Storm windows are commonly installed in window frames to protect the home against wind damage that comes with storms. Most homeowners remove the storm windows when the storm season is over. Would it be better to open the windows instead of removing them?
Storm windows cannot be opened from outside the house. These are designed in a restrictive way and require complete uninstallation to improve the ventilation and natural light in the home and make it easier to clean and maintain the storm windows.
This article explores the several types of storm windows and provides readers with a step-by-step guide on how to remove 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.
They are usually made of glass, acrylic, or polycarbonate materials and are available in various styles and sizes to fit different types of windows.
Types Of Storm Windows
Storm windows come in several different types, characterized based on their placement or the material they are made of. Below we look at a few of the most common types of storm windows.
- Exterior storm windows are installed outside the existing windows and are made of aluminum or vinyl frames with glass or plastic panes.
- Interior storm windows are installed inside existing windows and are made of lightweight plastic or acrylic sheets. These are relatively cheaper than the exterior storm windows and are less sturdy.
- Combination storm windows combine exterior and interior storm windows and provide even greater insulation and energy efficiency. They cost a lot more than any other storm windows.
- Low-E storm windows are a package for storm protection and energy efficiency. They have a special coating reflecting heat and UV rays, increasing energy efficiency.
- Soundproof storm windows have thicker glass or acrylic panes, providing extra insulation against noise pollution.
Why Do Storm Windows Need To Be Opened From The Outside?
Let us look at why there is a dire need for storm windows that can be opened from the outside instead of being shit completely.
Maintenance
Storm windows are quite demanding and require more attention than regular windows. Regular inspection of the state of the window needs to be done to ensure there is no significant damage that may put the house at risk.
Moreover, the window requires regular cleaning and maintenance. These tasks would be made much easier if the storm windows were to open from the outside.
Ventilation
Storm windows serve the primary purpose of blocking wind from entering the house. When the risk of storms is absent, the home may feel stuffy, and homeowners may want to change that.
The ventilation is restricted; a good solution would be to open the storm windows for some time to let air into the house.
An Alternative To Removing The Window
People wish that storm windows would open from the outside because that would remove the need for regular installations and removals of the windows every year.
These can be costly, time-consuming, and take up a lot of effort. Moreover, space is needed to store the windows, which may be an issue for most people.
Is It Possible To Open A Storm Window From Outside The House?
No, it is not. Storm windows are designed in a way that they have no openings. They fit into the existing window’s frame and do not work like regular windows. There are no handles or sliding glass doors, which may help open the storm window.
These are applicable irrespective of the type of storm window and whether the position in which it is placed is inside or outside the home.
If you wish to open a storm window, you must remove the entire window by pulling out the screws and removing the caulk. However, efforts are being made toward designing storm windows that can be opened to provide ease to homeowners in areas that are vulnerable to storms.
How To Remove A Storm Window?
Since opening the window is unavailable, consider removing the storm window. Below we have listed all the tools and helpful steps needed to remove your storm window.
Tools Required
You will need the following:
- Utility Knife
- Ladder
- Drill Machine
- Gloves
- Scraper
- Window Cleaner
Steps
Follow this step-by-step guide to aid you in the process and ensure you do it safely and properly.
- Set up your ladder to reach your window if needed. Ensure your ladder is secure and firmly in place for your safety.
- Having a partner with you through the entire process is advised so they can help you out and look out for your safety while you do the job.
- Put on your safety gloves; if you have any other safety tools on your hands, make sure you use them.
- Examine the window and see if any latches were used. If so, open and remove the latches.
- Identify the places on the storm window where it is screwed into the frame.
- Get your drill machine and begin unscrewing all the screws. You can save up these screws for later use.
- Try to pull the window out. If it does not come out easily, use your utility knife or a pry bar to anchor it by placing them in the tiny gap between the window and the frame.
- Once the window is removed, begin cleaning the edges of the window frame.
- Use the scraper to remove any leftover caulking.
- Use the window cleaning solution to clean up the existing window so that the house’s exterior looks spotless.
Final Thoughts
Storm windows are one of the most proactive ways to secure your home against storms. Unfortunately, maintenance of these windows requires a lot of effort, and the removal and installation process must be undergone every year before and after the storm season.
It is worth looking forward to improved designs of storm windows, which do not require such an effort.