they allow any condensation to drain. Weep holes do not significantly affect storm window performance, however. If you install exterior storm windows -- even windows with weep holes -- you will significantly cut down on air infiltration and heat loss through your windows.