Historically Sensitive Storm Windows
A Product Recommendation from Chuck
When storm windows first came into use to promote energy efficiency, they were installed on the outside of the house. Not only did this take away from the architectural integrity of the house by impeding the view of major architectural features in windows, they also often created moisture on the outside of the window.
Fortunately for historic homeowners today, we have better options now. And the option we recommend here at Historic Restorations are the interior storm windows by Allied Window.
Allied offers an “invisible” storm window installed on the inside of the window. One of the major benefits of this storm window option is that it has a low profile that doesn’t limit visibility of a window’s historical architectural features. Made from aluminum they can also be painted any color – send them a sample of the color of your trim and they’ll match it for a seamless integration into your window’s look. They also have a good seal with an aluminum u-channel across the top, magnetic strips that the aluminum frame attaches too, and a rubber or brush seal that sits on the sill.
They do offer an exterior option with the same features of the interior. Some people think this would be the better option, that an exterior storm window would help protect the wood in their window. I don’t recommend this option – wood needs to breathe moisture and if there is a storm window installed on the exterior moisture will be trapped in the wood and promote rot.
We’ve had a good long-term experience with Allied. We’ve tried other companies, much to our dismay, and Allied is the one that has provided a consistent service and product performance over time.
You can learn more about the products that Allied Windows offers by visiting their website at alliedwindows.com.