Storm windows are a considerable investment that most homeowners in regions where storms are common are beginning to consider. However, it may feel like a huge commitment and make the decision difficult. What is the solution?
You can remove the storm windows. They are designed to be temporary fixtures for the home, which may be removed during seasons when storms are unlikely. People may want to remove the storm windows from their homes to improve ventilation, reduce maintenance costs, allow more natural light, and improve the house’s appearance.
This article delves into the pros and cons of installing storm windows and offers a step to step guide for the removal of storm windows.
Storm Windows
Storm windows are additional windows installed with existing ones to provide an extra layer of protection against harsh weather conditions. They are designed to increase energy efficiency by reducing heat loss and preventing air infiltration.
Storm windows are usually made of glass, acrylic, or polycarbonate materials and are available in various styles and sizes to fit different types of windows.
There are two types of storm windows, interior and exterior. The difference between the two is not stark; deciding which one to install depends on the owner’s preference. However, interior storm windows are less susceptible to damage from winds, but they do put the other windows at risk of being shattered.
Why Are Storm Windows Installed?
Let us look into why homeowners must install an extra layer of windows to their otherwise perfectly built homes.
Some of the reasons for installing storm windows include energy efficiency, noise reduction, protection against weather elements, and the hike in the home’s value that the windows offer.
Protection Against Winds
The main purpose of the invention of storm windows was to keep strong winds out of homes.
Storm windows are used in areas prone to hurricanes or other storms, which put homes at risk of destruction and serve as a huge help to protect windows from being shattered, debris from entering the home, and from storm damage inside the home.
Energy Efficiency
When storm windows are installed, they begin to serve as insulation for the house. Depending on whether it is cold or hot, the impact of the temperature on the house is minimized, greatly reducing energy consumption and costs.
Since storm windows do not allow air to enter, most sunlight and cold winds are kept outside the house like other weather elements.
Noise Reduction
Given how sturdy and thick storm windows are, they also keep the sound outside the house. The windows soundproof the house by refusing entry or exit of sound into and out.
This may reduce soundproofing costs and allow homeowners to live in a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, enhancing their home environment.
Increase The Value Of The House
Storm windows are a major investment, and if a house has storm windows installed when it is on the market, it automatically drives the price up.
Storm windows also indicate that the house is taken care of, has little to no storm damage, and is well-kept; this attracts buyers and gives owners a chance to ask for their desired price.
Why Are Storm Windows Removed?
Conversely, some homeowners may wish to remove their storm windows. Why is that? Let us discuss below.
Ventilation
As mentioned earlier, wind is one of the primary weather elements that are kept out of a home by storm windows. Due to the reduced ventilation in the house, homeowners may begin to feel suffocated and like the house is not airy enough.
To solve the issue, they may wish to remove their storm windows.
Less Maintenance
Storm windows require effort after they are installed. Ideally, they must be cleaned regularly and checked for wear and tear. Manufacturers also recommend frequent repairs. In comparison, regular home windows are less work and do not require homeowners to invest time, money, and energy into the windows.
More Natural Light
Most storm windows do not block light, but some of them may have the ability to block some of the natural light that enters homes. This may cause the home to look dull, poorly lit, and gloomy.
A call for action to improve it may be to remove the storm windows and allow natural light to enter through them.
Better Appearance
While there are several different types of storm windows in different designs, they are still not the perfect match for the exteriors of most homes. Storm windows often look like misfits when installed, compromising the home’s aesthetics. However, storm windows may enhance the appearance of some homes.
To deal with the issue of aesthetics and appearance, removing the storm windows when they are not needed to preserve the house’s original look may be a good idea.
Can You Remove Storm Windows?
Yes, storm windows can be removed very easily. Given all of the reasons we mentioned, if homeowners feel that it is necessary to remove the storm windows, they may go ahead with that.
However, before that, check the weather, look at forecasts, and analyze when the next storm season may begin.
Below is a guide on how to remove your storm windows yourself.
- Locate The Mounting Hardware – Screws and clips mount the storm windows onto the existing window. Look for these components; they are usually on the sides of the window. Determine which mounting hardware is used and the supplies needed to safely remove it.
- Remove The Mounting Hardware – get the desired tools and carefully remove the screws or clips. We recommend that these are saved in small ziplock bags and labeled for each window to help keep track.
- Remove The Storm Window – When removing the screws or clips, push or pull the storm window out of the frame. If this is difficult, you may use pry bars to assist you.
- Clean And Store The Storm Window – After removing the storm window, clean it with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Once it is dry, store it in a dry and secure location until it is ready to be installed again.
Final Thoughts
Storm windows are a great way to preserve the safety and integrity of your home. Strong winds can be detrimental to the house’s structure and cause considerable damage, which may lead to long-term costs.
However, a small investment in storm windows can save you that. Removing them when needed is okay, but ensure they are stored adequately.