How Much Do Storm Windows Cost?
Highlights
The typical cost range for storm window installation is between $3,262 and $17,267, with a national average cost of $10,081.
The main factors that affect storm window cost include the size, style, and brand of the windows; the number of windows needed; the frame material; the type of window pane; the style of the track; the location of the windows; and the cost of labor.
Storm windows offer many advantages, such as weather and storm protection, noise reduction, increased energy efficiency, improved home security, increased home value, low maintenance requirements, lower homeowners insurance costs, and eligibility for rebates.
While a homeowner may be able to install interior storm windows themselves, they’ll likely want to hire a professional to install exterior storm windows due to the complexity of the project.
For homeowners who live in areas with extreme weather, like heavy snow, hurricanes, or high winds, storm windows can offer added protection against the elements while increasing energy efficiency and reducing noise from outside. Storm windows come in a range of options, such as tempered glass for higher impact resistance and low-emissivity (low-e) coating for better energy efficiency, and when added to a home they can even increase the home’s value. According to HomeAdvisor and Angi, storm windows cost between $3,262 and $17,267, with a national average of $10,081. For homes that see heavy storm activity, installing storm windows as part of storm door installation cost may be the right choice for making a home more storm-resistant.
Storm windows are typically installed over single-pane windows to add protection. The final price of storm windows depends on many factors, including the window size and style, window material, type of glass and number of tracks, and number of windows needed. There are also opportunities for tax credits, reduced insurance costs, and possible rebates from utility companies for storm window installation.
Factors in Calculating Storm Windows Cost
Photo: istockphoto.com
All storm windows are intended to protect a home against high winds, inclement weather, and flying debris, but not all storm windows are alike. This makes it important for homeowners to consider a lot of different factors when estimating the total cost of installing storm windows. Considering options like window size, style, pane type, and brand among others can help homeowners land on the most accurate cost estimate.
Window Size
On average, storm windows cost around $55 per square foot, including installation. While this isn’t always the case, it’s a good rule of thumb for homeowners to follow when doing the preliminary planning and budgeting. Larger storm windows will likely cost less than smaller storm windows, but materials also play a role, so a smaller wood storm window may actually cost more than a larger aluminum storm window.
Window Style
There are a few different storm window styles, and the differences affect the overall cost of storm windows and installation. Basic fixed storm windows can cost as little as $100 per window, while customized architectural storm window prices can soar as high as $2,100 per window.
Window Style | Average Cost per Window (Materials Only) |
Architectural | $350 to $2,100 |
Double-hung | $450 to $1,700 |
Fixed | $100 to $1,600 |
Single-hung | $300 to $1,500 |
Sliding | $550 to $1,400 |
Architectural storm windows typically match the aesthetic of the home and can deviate from the basic look of a traditional window. Architectural hurricane windows are made to fit the unique size and shape of original windows and cost between $350 and $2,100 per window.
Double-hung storm windows have two operable sashes, the top and bottom, which move independently of each other, creating the opportunity for more airflow than other styles. The cost for a double-hung storm window ranges from $450 to $1,700.
Fixed storm windows are inoperable with no moving parts, which makes them the cheapest option at $100 to $1,600 per window.
Single-hung storm windows have a lower sash that is operable and can slide up and down to control the flow of air throughout the home. They cost between $300 and $1,500 per window.
Sliding storm windows slide horizontally in their frame and can help control air flow throughout the home. At $500 per window, this style starts at a higher price than other styles and can run as high as $1,400.
Window Brand
The window brand can have a big impact on the final cost of installing storm windows. Prices range from $500 to $1,630 for a single window, so shopping around and doing research can help homeowners stick to their budget. Homeowners can also consider seeing the selection of storm windows at the best home improvement stores, such as The Home Depot. The average installation costs for a single window and for whole-house installation are listed below by brand.
WIndow Brand | Average Cost for a Single Window (Including Installation) | Average Cost for a Whole House (Including Installation) |
$500 | $4,000 | |
$1,185 | $9,480 | |
$800 | $6,400 | |
$1,400 | $11,200 | |
$1,630 | $12,040 |
Number of Windows
To determine the entire cost of the project, homeowners will want to take the cost of a single window and multiply it by the number of windows that need to be installed. For instance, if the storm or hurricane windows cost $500 each to install and there are 10 windows, the total will be around $5,000. The total cost of storm window installation accounts for the total number of windows plus labor and deviations in size and shape, so simple multiplication may not yield the exact total cost in the event that some windows take longer to install or are located in harder-to-reach places.
Frame Material
Storm windows come in a few different materials, typically aluminum, vinyl, or wood. Each has a different price range, which is explored in a section below. What follows is an explanation of each type of window frame.
Aluminum storm windows have the lowest cost range, but they are less energy efficient than other options due to their low insulation. They also tend to be the least attractive option.
Vinyl storm windows are a popular option, as they are well insulated and don’t require a lot of maintenance. They also come in a range of colors to match a home’s aesthetics.
Wood storm windows are the most expensive option but offer a high-end look and feel. They are also the most energy-efficient option, as they have the most insulation. However, they do require some maintenance to keep the wood in good condition.
Pane Type
There are a few different types of window panes that can come with storm windows, each with its own advantages. Choosing one depends on the needs of each specific home and the area it’s in. Window glass replacement can cost between $100 and $400 if the windows are already installed and just need new glass.
Standard glass is the most common option for standard storm windows. Glass is typically between ? inch and 1? inch thick. This glass is more easily broken than other types, so it isn’t ideal for areas that get frequent strong storms. Standard glass storm windows cost from $100 to $300 per window.
Impact storm windows use an exterior pane of tempered glass and an interior pane of laminated glass with a protective interlayer of either polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or SentryGlas (SGP), which are types of interlayers used in the construction of laminated glass. Often referred to as hurricane windows, these windows hold up better against impact from flying debris and high winds, but this level of protection will also cost more than standard glass storm windows. Windows with laminated glass or tempered glass can be more expensive than storm windows with standard glass, costing between $150 and $400 apiece.
Storm window glass can also include a low-emissivity, or low-e, coating. Low-e storm windows have a thin layer of metal or metal oxide coating to help to improve energy efficiency by minimizing the ability of ultraviolet and infrared light to come through the window while still allowing visible light to come in. Windows with a low-e coating cost between $125 and $400 each.
Track Style
Track styles dictate the way the storm window moves and which panes are operable. A fixed-track storm window prevents the panes from moving. Two-track and triple-track storm windows allow panes to open and close, giving homeowners more control over airflow. And two-track sliding storm windows offer the most control over the operation of the window.
Track Style | Average Cost |
Fixed-track | $100 to $300 |
Sliding two-track | $150 to $400 |
Triple-track | $150 to $400 |
Two-track | $100 to $350 |
Fixed-track storm windows feature an inoperable window that doesn’t open. These are one of the cheapest options, running between $100 and $300.
Two-track storm windows include a screen and two panes of glass. The exterior pane of glass and screen don’t move, while the inside pane of glass can slide up and down to allow air flow. This type of track costs $100 to $350.
Triple-track storm windows cost between $150 and $400 each and have a screen and two panes of glass that are both operable.
Two-track sliding storm windows slide horizontally on two tracks and cost between $150 and $400 each.
Labor
Homeowners will want to take labor costs into account when calculating the total cost of storm window installation. Labor typically costs between $80 and $400 per window, depending on the size and type of window and the difficulty of installation. Contractors may also charge an hourly rate between $30 and $65, so for a 2-hour window installation, labor can cost from $60 to $130.
Installation Location
Storm windows can be installed on the exterior or in the interior of the window. Exterior storm windows cost about $55 per square foot to install and are more complicated to install than interior storm windows, which cost about $24 per square foot. Interior storm windows are attached to the inside of the existing window. Exterior window installation requires more installation experience and may change the outer appearance of the windows, but they may also offer more protection.
Additional Costs and Considerations
Additional costs and considerations that affect the total cost of storm windows include whether the windows are new or replacing the existing windows and whether they are prefabricated or custom. Their level of energy efficiency, any permits needed, and any add-ons for extra protection will also affect the final storm window installation cost.
