Home : Options : Storm Windows
Storm Windows Explained And Broken Down
Explore storm windows, which are essentially inserts placed on the exterior of existing windows to protect from extreme weather events. Because they are a much less costly than hurricane windows, storm windows are often a welcome alternative for many homeowners. Let's take a look at the advantages, disadvantages, pricing, and popular manufacturers of these very interesting window style.
My Take On These: A great mid term option if impact windows are not within your budget.
(Always Get 3 to 4 Local Price Quotes)
Dane - Site Editor
Original Publish Date - March 15, 2015
Page Last Updated On January 21, 2025
Storm Windows Cost: $$
(2 out of 5)
(Amongst All Window Styles)
Get Our Recommended Window List
Also please consider filling out the free form on our site for 3 quality window price quotes — it’s how we afford to provide free consumer information. We’re not incentivized by ANY company and will help you with ANY questions you might have, and help you navigate ANY bids you receive. That’s our guarantee to you!
dane@replacementwindowsreviews.co
Storm Windows Basics
Storm windows are placed over the existing window as an added layer of protection for the existing windows. They are often a single pane of glass with an aluminum, fiberglass or vinyl frame. In some cases, homeowners choose to place the inserts on the inside of the existing window. Often, this is to improve the look of the existing windows, without the cost of hurricane windows.
Storm Windows Prices
Storm windows will run $75 to $300 fully installed for a standard sized opening and installation. The installation is relatively simple, but should be done by someone who knows what they are doing. Essentially, an installer inserts them on the outside of the existing window for added protection against weather.
Storm windows are a great low cost alternative to full impact windows. Impact or hurricane replacements will run $500 to $1500 fully installed, compared to the much more reasonable cost of storm windows.
Advantages
The cost of the window is by far the biggest advantage. The other advantage is the flexibility, since they can go either on the inside or outside of the window depending on the homeowner's need and the current set up. For instance, if your home has beautiful or historic windows, but are not very energy efficient and not super strong, then the storm window will be placed on the outside. If you want to improve the look of the windows from the inside, then you would want to look at interior inserts.
Disadvantages
The big disadvantage is that storm windows don't always look exactly right with your existing windows. However, well made storms that fit into the current opening do look very nice, but they can look a bit funky if the fit isn't right. Lower end vinyl storm inserts can be somewhat flimsy feeling and might be a decent temporary fix, but may not be a good long term solution.
Additionally, your current windows must be okay shape for storm windows to be an option. However, if the contractor sees significant damage to the sill or frame, they may recommend a full replacement. This is one area where getting a few estimates can really help.
Recommended Manufacturers
Check out some of the top companies and our top recommendations to protect from these severe weather events.
Indow Window Inserts
ProVia Storm Windows
Larson Storm Windows
Storm Replacement Windows
Hi Dane, I’m going with the Okna window series. Does everyone discard their old storm windows when getting these replacements? It seems to me they having that extra layer of protection in the winter would be beneficial. Would it cause fogged windows all the time? Currently, I sometimes leave to top window open when it’s raining with a storm window screen at the bottom and a glass at the top. This way I get air but no rain entering. Lastly, I heard that Larson makes good vinyl inserts. What’s your experience?
Joe - Homeowner - from 2019
[Site Editor's Answer]
Joe, I don't live an an environment that gets a lot of rain, but I don't see the harm in leaving the storm windows up. The only issue is ventilation/air flow in the summer for the movable windows. In terms of windows fogging, you may get some, but give it a go at the beginning and see how it works. If you don't like them or need them, you can always sell or donate them. Enjoy the Okna windows, they make an excellent vinyl window.
Tim - Site Editor - from 2019
Related Topics: Vinyl Windows Reviews
* Sunroom Windows Cost