Exterior "Storm window" pane required to winterize vinyl double pane windows????

I just happened to wonder about this. I have vinyl double pane storm windows, they are double hung with a screen that can go all the way up or down or be removed.

Just got to wondering, can there be any insulation advantage in winter to taking the screen out and replacing it with glass, like in old aluminum or wooden frame storm windows? I was just wondering if these types of windows are supossed to not need that, or if its something I should be doing.

Appreciate any input,

Visser

 

You're calling it a storm window but it is actually your "prime window". With the double panes you should not need any additional storm panels.

 

Go Mifune

no, you don't "need" the extra pane.

but, it will definitely help. and will pay for itself. at the condo i just sold, had double pane windows. i put the plastic on the inside, and it made a nice difference.

 

The problem with storms on vinyl windows is it can cause warping and seal failure due to the heat build up. Most vinyl windows will void any warranty if storms are installed.

The plastic on the inside is a different story, though you have to watch out for moisture.

 

even during the winter ?

in my case, the moisture stayed on the plastic.

 

Yes...even during the winter (though few people are going to take them off and reinstall each year). Say you get one of those odd days where the temp goes up to 70 in the middle of the winter (it's happened to me) and the sun is shining. The temp between the storm and window could reach 140-150 degrees. I measured the surface temp of a door with a full glass storm door that was exposed to the sun (against the manufacturers recommendations) and the surface temp was about 180 degrees. Granted the door was painted sort of a darker grey. The homeowner was complaining that the sealant from the glass was "melting" and the plastic frame was warping.....well DUH?

As to the moisture...every house is different. If you get enough condensation to form on the plastic then run down and drip...thats a problem.

 

ok. so, is there a way to do this ?
and/or
a window that this can be done to ?

 

I made my own storm windows. VERY strong. 1/4" plate tempered glass. HIGH wind area.

Got white PVC 100% plastic lumber at Lowes (1x6 I think) wood grain look on one side, routed slots on both sides, ripped in half lengthwise to get 2 pieces, very carefully measured openings, cut accurate 45* ends, assembled with silicone in slots PVC glue for ends + 3" screws.

A month after installing them I had 125mph wind storm & they saved my windows that would have broken for sure.

The only window that I didn't do this way was on 2 story & would have been scaffold work. (wish I had done it too) I bought a Larsen inside storm window. The outer tripple pane $$$ window broke out of its frame & pushed up against the Larsen.

 

I found this website which offer build-to-order storm panels that swap with your window screen. Check them out. Custom Window Screens | Patio Door Screens | Window Grilles, by ScreenItAgain Plus, they do window screens and grilles too.

 

I looked at the site and couldn't find "build-to-order storm panels that swap with your window screen". The video shows it without any details as to how it is held in place. If you are really going to pursue this project, I would go to a local glass shop and discuss it with them.

 

I just went there, and it is under Energy Saving storm panel. This looks pretty straight forward to order online, they walk you through the entire measuring and ordering process. It swaps out into the exsiting the screen track, and you can add from a myriad of fasteners.... Custom Window Screens | Patio Door Screens | Window Grilles, by ScreenItAgain They appear to be the nicest looking and best online screen replacement site I've ever seen. Someone order and post your experience..

 

I did find the info....but I don't like the fact that they list the material as a mylar film. Thats not going to be as good as a solid glass or polycarb panel.

 

Sorry, I missed the first time since they only show screen frames. Now I see what they do. They roll a piece of plastic film into a screen frame. Their descripition is: "Our Energy Saving Storm Panels, are made of flexible PVC film and sturdy aluminum frames". I don't know how sturdy they are since the frame is "rolled aluminum" which is very flimsy.

 

I ordered their storm panel and they are just fine. I have an old house and thought I'd try these. The mylar is flexible is held in with a metal spline that makes the frame stronger. I definitely feel less cold draft after putting these in. Hope this helps.