I own a 100 year old home with double-hung, single-pane windows that are in very good shape. Unfortuantely, the storm windows are a disaster. I wish to have someone replace the storm windows. I just contacted the Borg to get a quote to give me some idea of the pricing.
Can you give me some guidance on buying new storm windows?
Can you recommend any brands?
Are double-hung, double-pane, storm-windows available?
Are there any installation details I should insist on? (i.e. a bead of caulk under the storms?)
The borgs are the last place I'd buy them, but that is your choice. I used to do this as a sideline business many years ago. Check with neighbors to see who they used, but there are plenty of reputable small businesses that can do a good job at reasonable cost.
Most windows are triple track storms. That means there is an upper storm panel, a lower storm panel, and a screen for the lower portion that will store in the raised position. I've not kept up with the latest brands, but I do know Harvey is one of the better ones.
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Are you a handy DIY kind of guy? Not afraid to work standing on a ladder? You can install a storm in about 10 minutes once you know how. You may also want to paint the window frames before putting in the new storms. It is easiest to do that way.
Measure the opening where the window will fit. Order the next size smaller so you don't have to trim.
Prep the window. You install them with the glass in place to keep them square. I used a Whitney punch to make three or four holes on a side, two on top, two vent holes at the bottom. Run a beat of caulk on the stop where the window mounts. Do the two sides and top. Climb the ladder with the window in front of you and just put it in place. Once you get one screw in, the window won't fall while you put in the rest. A small, light, cordless drill is good for that, a 9.6V or 12V will do.
Do NOT step back to admire you work until you get down from the ladder.
Only type to get is a U type storm window with a spreader bar like the one from Harvey Industries called the Tru Channel window. There may be other companies that make a U channel but Harvey is the one I use because it is simply the best there is. Solid and stays square. These are not flimsy ones. Air infiltration is around 99% if I recall. I have been back to house I have done over 25 years ago and they are still in perfect working condition. Others will get loose and rattle and are drafty amd easily go out of square. These don't.
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