storm windows for my old windows?

Question

Just moved into my home last may, first winter here and its quite drafty. Done what I can to help stop the drafts but was wondering if someone makes or if I could order storm windows to put on the outside of my old wood windows. Currently I have screens outside of the windows and the screens fit in by using 4 plunger style pegs to keep them in place. Do they make, or can I buy storm windows to fit in there? And what kind of cost would I be looking per storm window? My average window size is about 36in w x 65in h (my unoffical guessimate)
any info is welcomed and will be helpful.
Thanks in advance
Ryan

Answer 1

I would try to get through this winter by putting on those temporary shrink wrap films. They come as a kit with a large sheet of thin plastic and a roll of tape. Cover all of your old window with a cut sheet of plastic. Fasten it on with the tape, pulling the plastic snug. Then take a hair dryer and apply heat to the plastic sheet to shrink it tight. You end up with a wind proof draft proof temporary storm window. When it gets warm take it down and junk it.

In the meantime get some estimates on exterior storm windows that fit over the entire old window and on replacing the entire set of windows. If you can afford it try one of those solutions. Otherwise next winter it is another shrink wrap kit.

Answer 2

i'm a siding and roofing contractor and i sell replacement windows because everybody thinks they need them. i put one in my house and it will be the last. it's a very good double pane, national brand with a great warranty. my house is a 1932 house and the window that i replaced was the bathroom one, it had been replaced before in the 60's when the bathroom was remodeled. i couldn't get the parts to fix it and a new wooden one would run more than a vinyl replacement since it isn't a standard size. on the rest of the house i will be installing new aluminum storm windows which when installed correctly over a properly installed and caulked wooden window are as good or better than the replacements. even the old windows like mine with the sash weight pockets. for right now i would suggest that you buy a roll of mortite caulk. it is a caulk that comes in a roll of ribbon strips, you can peel off one or two and put them in the seams of your windows and sashes and peel it off again in the spring. caulk the window trim to the siding and the window frame on the outside in the spring and then put on your storm windows and you won't have any more drafts. good luck, and i hope this helps.

Answer 3

If you put sill strips(that are used on bottom sill for outside doors) screwing them to the window fram and have the rubber against the windows you can seal out alot of draft and still use the window. On the frame that holds the glass I would put that shrink plastic on cut out the cold emmission from the glass.
I got shrink on all my alunimum frame windows and have done it in such a way, I still can open the windows - and the plastic has been on for 2 years.summer/winter.

Answer 4

I think there are more up to date ways to keep from getting drafts around your windows.
Check on some of the new vinyl windows that have double and triple glass. Make sure any new window is installed properly and very tight to prevent air coming in. Also put blinds or shades and lined draperies over windows. It really helps in cold weather.

Answer 5

I'd use the money toward replacement windows. Storm window over old wood window are still drafty.

Answer 6

You can have storm windows custom made for any size opening. Harvey Industries (harveyind.com), is just one of many companies.
Vinyl replacement windows won't cost you much more.

Answer 7

try this for a temporary fix: