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Storm Window Disadvantages
Unfortunately, there are some definite storm window disadvantages that you should know and understand before you decide to purchase them. Check out our storm window advantages page to get a good pros and cons understanding.
More Maintenance
By inserting a storm window, you have much less access to the original window (especially if it is a single or double hung). You also have less access to the interior of the storm window for the purposes of cleaning and maintenance. This is espeically true with a storm/screen combinations. If the storm window is a tilt in, the job is easier but a fixed storm can definitely make the job a real bear.
Less Energy Efficiency
Inserting a storm window outside of a single glazed window will be much less energy efficient than a standard replacement window which will have a doulbe or even triple glaze. There will be some energy efficiency increase, but it will usually be pretty minimal. If the existing window is double glazed than adding the storm window will have a much greater affect, but certainly less than replacing the origial unit with a nice new vinyl replacement. In these cases, it will probably be the case that you won't want to sit in front of the window in either winter or summer due to the temperature in that small space. Of course, with a historic house, this may not be your top priority and you are used to the temperature shifts for the trade off of the beauty of the original windows.
Not Ideal For Resale Value
Most buyers want an energy efficient, low maintenance, turn key home and storm windows don't really provide that. So an argument can be made that adding storm windows hurts the resale value of a home. Of course, historic homes may be an entirely different story where preserving the stained glass or unique windows may be much more valuable to a potential buyer.
Potential Moisture Problems
Storm windows may trap moisture between the two panes and eventually lead to condensation problems.This is actually pretty common, especially when the inside window is not very airtight. In fact, storm windows shouldn't be completely airtight; they need to allow moisture to escape, instead of trapping the moisture between the two windows. Many installers simply caulk them shut and any moisture that does get through sits there and causes condensation problems. The storm should be opened a 1/4" to let them breathe.
They Can Be Ugly
Not everyone thinks that storm windows are ugly, but there are a fair share of homeowners and contractors who do. The cheap vinyl ones are not very super sturdy and can make the outside of the home look cheap. Aluminum storms are probably the way to go as they offer the strength and durability, along with a better aesthetic than vinyl. The bigger issue in terms of looks is how well they fit the existing size of the window. They are typically not custom made to size so getting a good fit can be tricky. In addition, if they are placed outside the existing window they may stick out a little.