Storm windows over insulated glass?
Chevyimpalaconv
| Posted in Energy, Heating & Insulation on
I have just replaced all my windows with insulated glass replacement units. I had previously installed very good storm windows and I am thinking about reinstalling them over the new windows??
The window installer thinks I am nuts to do this!!
Any thought on the subject.
I thought this was address in FineHomeBuilding but I can not find the answer on it??
Replies
If you do this, and they're triple tracks, make sure you check the operation of the storms. You might not be able to easily get them in or out, or move the glass/screen up and down. I worked on a house where they did this and the old trip. tracks were a bitch to move around. Woman almost chopped off her finger on a big one trying to move the storm up and the screen down.
edit: Welcome to breaktime.
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Edited 9/27/2007 9:01 pm ET by calvin
I've done this a few times. I don't find the new windows to be so wonderful looking that I feel bad covering them up as a general rule. I want the extra insulation.
Calvin has a good point about checking the movement and making sure everything works.
Don K.
EJG Homes Renovations - New Construction - Rentals
It'd be quiet.
I'd do it for that alone.
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If they are vinyl replacements I might be a bit concerned about heat build up if they recieve a good deal of direct sunlight.
Otherwise I would probably do it. Extra insulating value and as mentioned potential for noise reduction as a bonus.
Chevy,
You might want to check with the window manufacturer about this.
I am aware that there have been issues concerning "Low E " glass being a problem due to over heating if a 3rd. layer is added. The reflected radiant heat is trapped between the outside window and the storm if I understand things correctly. Added heat build causes seal failure as well as potential glass failure.
"Poor is not the person who has too little, but the person who craves more."...Seneca
Yeah, be concerned about heat buildup, especially with dark-colored and/or plastic-skinned windows. But otherwise no problem -- just make sure the weep holes are clear.