Replies

1. 
   [email protected] | Jan 31, 2025 11:25am | #1

   If you have exterior storm windows why are you getting air infiltration? I’d either improve the seal on the exterior windows or replace the exterior storms rather than add a 3rd set of windows. In my humble opinion placing the original wood sash between two windows puts it in a mini greenhouse and is not good for it. But I know some people have this so maybe I’m off base. Personally I would not want to open 3 windows to get some fresh air.

2. 
   thehistorydude | Feb 17, 2025 06:04pm | #2

   You'll get air infiltration with exterior storm windows because their not air sealed. There are weep holes at the bottom to let out condensation that will also let air in. They are really meant to keep weather out, i.e., water not wind. The best defense for air infiltration is weatherstripping your windows. There are a couple of companies whose products I've used while trying to tighten up my 200+ year old windows. Conservation Technology (https://www.conservationtechnology.com/building_weatherseals.html) has a large selection of seals and weatherstripping. Advance Repair Technology (http://www.advancedrepair.com) carries a restoration weatherstripping kit. I've found that some of their seals make the window almost too tight. Regardless of the company, you'll need to remove the sashes and route channels to accept the weatherstrip. Interior storms work nicely and for many people are a better option than triple tracks. I take mine out in the spring and install them in late fall, part of my get ready for winter ritual, but they're can be left in year round especially if you have air conditioning and are looking for the sound deadening advantage. Lots to choose from, some require that you install brackets or tracks on the jamb or header, others are press fit (which is what I went with). I didn't go with the low e-glass option. Based my decision on the fact that replacement windows, double or triple glazed, low e, etc. don't actually realize that much of a savings over a properly restored and weatherstripped old wooden sash (see FHB #192). Interior storms aren't cheap, but then again, neither is the cost of heating. FWIW, before we took the leap, I made interior storms from cut down 1x2s, compressible foam weatherstripping, and heat-shrink window weatherizing film. Used them for 3-4 years and they worked fine. Hope this helps, probably more than you wanted to know!