Indoor Storm Windows Vs. Insulated Windows

Choose the right type of storm window.

Choosing the proper windows for your home depends a lot on whether you want to keep your existing windows or to upgrade them. Indoor storm windows, a good alternative for homeowners who do not want to replace their existing windows, can be hard to clean. Insulated windows require replacement of existing windows and can increase the overall resale value of your home, but they require upkeep and maintenance.

Advantages of Indoor Storm Windows

Indoor storm windows are designed to fit inside of your existing windows.

Indoor, or interior, storm windows are an option for homeowners who wish to cut heating costs and improve energy efficiency without altering the appearance of their original windows. Indoor storm windows fit securely to the inside of existing windows and are easy to install and remove. These types of windows can be custom-fitted, and built-in weatherstripping makes them airtight.

Disadvantages of Indoor Storm Windows

Indoor storm windows can be difficult to clean.

Indoor storm windows are commonly made from acrylic or plastic glass, both of which can be hard to clean and easy to scratch. The magnet seal that holds the weatherstripping degrades and needs to be replaced over time.

Advantages of Insulated Windows

Insulated windows can help reduce heating costs.

Insulated windows, also called exterior storm windows, are an option for homeowners who wish to replace their outdated windows and save money on energy costs in the long run. Installing exterior windows requires remodeling, but the results can increase a home's resale value and protect the structure and its contents from water and weather damage.

Disadvantages of Insulated Windows

Condensation buildup can lead to window damage over time.

The addition of exterior storm windows may change the overall exterior aesthetic of a home. Additionally, because insulated windows are not as easy to remove as interior storm windows, cleaning them can be tricky, particularly if a layer of condensation builds up between the window layers.

Other Considerations

Ask a professional for advice about storm windows.

If you have an older home with old windows, it might be difficult to find interior storm windows that will fit, but it also might be a better option if you want to preserve the original windows. If you are remodeling your home, however, exterior storm windows may be a better choice. Ask your window installation company which option is better for your home.

References

• ToolBase: Interior Storm Windows
• House-Energy: Interior and Exterior Storm Windows; Advantages and Disadvantages
• Natural HandyMan: Understanding and Using Insulated Glass