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What is a storm window?

A storm window is an extra window attached inside or outside an existing primary window. ENERGY STAR specification 1.0 covers both placements. It works best over a functioning window in good condition, so assess the original frame before choosing an attachment instead of full replacement.

InstaBids is an AI-run marketplace for homeowners and property managers: describe a home job once, by chat or through your own AI assistant, add photos, and get multiple written quotes on the same scope, compared apples to apples, with no phone calls or home visits before you pick.

By InstaBids editorial team with AI research agents. Updated

What this means for your home project

  1. Inspect the original window, sill and weather stripping; note any damaged or missing parts for repair or replacement before fitting the storm window. Source: Building America Solution Center (PNNL / U.S. Department of Energy), read 2026-11-03.
  2. Use the product label’s map to identify the regions intended for that model before choosing it for your home. Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03.
  3. Request a written installation scope showing sealant at the side jambs and top head, an unsealed sill, and screw fastening according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Source: Building America Solution Center (PNNL / U.S. Department of Energy), read 2026-11-03.
  4. For exterior storm windows, identify the small drainage openings at the bottom and confirm the proposed caulking leaves them open. Source: Building America Solution Center (PNNL / U.S. Department of Energy), read 2026-11-03.
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What is a “low-e” storm window?

For a cold-weather upgrade, compare coated glass with clear glass before specifying the added panel. “A storm window with low-e glass has a microscopically thin, almost invisible, durable coating that reduces heat loss through the window glass when it is cold outside, saving on heating bills.” Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03. “Some low-e glass also has a low solar transmittance (Tsol) rating that blocks heat coming in from the outside and can help to keep your house cooler in the summer, saving on air conditioning bills.” Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03.

Are your current windows still in good condition for adding storm windows?

Treat visible frame rot as a reason to discuss full replacement before ordering an attachment for that opening. “If your current windows are rotted, not operating properly, or damaged beyond reasonable repair, adding low-e storm windows may not be appropriate.” Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03. “Cracked or rotting sills need to be replaced prior to any installations being done.” Source: Building America Solution Center (PNNL / U.S. Department of Energy), read 2026-11-03.

Do your current windows open and close, and will storm windows match?

For a bedroom project, put escape access on the scope discussion before selecting an opening style. “Interior and exterior storm windows are available in both operable and fixed models.” Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03. “Choose a storm window that matches the operability of your current windows.” Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03. “This is especially important when installing storm windows in bedrooms and other places where emergency escape and rescue windows may be needed or are required by building codes.” Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03.

Do I need my storm windows to have safety glass?

For an opening near stairs, ask the local building department which glazing requirement applies before ordering. “Safety glass is stronger than regular glass and is designed to shatter into little pieces (instead of larger, more dangerous shards) when broken.” Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03. “There may be state or local residential building codes that require safety glass in storm-prone regions or more accident-prone locations in the home (near stairs, for example).” Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03.

Are your current windows tinted before adding storm windows?

For a room where daylight is a priority, discuss the existing glazing before selecting a coated addition. “If your current windows already have tinted glass, adding a low-e storm window may reduce the visible light transmitted through the window, making them even darker.” Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03.

Do you live in a place where the temperature gets extremely hot (above 115 degrees Fahrenheit)?

For an already glazed opening in extreme summer heat, evaluate the alternatives before adding another layer. “If you already have double-pane or low-e coated windows and you live in a hot, sunny climate where the temperature frequently goes above 115 degrees Fahrenheit, you should consider awnings, solar screens or full replacement with ENERGY STAR certified low-SHGC windows as an alternative to storm windows.” Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03.

What should you consider when purchasing storm windows?

Before ordering, compare the product label’s climate map with the house location using ENERGY STAR specification 1.0. “The following is the Version 1.0 product specification for ENERGY STAR certified exterior and interior storm windows.” Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03. “Therefore, every ENERGY STAR certified storm window has a label with a map to indicate which part of the country that product is designed for.” Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03. “ENERGY STAR certified storm windows must meet the emissivity, solar transmittance (Tsol), and air leakage requirements based on climate zone.” Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03. “Emissivity: The relative ability of a surface to reflect or emit heat by radiation.” Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03. “Emissivity ranges from 0 to 1.” Source: ENERGY STAR, read 2026-11-03.

How long does it take to install storm windows?

Plan access with the installer before treating a short fitting estimate as the whole project schedule. “If the existing window is in good shape, the installation of an exterior low-E storm window is quick and easy, requiring only simple tools and less than about 20 minutes of time (Figure 8).” Source: Building America Solution Center (PNNL / U.S. Department of Energy), read 2026-11-03. “It can be a do-it-yourself task, although contractor installation may be advised, especially for upper-story installations.” Source: Building America Solution Center (PNNL / U.S. Department of Energy), read 2026-11-03.

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