Storm Windows or Replacement Windows? - Contractor Talk - Professional Construction and Remodeling Forum

Mitch M · 06-22-2008, 03:17 PM

I have a client who is complaining about leaks around the doors and windows. Said they are pretty drafty. The windows are insulated but the frames apparently are not. They are wood windows with the metal tracks. I also took some infrared pictures of the windows and they are pretty leaky. I am meeting him Tuesday afternoon to do more scans for him and discuss options.
I have gotten prices on installing storm windows but I am not sure that is the best way to go in the long run. Any ideas anybody?

mdshunk · 06-22-2008, 03:23 PM

Best of luck getting storm windows. I was talking to a customer just a few weeks ago who priced out new storm windows, and for just a shade more he could get replacement windows. Supply and demand, I guess. You used to be able to get storm windows at any lumber yard. They probably haven't been stock at the lumber yards in 10 years. At least not around here.

Mitch M · 06-22-2008, 04:08 PM

I got a quote from the local subs. He does a good job and I have known him for a while. He did one of the historic buildings downtown.
Anyway his price is running about 114 for basic and 160 for better. this is installed.
I think a decent replacement window goes for around 300-400. I am not talking about those $189 guys either. I have heard too many bad stories on them.

Handyman Jim · 06-22-2008, 05:22 PM

If the customer is complaining about leaks around the windows and doors, the best option would be to replace the windows and add insulation, foam or whatever is necessary around the windows and doors. If money is tight storm windows will help, but customer may be unhappy when weather turns cold and what about the doors?

http://www.handymanjimnoonan.com

**genecarp** · 06-22-2008, 08:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Handyman Jim

If the customer is complaining about leaks around the windows and doors, the best option would be to replace the windows and add insulation, foam or whatever is necessary around the windows and doors. If money is tight storm windows will help, but customer may be unhappy when weather turns cold and what about the doors?

http://www.handymanjimnoonan.com

WHAT HE SAID

Patrick · 06-22-2008, 08:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mitch M

I got a quote from the local subs. He does a good job and I have known him for a while. He did one of the historic buildings downtown.
Anyway his price is running about 114 for basic and 160 for better. this is installed.
I think a decent replacement window goes for around 300-400. I am not talking about those $189 guys either. I have heard too many bad stories on them.

$114-160 installed for a storm window, is a CRAPPY storm window, not even worth the bother.

easy sider · 06-23-2008, 06:17 PM

Re-placement window would be better than a storm window. The only time we use storm windows these days is to preserve the interior window and opening. Often times on an older home the lack of sealant or insulation around the buildings openings will let air infiltrate, even with a new window.

Kenny K · 06-25-2008, 09:33 PM

not too much demand for storms. just a band aid-temporary, invest in the real deal

HomeSealed · 06-26-2008, 09:04 PM

Storms are a waste of money. They might stop the draft a little, but for the money you could get a lot more features/benefits/savings with a decent replacement.

BreyerConstruct · 12-03-2008, 09:54 AM

If I may dredge this older post up...

Has anyone ever had any experience with a storm window insert that is spring loaded & fits in the screen track?

I ask because I've got a few junk windows on my own house, and while the windows work & look OK for what/where they are... a full storm window wouldn't be a viable option, but an insert might.

Anyway, I didn't know if such an animal existed.

I know, I know... I've just destroyed my reputation for high-class work with this low-dollar question!

Thanks guys!
~Matt