Storm Windows and Your Home 

Being a homeowner is a tough job. It requires energy, effort, and diligence on a non-stop basis as things need updating, remodeling, or replacing. Now before the panic sets in, it's important to remember that home updates are actually simple! A great example of this is your home's storm windows. Replacing these can be done by following a few easy steps, however they do require attention to detail. 

Here are the steps to take in order to successfully replace the storm windows on your home and reap the benefits of preventative maintenance. 

 

Determine what type of windows you have.

Before you begin replacing anything, it's important to determine which type of windows you currently have. Residential windows tend to be classified as either Eastern or Western, depending on the structure of your home. Eastern windows are those found in homes with a wooden or aluminum exterior, while Western windows are found in those made of brick. Your window's style will affect how you need to go about installation as the jamb that attaches to the storm window's sash will be found on either the outside or inside of the molding, respectively. 

Get proper measurements. 

Many homeowners make the mistake of incorrectly measuring the space around their windows, thus creating serious headaches for themselves and the installers. If you don't get the measurements right, the replacement windows you order won't fit their openings. To do this, you'll need to measure the width of the window, from the inside of the molding to its corresponding side. Next, measure at the bottom, middle, and top to use the narrowest measurement for the width of the window you're replacing.

After measuring the width, determine the height by measuring from the sill to the top inside molding. Then measure the left, middle, and right sides, taking the shortest of the measurements as the height of your window. Why use the smallest measurements for windows? This is done in order to ensure that the flanges of the storm window fit within the exterior trim of the opening.

 

Scrape away old paint around the opening.

As you continue the process, it's a good idea to clean the area around your windows by scraping away any old paint or caulk from the opening. Doing this will ensure the tightest, most secure fit for your replacements.

 

Run a bead of caulk around window frame.

After cleaning the area, it's safe to run a thin bead of caulk around the window's frame, to eliminate any possible air gaps between where the flange of the window meets its frame. One thing to keep in mind, however, is to not use too much caulking and cover the window's weep holes. These are intentially a part of the window's design and can cause water marks and damage to your window opening over time.

 

Slide the sash down to ensure a proper fit.

Now it's time to place the replacement window into the window opening, but as you do so remember to slide down the sash to make sure that your previous measurements were correct. A snug installation is crucial to getting the most out of your storm window.

 

Insert expander to bottom of window.

Insert the expander to the bottom of the window to eliminate excess draft and unwanted weep holes, since this area can't receive a lot of caulking.

 

Insert storm window and screw flanges into the window frame.

All exterior storm windows are installed with flanges, which are metal flaps that you screw onto the frame to mount your new windows in place. This also would be adversely affected by improper or sloppy measurements.

 

Enjoy your new windows!

Now that the work is done you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the windows custom-fitted for your home.

Ready to Replace?

Protect your home and weather any storm by following these practical steps from ProEdge Remodeling!