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Windows

Replacement Storm Windows Guide

Average cost range:

$172 - $320

The average cost range for replacement storm windows in your home is $172 to $320 per window, with a national average of $205 per window. This cost includes both materials and labor. These windows are a low-cost investment that can better insulate and protect your home. Talk to a reputable local contractor about your window needs to get the most accurate pricing for your home and geographical area.

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What Are Replacement Storm Windows?

Storm windows are windows that are installed over a home’s existing windows to offer additional protection from harsh weather and increased energy efficiency. They can also be installed over windows in older or historic homes to preserve their original architecture and help meet stringent community design guidelines.

Where Are Storm Windows Installed?

Storm windows can be installed on top of nearly any type of residential window. The most common type of storm window is installed on a home’s exterior, with several operable or fixed options depending on the manufacturer. There are also storm windows constructed for interior installation that offer additional insulation and energy efficiency — because they are located on the inside they do not offer protection to the existing window.

Storm windows are a great alternative to replacing single pane windows. They are weather resistant, affordable, and energy-efficient.

hurricane window installation

How Do Storm Windows Operate?

Replacement storm windows can be operable or fixed, meaning some models can open and close, while others cannot. The most common storm window features a double track that allows for easy operation: one track includes glass on top and a screen on the bottom, and the second track includes a glass panel that moves up and down.

A triple-track storm window is an option to preserve the functionality of a double hung window. This type of storm window features two glass panes and a screen in separate tracks that allow opening at the top or bottom to control airflow.

Storm Windows Replacement Costs

Adding storm windows can improve a home’s energy efficiency without the higher costs of replacing existing windows. The average cost to install a storm window is $172–$320. For comparison, single-hung window replacement costs range from $397 to $847, and a double-hung window from $388 to $828.

While storm window installation is a popular DIY home improvement project, it requires precise measuring and drilling into your home’s window frame. A professional window installer can ensure a proper fit, and the average labor cost per window ranges from $70 to $150.

Storm Windows

Average Installation Cost $172 - $320

Cost Breakdown

  • Materials 84.5%
  • Labor 15.5%

Factors That Affect Storm Window Costs

  • Size: Larger storm windows cost more than smaller windows. Custom sizes also have a higher price tag.
  • Type: Typically, the more moving parts a storm window has, the higher the price. Expect to pay more for a triple-track storm window compared to a double-track or basement storm window.
  • Material: Framing material and glass type will also affect the cost of storm windows. Aluminum and standard glass are the most cost-effective framing material and glass, respectively.
  • Local installation and labor: If you plan to have storm windows professionally installed, expect to pay between $70 – $150 on average per window.

Storm windows are considered a worthwhile investment by window professionals, since they are low-cost and can efficiently protect your home from harsh weather. Keep in mind that costs can vary depending on the type of storm windows you choose and the average cost of professional installation in your area.

Types of Storm Windows

Replacement storm windows come in a few different types to accommodate your specific needs and how you would like them to function.

Exterior Storm Windows

Exterior storm windows are installed on the outside of your home’s existing window. There are models that can be installed temporarily or permanently, and with or without open and closing capabilities.

  • A two-track storm window features a glass panel and screen combination. A second inside glass panel opens from the bottom.
  • A three-track storm window includes two glass panels and a screen on separate tracks to allow operation from the top or bottom.
  • A basement storm window is a fixed, single-paned window with a latch opening.

Interior Storm Windows

If you only wish to improve your home’s energy efficiency, an interior storm window may be a good choice. This type of storm window reduces drafts and increases insulation around your existing window without altering the look of your home’s exterior. They are available in styles that pressure or magnetically install as well as styles that attach to the interior window jamb.

Disposable Storm Windows

Commonly sold as kits, disposable storm windows are pieces of clear plastic with framing strips you can cut to size and install on top of existing windows.

Storm Window Materials

Aluminum and wood are the most common framing materials for storm windows. Aluminum is the most popular given its durability and ability to withstand the elements. To preserve the look of a home’s architecture, wood storm windows are a good choice.

Storm windows are available in standard or low-e glass panes. Low-E or low emissivity glass is manufactured with a thin transparent coating that reflects heat, keeping your home warm in the winter and cooler when it’s hot outside.

Plexiglass panels are available for interior storm windows, however are not recommended for the exterior because they do not provide as much protection as glass.