New vs. Replacement
New windows can cost substantially more than replacement windows cost, primarily because a new opening will need to be created; this can cost $1,000 to $5,000 to account for cutting into the wall, adding framing, installing drywall, and repairing the exterior siding.
Replacing existing double-pane or single-pane windows with double-pane storm windows costs an average of $6,510, and removing the old windows can add about $50 per window to the cost. If the home already has storm windows but they’re cracked or damaged, replacing the window glass can cost between $180 and $406 per window and can result in significant savings over installing new windows or fully replacing the old ones.
Prefabricated vs. Custom
Prefabricated windows come in standard options for sizes that fit most windows and cost between $100 and $400 per window, plus installation costs. Customization options for storm windows include size, style, and type of glass among other factors and typically cost more than prefabricated windows to account for the additional labor and materials it takes to build them. Custom windows can cost as little as $150 each for smaller windows and up to $1,000 each for larger windows with more elaborate designs. Accounting for added time and materials to create the customized look can triple the cost in some cases.
Windows vs. Shutters vs. Window Film
In some cases, hurricane shutters or window film may be a better choice than storm windows, or they can be used in conjunction with storm windows to further increase the level of protection for the home. Hurricane shutters can be made from plywood, fabric, clear polycarbonate, or metal. They are installed on the exterior of the home and can be closed in the event of a storm or hurricane. Average prices for whole-home installation are between $1,499 and $5,902.
Hurricane window film is a low-cost option to increase window protection during bad weather without going all in on storm windows. This film won’t make the windows impact-resistant, but it will help to prevent the glass from shattering and scattering if it sustains an impact. One 75-square-foot roll can cover about ten 24-inch by 36-inch windows and costs about $350. This is an easier DIY option than installing actual storm windows, but if a professional does the job, the homeowner will need to factor in labor costs.
Permits
Permit requirements depend on the laws of individual states, counties, and cities, but homeowners will likely have to pay a fee to secure a building permit that allows them to alter the home by adding storm windows. Permit costs range from $50 to $200, and homeowners will want to factor them into the overall budget. It’s also important for the homeowner to apply for the permit early or make sure the window installation company will take care of it so it doesn’t delay the start of the project.
Tax Credits
Installing storm windows can help increase the energy efficiency of a home and as a result can help homeowners qualify for tax credits, namely the Energy Star Windows & Skylights Tax Credit. Exterior windows need to meet Energy Star Most Efficient criteria in order to qualify, and homeowners can receive a tax credit for 30 percent of the project cost up to a maximum of $600.
Photo: istockphoto.com
Types of Storm Windows
There are three common types of storm windows—aluminum, vinyl, and wood—and the type can affect the overall cost. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the cost ranges from as low as $100 per window to $400 or more. More information about each type of storm window and their costs can be found below.
Frame Material | Average Cost per Window (Materials Only) |
Aluminum | $100 to $275 |
Vinyl | $125 to $300 |
Wood | $175 to $400 |
Aluminum
Aluminum is a common option for storm windows because it is affordable and rust-resistant. This material is enamel-coated for increased durability. Aluminum storm windows don’t protect against heat transfer as well as windows made from other materials, so they don’t increase energy efficiency as much as vinyl or wood, but pairing them with low-e glass can increase their energy efficiency. Aluminum storm window cost ranges from $100 to $275 per window, and they can last up to 45 years with proper maintenance.
Vinyl
Vinyl storm windows are better for insulation than aluminum windows and are also relatively low maintenance, but they can twist or buckle over time. As with aluminum, they offer a range of color options. They cost between $125 and $300 per window, with the price depending on the style and size.
Wood
Wood storm windows are favored on older homes where retaining the original look is important, but they also require maintenance to keep them in good condition. This is the most expensive storm window material, with windows ranging in cost from $175 to $400 apiece, but wood is a better insulator and so it can help reduce energy costs. Wood storm windows do require more maintenance than other materials and will need to be stripped, sanded, and repainted or stained to maintain their appearance.
