Sunday, July 1, 2012

Installing Storm Windows in Your Home


The installation of storm windows in your home can be a large and expensive project, especially if you have a large house. The associated effort and costs can be a deterrent to many homeowners because they don’t have a full understanding of how beneficial storm windows really are. The benefits of these improvements are numerous, and they will pay for themselves much more quickly than you might imagine.

The advantage most commonly associated with storm windows is energy efficiency. 

Heating and cooling bills have shown a steady rise over the past several years, and the potential for a drop in energy costs seems pretty unlikely anytime soon. It is more important than ever to find new ways to decrease your heating and cooling costs. Storm windows provide an extra layer of protection to help prevent the movement of cool or warm air between the interior and exterior of your home. In the wintertime, cold air can leak in around old windows, making it difficult to keep your home warm without turning up the heat. 

Conversely, cold air can leak out in the summertime, driving up your energy bill as your air conditioner battles the sweltering temperatures outside.

Storm windows can also protect your home from damaging elements such as wind, rain and sun. Windows and window sills are some of the most vulnerable areas in a home, and the costs of replacement and repair can add up quickly when exposure to the elements begins to take its toll. Rain can lead to mildew and decay on wooden window sills, and this kind of damage can spread to walls and support beams if it goes unchecked. Similarly, wind and sun can cause fading and cracking of wood – not to mention the dangers to the window glass. Storm windows will keep these elements safely away from these vulnerable areas, combating the need for costly repairs.

Aside from these more practical benefits, storm windows can also drastically improve the value of a home. The added efficiency and durability of these storm windows will keep your windows looking their best, making your home more attractive to buyers (if you intend to sell in the future). This increase curb appeal will raise your property value as well as lowering your energy costs and saving you from the hassle of home repairs.

Most vendors of storm windows offer reasonably priced installment options. You want your investment to be handled quickly and professionally, so it’s a good idea to take advantage of such offerings. While you may be an ambitious homeowner that prefers to handle such projects personally, bear in mind that this can be a major undertaking, and trying to accomplish the task without assistance simply to save money can be time-consuming. Bear in mind that windows are structure elements within a house, and failure to install them properly can lead to support and settling issues. If you aren’t 100% certain that you know how to properly install your new windows, seek the services of a trained professional.