However, replacing your windows is probably the best thing you can do for the safety and energy efficiency of your home, other than keeping your roof healthy. Not only that, but new windows may also increase your home’s privacy by keeping it quieter and making it harder for people passing by to peek. Still, what if you don’t have the money for a window replacement? Is it possible to get the same or similar effect with window inserts? Let’s find out!
1. Interior storm windows
The best thing about interior storm windows is that they’re installed inside your home. This means that they’re not visible from the outside, making them ideal for improving the energy efficiency of historic homes, where you’re not allowed to change the exterior.
These perfectly functional storm windows create an additional barrier between the interior and the home’s exterior. Since they provide an extra layer, they stop any potential draft, reduce the amount of noise going through these barriers, and increase the energy efficiency in the room.
This is great both for keeping the place warm and cooling it in the summer. Since it’s an inexpensive investment and it saves you energy, it’s safe to say that it’s a decision that will bring an incredible ROI to any homeowner.
These windows are usually cheaper than exterior storm windows because they’re not designed to withstand harsh weather occurrences and conditions. They won’t be exposed to extreme cold, flying debris, or hail. This is why they’re usually made of softer materials with stronger thermic properties.
2. Exterior storm windows
These are the standard storm windows, and they’re probably what you thought of when we first mentioned exterior storm windows.
From the very start, it’s clear that these were made to be more resistant to storms, strong wind, rain, snow, and flying debris. They’re more durable, made from studier material, and usually far more potent in keeping your home energy-efficient.
They do transform the exterior of your home, but not to a degree to which a complete window replacement would do this. Therefore, in a lot of scenarios where you’re dealing with historic homes (as we’ve discussed in the previous segment), you would be allowed to install exterior storm windows.
It’s also worth keeping in mind that they are placed over your existing windows to protect them. This means that if the climate is hostile, it might be worth installing them even if your windows are pretty decent. The truth is that these windows are less expensive, and if they get damaged in the process, the material damage will not be as great.
3. Acoustic window inserts
Windows have more than one function. They’re not just there to provide transparency and keep your home safe, warm, and dry. Instead, they’re a barrier that’s supposed to provide you some privacy and shield what’s going on in your home from the outside world.
Now, some windows are positioned so that they aren’t that easy to peer through. In fact, if your architect is careful enough (and understands their assignment), this will be true for all your windows. The problem is that the sound will still escape your home. This means that you can’t even practice music or listen to horror movies in your own home without someone calling the police.
It gets even worse, which means that if you have noisy neighbors or live a bit closer to the street than you would like, you might get disturbed by outside traffic and passer-by chatter.
Both of these problems can be solved with acoustic window inserts. These are specially designed to improve the acoustics of your home (less reflective surfaces than regular glass/acrylic) and far lower the transfer of noise between rooms or interior/exterior.
4. Window film
Sometimes, it’s not about adding that much extra thickness to your windows. There are scenarios in which you just want to reduce glare in your home (regardless of whether you’re using curtains, shades, or blinds). Additionally, home window tinting films offer an effective way to increase privacy and block harmful UV rays without altering the appearance of your windows. Not only does home window tinting help maintain cooler indoor temperatures, especially during the warmer months, but it also adds a sleek layer of privacy to your space.
These films are thin, transparent sheets that you apply directly to the glass. The best thing about this is that there’s no preparation or high skill gap regarding who can apply them. You just need to measure and have steady hands while applying them.
Most importantly, they also add a layer of privacy (no pun intended) and some extra UV protection, which some people are really sensitive about.
Now, let us be completely clear and transparent – this is the simplest and cheapest window insert for a reason. They’re the least effective insulation, which is why you’re considering window inserts to begin with. Still, the decision won’t be that hard to make since they are the cheapest.
5. Thermal curtains and drapes
Ultimately, while this may not be a window or a window insert, it doesn’t enhance the performance of your existing windows and fulfills the same role.
Another thing you should keep in mind is that this is not exclusive to any other option you choose to go for. You can get interior or exterior storm windows, apply window film, and still get thermal curtains. This way, you’ll get to reap the optimal energy-efficient effect.
The best thing about them is that they can be drawn closed in the evening and opened during the day. In other words, they’re quite adjustable and provide you with extra insulation, privacy, and light control whenever you estimate that you need them.
Wrap up
In the end, it all comes down to your conditions and priorities. First, ask what you’re trying to do. If you just want to improve energy efficiency, either interior or exterior inserts will do, while thermal curtains may also assist. If you want to keep the place quieter, go with acoustic window inserts; if you want to keep it dimmer, film or curtains will help. Ultimately, if you want to provide some extra protection to your windows, go with exterior storm windows. If you’re in a historic home, sometimes the interior windows are the only option. It’s that simple.
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