 | Roy Schmucker
is a manager and six-year employee of the Pella Window Store in Wichita, KS. He has been in the construction business in the Wichita area over the last 20 years. Continued training and learning in today's construction world is an important factor to remaining knowledgeable for today's consumers. The past 2 years, Roy has been a member of the Wichita Area Remodelers Council to keep up with all the changes in home improvements, encompassing laws and trends.
He has been a licensed contractor and has specialized in many areas. Roy enjoys seeing the final result of a beautiful project and a happy customer. Any questions you may have regarding any remodel or replacement issues please feel free to contact Roy by phone at (316) 686-6900, or at raschmucker@149.pellapdsn.com |
Home Improvement
2003-06-01 12:47:00
Storm Windows
: Is it better to use interior or exterior storm windows?
ANSWER: For the most part, interior storm windows offer greater convenience than exterior storm windows. They are easier to install and remove and often need less maintenance because they are not exposed to extreme weathering. Interior storm window designs may also complement interior decor. Since they reduce air infiltration better, they also reduce energy loss more than exterior types. Interior types inhibit air infiltration the most because they seal airtight to the primary window. This creates a superior dead-air space relative to exterior storm windows, which require weep holes. Exterior storm windows require weep holes to allow any rain that may be driven behind them or water vapor from inside the house that condenses in the space between the primary window and the storm window to run out of the window. If an interior storm window is sealed tightly to the primary window, the insulation value of the window increases by about R-1 for ordinary glass or plastic. If the glazing has low-e properties then the R-value increase could be as much as 2. The pay back period (the time it takes for the money from energy savings to pay for the purchase and installation of storm windows) depends on the initial cost of the windows, the climate, and the cost of fuel. Pay back for storm windows in most climates can take decades. This may be offset by the increase in room comfort (fewer drafts) and perhaps an increase in your house's value, although most home buyers will probably prefer modern energy-efficient replacement windows.) If you can afford to install exterior storm windows, you can probably afford modern, energy-efficient replacement windows. Replacement windows that have low-e coatings and other energy saving features give a much better pay back than storm windows alone. They also add much more to the value of, and comfort in, the house. In any case, when making a decision on what type of storm window to buy, in addition to the price, you should consider the following factors: Convenience: Since storm windows must be periodically cleaned or opened for ventilation, they should be easy to move. Interior storm windows are often the best choice for apartments and houses with more than one floor. Appearance: Consider how it will effect the overall look of your dwelling. Maintenance: Remember that some types of storm windows require more maintenance than other types.
