Every year, with the approach of the first of June, homeowners in hurricane-prone areas of the country brace-up for impact. It is the start of the storm season and the time of year when the storm windows go up. In homes everywhere in the area, homeowners go to work adding layers of reinforcement to their windows to protect them from incoming storms.

In November when storm season ends and more clement weather returns, these storm windows also go away. Homeowners start to dismantle their storm windows and stow them away until the next year when the routine is repeated.

For people living in places that are seasonally besieged by violent storms these yearly rituals are a necessity because storm windows help to:

• Protect the home's primary windows from damage during a storm. By acting as a shield they prevent the impact of wind and debris from reaching the main windows. They also protect the windows from damage caused by prolonged exposure to the elements.
• Add an extra level of insulation to the home by trapping layers of air between the primary windows and the storm windows. The air cushion between the two windows reduces the amount of air seeping into the home.
• Increase the home's energy efficiency and reduce the energy bill. Storm windows prevent the infiltration of air into the home. This allows the HVAC system of the home to do less work, while still heating or cooling the home more efficiently.
• Reduce the amount of noise pollution in the home. Storm windows soundproof the home by cutting down on the amount of street noise and other loud noise entering the home.

Storm windows are a must-have for homes located in areas where storms happen frequently. Yet it is possible to have all the advantages of storm windows without the hassle of installing and removing them every year. This is possible when replacement storm windows are installed in place of temporary ones.

These permanent storm windows have the versatility that allows them to stay functional all year-round. They provide all the benefits of the other type of storm windows and do not interfere with the function of a home's primary windows, explains TrustHome Properties in Orlando. Installing this type of storm window saves the homeowner's time and improves the overall function of the home's windows.

Here are the things to look for when buying replacement storm windows:

Considerations when buying replacement storm windows

• Window type: Homes will have single-hung, double-hung, or slider-windows. Each window type has its own specific operation which will affect the type of storm window to buy.
• Storm window quality: Storm windows have to be sturdy enough to withstand the force of strong winds. Windows with overlapping corner joints do this better than those with mitered corners.
• Weather-stripping: A buffering layer with weather-stripping is essential to completely seal any openings and prevent wind penetration and damage.
• Low-E glass: This glass has a thin layer of coating that reduces the amount of harmful UV and infrared rays getting into the home. The feature also improves the windows' energy efficiency.
• Burglar proofing: Windows with multi-point locks are better than those with single-point locks. They combine different locking mechanisms that make breaking into the home harder.
• Ventilation and maintenance: The best storm windows will come with adjustable ventilation stops on their inner track. Some of their components - glass and screen - will also be removable for easy cleaning.
• Ease of installation: Storm window models with pre-drilled holes make for an easier installation process.

Storm window options

There are several types of storm windows, with the main difference between them being the materials their frames are made of. The materials of the window determine their cost and durability. 

1.    Aluminum storms windows

These are the most popular storm windows. They are simultaneously lightweight and strong. They require very little maintenance and are almost completely resistant to rust and corrosion. Depending on how well the windows are treated, they will last from 20 to 35 years. The single biggest problem with aluminum windows is their tendency to retain heat.

2.    Vinyl storm windows

 

Vinyl windows are less popular than aluminum but ahead of wood storm windows.  And just like aluminum, they are lightweight and strong. But vinyl windows do not handle heat well. They are prone to warp and crack if exposed to extreme temperatures. Most vinyl storm windows come with stabilizers that improve their heat resistance capabilities. They have a lifespan of around 20 years.

3.    Wood storm windows

These windows come with all the positive insulation properties of wood. At the same time, being made of natural wood, they will tend to contract and expand with the ambient temperature. This means they tend to break down faster. But if the window wood frames come wrapped with vinyl or aluminum, this problem is solved. Wood windows can last as long as 100 years if they are of the vinyl- or aluminum-wrapped variety.

Along with reducing airflow into the home, storm windows also limit dust and allergens. If the windows are carefully chosen and well-looked after, they can keep providing these benefits for decades.