If you are contemplating ways to upgrade your windows, a full replacement is not the only option. Why not consider whether storm windows may be the right fit? After all, storm windows can be quite effective at delivering greater insulation and protection against the weather extremes of Minnesota—and they are cost-effective as well.
Here are some benefits you may want to weigh as you consider whether storm windows would be an asset to your house.
Storm Windows: An Overview
Storm windows are an added layer of glass and framing that can be installed in front of your current windows to improve energy efficiency, weather resistance, and noise intrusion. They come in a variety of colors, as well as materials such as aluminum, vinyl, or fiberglass. Part of the storm window includes a screen that can be raised or lowered to invite airflow.
You can choose to place them on your house’s exterior, where they will add a layer of defense against hail, wind, rain, ice, snow, and sun. Or, they can be placed inside, which is convenient if your main goal is to achieve greater insulation, energy efficiency, and noise reduction. This makes them a handy solution when you want better protection without the added expense of installing new windows.
Beissel Window & Siding has been selling and installing Mon-Ray storm windows and storm doors since our inception in 1950.
The Advantages That Storm Windows Can Provide
In addition to the fact that storm windows are easier and faster to install than a full window replacement, they offer several additional benefits you may find appealing.
1. Protect Against Weather Damage
Your windows provide important protection against the weather elements. When functioning properly, they prevent the intrusion of moisture from rain, snow, and ice from penetrating your house. They help block out a portion of the sun’s UV rays, which would otherwise make interior rooms overly warm and cause furnishings to fade. Storm windows create another layer of defense against the weather, helping your house to stay in superior shape over the years.
2. Safeguard Wood Windows
A vital purpose of storm windows is to preserve the existing window surface and frame that you already have. This is especially beneficial for wood windows, which are so vulnerable to rain, snow, and ice. If you have windows that are sensitive to the weather, such as traditional, historical wood frames, storm windows provide strong protection as they keep harmful moisture at bay.
3. Block Outdoor Noise
While no material can completely block all sounds from entering your interior, storm windows help muffle unwanted noise intrusion by providing an extra protective layer for your house’s exterior. Some studies have shown that noise reduction can be up to 40% if you use storm windows. This is highly beneficial, especially if you live in an area with heavy traffic, plane flight paths, or a lot of activity.
4. Reduce Energy Expenditures
Many homeowners are concerned about energy usage, desiring to lower utility costs or being more mindful of the environment, or both. Storm windows are an effective tool for bringing both goals to fruition. They help insulate by reflecting radiant heat—especially if you choose Low-E (low-emissivity) glass panes. They also help seal your windows, which can decrease air leakage by as much as 10% or more. This means your heating and air conditioning system do not need to work as hard to keep your interior comfortable.
5. Raise the Overall Value of Your Property
Storm windows can add to the attractiveness of your house as well as provide practical comforts such as a more even indoor temperature, lower energy costs, and more. Since many people today value ecofriendly living, storm windows can help increase the value that home buyers see in your property.
6. Provide a Convenient Alternative to New Windows
There may be many reasons that you prefer to keep your existing windows rather than replacing them. Perhaps your dwelling is historic, and you want to preserve its features. Or, you may have relatively new windows that function well for the most part, except that they do not provide as much insulation as you would like. Storm windows offer a simple way to create added energy efficiency and noise reduction, without requiring a full window replacement. They are affordable, attractive, and practical.Mon-Ray storm windows are approved by local Heritage Preservation Commissions (HPC).
7. Improve Security Against Intruders
Many would-be thieves view windows as an appealing entry point to break in. With an added layer of protection, your windows become more difficult to break into. Thus, they add to your property’s overall security and safety.
8. Simple Maintenance
Storm windows are relatively straightforward to clean—you simply remove them, rinse them, let them air dry, and reattach them. If you so choose, you can remove them completely during summer if you wish, as long as you carefully store them, and then reinstall them in winter. Another plus—if one storm window does get cracked, it is easy to replace without the need to remove your entire window system.
Enjoy the Benefits of Storm Windows Installed Right the First Time
Whether the idea of storm windows is a good fit for your goals, or whether you would like to learn more about your options for new windows, our team is ready to assist you. At Beissel Window & Siding, we take pride in guiding our clients to the best solutions for their unique home needs. We will walk you through each option and make sure you feel confident with your choice—so you can relax and enjoy the results.
We invite you to explore our gallery of completed projects and satisfied customers—and envision your home updated to perfection with the help of Beissel Window & Siding.