Benefits of Installing Storm Windows
Storm windows have obvious benefits in areas with high instances of extreme weather and strong winds, but they offer benefits for all houses regardless of weather conditions in terms of noise reduction, increased energy efficiency, and reduced insurance costs, among others. Before homeowners decide on storm windows, it’s important to weigh the benefits against the upfront cost to make the best decision for the home.
Weather and Storm Protection
The most obvious benefit of storm windows is their weather and storm protection. For homes in areas that see strong storms, storm windows offer protection against winds and are a common option for added protection. Installing a storm door along with storm windows can give homeowners even more protection against harsh weather conditions.
Noise Reduction
In addition to protecting a home from storms, high winds, and flying debris—which won’t happen every day—storm windows also offer noise reduction from outside noises on a daily basis. Adding extra layers of glass to a window can help reduce noise from outside and make the inside environment more comfortable and enjoyable.
Increased Energy Efficiency
Storm windows are tightly sealed to the window frame and add additional panes of glass that can help improve energy efficiency and reduce energy bills. Energy Star–certified storm windows are eligible for tax credits that can help reduce their overall cost, and they are rated for different locations and climates, making it easier for homeowners to choose the windows that will result in lower energy costs. Attachment Energy Rating Council–rated products can also offer energy savings.
Improved Home Security
Adding another layer of protection against storms can also improve home security, because it’s another layer that will make windows harder to break in the event of an attempted home invasion. Storm windows that include more impact-resistant glass, such as tempered or laminated, can make it more difficult to break and therefore more difficult to break into a home.
Increased Home Value
Installing storm windows can increase the home’s value in the long run in addition to protecting the home from storms, increasing energy efficiency, and improving home security. Storm windows can offer around an 80 percent return on investment (ROI), making them a good investment for the home, especially when considered along with the other benefits.
Easy Maintenance
While wood storm windows do require frequent maintenance, vinyl and aluminum windows are easy, low-maintenance storm window options that offer increased storm protection and home security along with noise reduction.
Reduced Insurance Costs
Some insurance companies may offer reduced rates for homes that include storm windows. Because storm windows protect against damage from high winds and extreme weather conditions, damage that the insurance company may have to cover, it makes sense that they would incentivize adding measures of protection to the home. Homeowners will want to check with their insurance company before installing windows to see if there are any requirements to qualify for reduced rates.
Storm Window Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Installing interior storm windows or window film can be done by a homeowner relatively easily, which can save on installation costs. Exterior storm window installation, on the other hand, requires specialized knowledge to ensure that they are properly positioned, secured, and sealed.
Storm window installation takes about 2 hours per window, so this can be a big job for a large house with lots of windows. Window installers have training and experience and can help preserve the original windows while installing the storm windows. Ensuring that windows are installed and sealed correctly can help to improve energy efficiency. Doing a DIY storm window installation is possible if the homeowner has a good working knowledge of what it takes to install storm windows, although homeowners are advised to keep in mind that most warranties will be voided if the work is not done by a professional.
Getting quotes from multiple window installation companies can help keep the project within a budget and make sure the company is a good fit for the homeowner and their needs. Companies may offer warranties on installation, which makes it easier to get them replaced if the window fails.
How to Save Money on Storm Windows Cost
Customized storm windows can cost a substantial amount of money to purchase and install, but it’s possible to get the benefits of storm windows without breaking the bank. The following are some helpful money-saving tips.
Focus on insulation. To save on energy costs, choose the best storm windows for added insulation.
Opt for alternatives. Install hurricane shutters or window film over existing windows for added protection at a lower cost.
Maximize weather protection. Install weatherstripping to better insulate the existing window or new storm windows.
Shop around. Get quotes from multiple companies to compare costs.
Look into discounts. Check to see if your insurance offers discounts or lower premiums for storm window installation.
Take advantage of tax credits. Tax benefits are offered for increasing the energy efficiency of the home, including the Windows & Skylights Tax Credit.
Skip the customization. Go with prefabricated rather than custom options if possible.
Photo: istockphoto.com
Questions to Ask About Storm Window Installation
Storm window installation can be a big job regardless of whether a homeowner has a small house or large house. Asking the right questions can help the homeowner ensure they understand and feel comfortable with the installation professional.
