Storm windows vs. replacement windows....need advice

[homeonthelittlemountain]

Originally Posted by K'ledgeBldr

There are window manufacturers that can replicate period windows yet have the most up to date energy efficiency. And there are other companies that can take your existing windows and just replace the glazing with IG glazing units- you maintain the original window with more energy efficiency.

I will ask about the possibility of just replacing the glass in the existing windows. Thanks for this.

[JanND]

Originally Posted by homeonthelittlemountain

I guess I've been living under a rock when it comes to housing updates and maintenance. Here's the story:

We moved into a new home about a year ago. It is a 1950s all brick custom built rancher situated on top of the ridge of a small mountain in Maryland. The wind does whip over this mountain and storm windows are a necessity.

The house was meticulously maintained over the years but the home has old aluminum storm windows that are beginning to disintegrate and there are no screens on these storm windows. The original windows are in perfect condition. Almost like new. We are only the third owners of this house and no children have ever lived here. Guess that's why. Ha!

So yesterday I called around to a few window/glass stores about replacement storm windows and was surprised when all but one store told me they don't sell storm windows, only replacement windows.

What? When did this happen? I don't want to replace all my windows that were specially made for this home. Yes, I understand they might not be as efficient as new windows but architecturally they fit the home. And I figured new storm windows would help with the efficiency aspect.

I heard the same story from three stores. Then I called a glass shop and was told they could special order storm windows for me. They are coming out to give me an estimate next week.

What am I missing here? Should I consider new windows? That seems so wasteful and I know I won't like the look as much as the original windows. Am I getting the straight story about storm windows?

We bought storm windows online at a very reasonable cost which are working great. We ordered them and they were delivered to our local Menards. My husband installed them.

We ordered the ones with screens, so that you install them and then they are on sliders so that there is not taking down seasonally.

I thought that they were reasonably priced, especially considering we could use our existing windows and install these on the outside without any retro fitting needed.

I would suggest that you look online.
https://www.larsondoors.com/find-a-p...ategory=Window

[JonahWicky]

Triple track storm/screen windows are the way to go. The window companies want to sell you windows at $500 or more a piece, which is why they tell you that storm windows aren't an option. Keep the original look of your house and add storms.

There's no huge benefit to reglazing your existing windows, and the cost would probably be prohibitive.

[longneckone]

As a person who has replacement windows let me say if you can buy Storm Windows get them the extra air space between the windows would be great insulation.

[K'ledgeBldr]

Originally Posted by JonahWicky

Triple track storm/screen windows are the way to go. The window companies want to sell you windows at $500 or more a piece, which is why they tell you that storm windows aren't an option. Keep the original look of your house and add storms.

There's no huge benefit to reglazing your existing windows, and the cost would probably be prohibitive.

Triple-tracks are like a boil-
This is a custom built home with very specific windows. Why would you go muck it up with some monstrosity like triple-tracks.

Reglazing may be "expensive" (everything is relative), but if retaining the "look"/appeal of the home is tantamount then I think the expense is well worth it.