About Aluminum Storm/Screen Windows

Aluminum storm windows and doors provide insulation from heat and cold and can save energy and money. There are various sizes and types depending on the structure of the window and age of home. Storm windows can open top to bottom or side to side. Storm doors come in various styles, thickness and overall weight, the heavier providing ultimate insulation and a tight seal within the door frame.

Types

Depending on the age of the storm windows or doors you want to upgrade, there are numerous options. There are sliding and swinging windows that are pulled up or down from top to bottom or swing in or out. Double-hung windows can be opened independently of each other. Single-hung means you can only open the bottom window and the top stays put. Sliding windows open from side to side, and bow or bay windows are curved outward. Storm doors can be inserted during months when you want to keep cold or heat in and are replaced with screens during months you don't need to do either. There are storm doors in which the window section (top section) can be slid up to close or down into the bottom part of the door, revealing a screen on the upper part.

Function

Storm doors and windows function to keep cold air inside in summer and warm air inside in winter. During months when heat nor air conditioning is on, you can open them to reveal screens on outer track. Older storm windows are on an outside window track and are stored in the upper part of the window when not in use. Storm windows are opened and closed by either pushing latches on the bottom or the top. On doors, they may be kept in place with side and top latches, or stored in the bottom part of the door as a single unit.

Benefits

Energy conservation is one of the most beneficial reasons to install good storm windows and doors, that is those that aren't cracked, chipped or are difficult to open or close. In older homes, replacing all the windows and doors is costly, so it's recommended to replace the oldest ones first. Newer windows, especially double-hung, are easiest to open and clean.

Size

The size of windows and doors is determined by the size of the pre-existing window and door frame. The best way to be sure you're buying the correct size is to take the old window with you to the store. If you're having new windows installed by a company, be sure to ask for energy ratings to ensure the highest level of insulation.

Considerations

You can receive an energy tax deduction when you file your taxes if you've purchased energy-saving storm windows and doors. Unless you are replacing an older storm window that you can slip into the window tracks on your own, it's best to have professionals install any units that require custom fitting. Watch for sales at home improvement stores or coupons for a local company. Don't assume larger home improvement stores offer the best deals as they subcontract the work. Check with local window stores and manufacturers for better deals.