Do you come to my house for a consultation before giving me a quote?
Do you charge a fee for a consultation and/or quote?
How long will it take to install the windows?
Is there any prep work I need to do before you arrive?
Do you handle the trim work?
How will my home be protected during installation?
Who applies for permits, and is the cost included in the quote, or will I need to pay for the permits separately?
Where will debris be stored during installation, and is the removal cost included in the quote?
Do I need to be home during the installation?
FAQs
In addition to the questions homeowners can ask the installation professionals, they probably have questions of their own. Below are some additional frequently asked questions about storm windows and installation.
Q. What is the average cost for an aluminum storm window?
Aluminum storm windows cost an average of $100 to $275 per window. The actual cost depends on the size and shape of the window and any customizations, such as a change in the frame color.
Q. Are storm windows cheaper than regular windows?
The cost to install double-pane windows is between $150 and $6,900, so the cheaper option really depends on individual circumstances, such as the size and shape of the windows, number of windows, and type of glass.
Q. Are storm windows worth it?
If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions like heavy snow or hurricanes, storm windows can definitely be worth it. They not only protect windows from shattering in the event of an impact or during high winds, but they also add insulation, keeping warm air inside in the winter and outside in the summer. This can result in improved energy efficiency and reduced utility bills.
Q. What is the average size of storm windows?
Storm windows come in a variety of sizes to fit both standard and custom windows. They typically range between 3 feet and 6? feet high and 3? feet and 1? feet wide, but they can be larger or smaller depending on the home’s needs.
Q. How strong are storm windows?
Storm window strength is evaluated based on the design pressure (DP) and performance grade (PG) ratings. Storm windows that have a DP rating of around 60 can withstand Category 5 hurricane winds, which can exceed 157 mph.
Q. How long do aluminum storm windows last?
Aluminum storm windows are low maintenance and durable and can last up to 45 years when properly installed and cared for.
Q. How long does it take to install storm windows?
It takes about 2 hours per window to install storm windows, though the time varies depending on the individual window, the prep work that needs to be done, and the accessibility of the window.
Q. Are storm windows good for winter?
Storm windows are good for winter because they enhance insulation by adding another layer of glass. Windows with low-e coating can have even higher insulative properties as they reflect heat back into the house in the winter and act as a barrier to heat in the summer.
Q. Can a storm window be used alone?
A storm window shouldn’t be used as a replacement for a standard single-pane window. Storm windows are specifically designed to be installed on the interior or exterior of a single-pane window to enhance protection against storms.
Q. Are storm windows waterproof?
Storm windows are designed to allow water to drain from the windows back to the exterior of the home. As they are installed on the exterior of the existing windows, any water that passes by the storm window won’t be able to get through the interior window. This is why proper sealing is important to ensure water is directed to the drains, removing it from the window.
Q. Are storm windows breakable?
Even the strongest storm windows can break if they are hit hard enough. They are, however, impact-resistant, which means they won’t break upon regular force. Impact storm windows are rated for higher impacts than standard storm windows, with some being able to withstand 200-mph winds and direct strikes.
Q. Do storm windows stay on all year?
Storm windows can be removed or raised to allow air flow during fair weather. Interior storm windows are easier to remove than exterior windows, which is something to consider when choosing storm windows.
Q. Are storm windows hard to install?
Storm windows can be installed fairly easily by a window installation professional. Experienced DIYers will also likely be able to complete the project efficiently.
Q. Are storm windows better than double-pane windows?
Storm windows can be more effective at withstanding impacts and high winds than double-pane windows, but they are most effective over single-pane windows. If you already have double-pane windows, storm windows may not offer much in the way of added protection. If you’re worried about how your windows will stand up to a storm, you can add hurricane shutters or window film for a fraction of the cost of replacement windows.
Q. Are storm windows soundproof?
Storm windows are not soundproof, though they do offer some noise reduction as a result of the added pane or panes of glass.
Sources: Angi, HomeAdvisor (1 and 2), Fixr, Forbes, Lisbon Storm, Screen & Door,