Benefits of installing storm windows

Considering your budget and the condition of your existing windows, storm windows can be a temporary and permanent solution and provide a number of benefits:

Weather Protection

Exterior storm windows provide your home with another layer of protection from heavy rains and high winds.

Reduced Energy Consumption

Storm windows reduce drafts and make your home more airtight and energy efficient. Households with storm windows installed over single pane windows save $350 on average annually on their energy bills.

Noise Reduction

An added benefit of storm windows is their noise-reduction capability. Storm windows dampen outside noises, an added benefit if you live in a higher-density neighborhood or along a busy street.

Affordable

Storm windows are a more affordable solution to older and drafty windows. If your existing windows are in decent condition, adding storm windows could increase your home’s comfort and energy efficiency for a fraction of the cost of a full window replacement.

How to Install Storm Windows

If you have the right tools and an afternoon, installing storm windows is a relatively simple project you can do yourself.

To install an exterior storm window:

  1. Clean the existing window and make any necessary repairs.
  2. Position the storm window over the opening and check for fit.
  3. Caulk the top and sides of the storm window’s backside, leaving the bottom clean.
  4. Position the storm window over the opening, then push it into place.
  5. Screw the storm window into the window frame.
  6. Adjust the included expander to fit snugly against the windowsill.

To install an interior storm window:

Most interior storm windows feature a compression-fit or magnetic-strip installation. Some interior storm window styles screw into the windowsill or hang from a bracket that attaches to the top window jamb. Measure your interior window opening accurately to ensure a snug and secure seal and install the storm window according to your manufacturer’s instructions.

Though replacing a storm window is generally easier than replacing a whole window, most homeowners prefer to have a contractor handle installation so that it is done properly. If you are planning to install multiple storm windows, it is best to get an idea of your total window installation costs beforehand so you can negotiate with your contractor.

What to Consider Before Buying Storm Windows 

storm windows

If you have decided on storm windows for your home, there are a few factors that may influence your purchase.

Storm Window Brand and Quality

Many of the top and most recognizable window manufacturers offer a line of storm windows. Renewal by Andersen, Marvin Windows, Simonton Windows, and Pella Windows all feature various types and sizes of storm windows. Warranty coverage also varies from 10 years to lifetime — all have coverage limitations and requirements, so know your product’s warranty before you buy.

Energy Efficiency

Storm windows are available with low-E glass panels that reflect heat. While they increase the energy efficiency of older or single-pane windows, they do not offer much added protection if you already have double or triple pane windows installed in your home.

Climate

Where you live may dictate the type of storm window you need. For example, in regions with high amounts of moisture, aluminum-framed windows provide more corrosion resistance than other materials.

Lifespan

Well-maintained storm aluminum storm windows can last 30 years or longer. With regular painting and sealing, wood frames can last even longer.

Cleaning and Maintenance

More window parts take longer to clean, so expect to spend more time maintaining triple-track windows. A window with more moving parts is also more vulnerable to wear and tear and may require more frequent repairs over its lifespan.

Finding Storm Window Installers

Installing storm windows can be a straightforward DIY project, but window location and the complexity of the project may be a better fit for a pro. Use Modernize’s window project calculator for a budgetary estimate and to connect with local installers for a custom quote.

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FAQ

What is the difference between interior vs. exterior storm windows?

The main difference between the two window types is the amount of protection they offer. Both increase your home’s energy efficiency, but only exterior storm windows protect your existing windows from the elements.


Are all storm windows the same?

Storm windows vary in operation and materials. Models come with glass panels that open up and down or to the side to accommodate single or double hung windows, sliding windows, and basement or picture windows.


How much difference does a storm window make?

For homes with standard single pane windows, storm windows can improve energy efficiency and save approximately $350 annually on energy costs.


Are storm windows better than double pane windows?

Storm windows installed over standard single pane windows offer similar energy-saving benefits to double pane windows.


Should I install storm windows or window replacements?

It depends on the condition of your existing windows. If your windows are in decent shape, adding storm windows can be a cost-effective project that offers increased protection and improves your home’s energy efficiency.


Are storm windows and hurricane windows different?

While storm windows and hurricane windows are often used interchangeably, they are not the same. Hurricane windows are constructed with laminated glass to better withstand impacts and high winds from powerful storms.


Are there government regulations for installing storm windows?

ENERGY STAR® certified storm windows must comply with the program’s specifications and requirements.