I'm in the process of customizing storm windows for my converted century-old church. I have 8 windows that are 9.5ft tall and 34in wide, which are designed to open but currently don't. I'm primarily focused on a few key benefits: filtering UV light to prevent fading of my belongings, reducing condensation since it's damaging the wood around the panes, minimizing noise from outside, and improving energy efficiency a bit. I've received a quote for both types of acrylic storm windows – with and without UV filtering. Given my situation, I'm torn on whether to install the storm windows on the inside or outside, with my main worry being damage to the windows if condensation isn't fixed. While appearance isn't a major concern, I also need to decide if UV filtering is worth the additional 50% cost or if I should just apply a UV film later. Any thoughts would really help!
1 Answer
If you're looking to cut down on condensation, I'd recommend going for exterior storm windows. They create a barrier that keeps the warm air away from the cold outside air, which should help protect your wood frames. However, keep in mind that single-pane storm windows don’t do much for sound insulation, so you may want to consider double-pane options if noise is a big issue. I’m also a bit skeptical about acrylic since it can be prone to cracking and discoloration over time.
Thanks for that insight! Sounds like I need to weigh the pros and cons of materials. Any idea if UV filtering glass is better or worse in price compared to acrylic?