Performance of Storm Windows vs Regular Windows

The performance of storm windows vs regular windows can depend on what windows you have to start out with. In this blog we’ll cover typical replacement windows and storm windows, what insulation you can expect from each and what noise abatement performance to expect out of each category.

Storm Windows

Storm windows are a second window pane added to the outside or inside of your already existing window. Exterior storm windows attach to the outside of your window frame and interior storm windows to the inside of your window frame.

Replacement Windows

Replacement windows replace your already existing windows – either by installing a new type of window style or technology, or because the seal on the old window has failed.

close up of one of indow window insert options

Replacement Window Options

The most popular replacement windows are double hung and casement, wood frame, vinyl frame, or fiberglass frame. Casement style windows are more airtight than double hung, so they will provide more insulation and defense against drafts than double hung. Double or triple glazing adds an extra pane of glass with air or gas between them. This provides better insulation and sound reduction (especially triple glazing), but can be very expensive. Low-E coating reflects heat to improve efficiency. Read the consumer report on replacement windows.

“Star-qualified windows can lower your energy bill by an average of 12 percent. That’s only $27 to $111 a year for a 2,000-square-foot single-story home with storm windows or double-pane windows, $126 to $465 if your home has just single-pane windows, according to Energy Star.” claims the replacement window consumer report. Interior storm windows can save an average of 20% on energy bills according to the third party studies.

indow storm windows vs regular windows

Storm Window Options

Adding an interior storm window to a double-pane window can reduce outside noise up to 50% (10-12 dBA). Adding an interior storm window to a single-pane window can reduce noise up to 70% (18.9 dBA). Replacement windows reduce outside noise up to 20%. This data is based on third party studies performed with Indow window inserts. Because the insert is made of acrylic, it blocks sound better than standard window glass. A near airtight seal is created between the insert and the glass, which also helps Indow window inserts reduce outside noise.

Old windows receiving storm windows might need some restoration before this type of performance can be expected. Meanwhile, replacement windows will bring the performance described as soon as they are installed. Storm windows can provide different needs—acoustic or UV protection—in just one room or window that fits that space’s needs.

Analyze your space to determine your needs. Is noise an issue for your? Then storm windows are probably the way to go. You can read our full comparison of storm windows vs replacement windows to get a better idea.

person walking by restored window

How to Get Storm Windows

All inserts are backed by a Snug Fit Guarantee because of our laser measurement system. Here’s how we do it:

We send you a laser measure kit with a fun laser measure tool (pew pew). It works just like a flashlight—with the press of a button, you get the dimensions. Enter the measurements displayed on the tool into our online portal. It checks for accuracy.

Our fit experts check the measurements for accuracy (again). If everything looks good, dimensions are on their way to becoming your custom insert. It’s that easy.

We developed the tool and software (with error detecting algorithm) because it’s the best way we know how to seal windows for winter.

Trusted Since 2010

Indow has insulated more than 23,000 buildings - helping reduce carbon emissions by nearly 200,000 tons - and creating comfort across the US & Canada!

Reviews

Excellent

4.49 Average Rating

1533 Reviews

Reviews.io logo

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    I love my Indow windows. I was skeptical that anything would really block out noise but these really work and it’s made my life more enjoyable since I can sleep in peace. We live on a busy street so this investment was worth it. I would totally recommend them

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    A+++++++++

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    The noise reductiion after installing the Indow Accoustic Inserts is remarkable. Whereas before we would be woken up by the start of commuter traffic at 6 AM, we now sleep soundly intil WE are ready to wake up. The ordering, measuring and installation instructions are very detailed, but if you follow them closely you will have a great finished product. The corners are a little tricky to get just right and it takes a little finagling to achieve the right look. They were packed and protected well enough that even FedEx didn't damage them. I would absolutely use them again.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    I bought these bedroom inserts primarily for sound reduction. My house is about a mile from a busy train track and several miles from an interstate highway with an exit close that has trucks braking. These inserts completely eliminated the interstate noise and the train rolling noise, and dropped the train whistle noise to very faint. No more waking up at night and counting trains. I measured carefully and the fit was perfect, and with the blinds open I can't even tell they are there. For info my jam depth allowed approximately 3" gap from the top window pane and 2-1/2" from the bottom and still allowed the use of an inside mounted 1" blind. Using the new compression blinds that install with no brackets allowed that much gap and maximizing the gap distance is important for sound reduction. I also installed jam stops specifically for the Indow insert to get it to the right place.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Our Indowindow inserts arrived thoughtfully packed and quickly shipped. They were easy to install and fit after using the pre-supplied Lazer measurements tool from indow. The fit was perfect and we immediately noticed a huge change in noise levels for the better. I added some brightly colored cord to the d rings incase of fire removal and escape through the window is needed. We are very satisfied with our purchase and we highly recommend Indowindow inserts for noise issues.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    We moved into a home right next to a busy highway. The window inserts have allowed us to sleep without wearing earplugs. The difference is dramatic. Please note that the inserts don't reduce noise to 0; this is especially evident with large rock hauling trucks. Even though we still hear noise from these (VERY) loud sources, Indow Window inserts have been able to dramatically reduce the noise to the point of allowing us a normal existence in our home. Thanks Indow!

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    These windows are great! They have improved the quality of our home with reduced thermal loss and reduced noise level! The temperature today is 93° outside, our split system is set at 73° and the inside house temperature is 74°! Before the install of these windows the inside temperature with these conditions would have been 76°! Last night I noticed an ambulance going by. Normally the first thing I recognize is the noise, but last night I didn't realize it was an ambulance until I saw the flashing light! Hannah did a wonderful job coordinating the measurements and the sale! I would recommend these windows to anyone!

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Excellent product, support, and very clear instructions. We look forward to installing these on all our windows.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    I ordered the "acoustic grade inserts" for my bedroom to reduce road noise. They work exactly as advertised. Are they soundproofing? NO. Do they reduce noise to acceptable levels? YES. Compared to other solutions on the market (replacement windows, glass inserts etc) this is much more affordable. However, if you are looking for actual soundproofing, you need to spend more money and get something else. As a bonus, the inserts are tight fitting and have reduced drafts.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    We have single pane historic windows in our house in Newport RI. I was looking for a great solution to both temperature and noise. I decided to try the acoustic indow product.

    I am thrilled with the process and the product. James from Indow was super helpful in answering questions. The laser measuring kit was easy to use and gave you confidence in your own measuring ability as it checks your work. The 4 indow products i ordered came well packaged and were easy to put in.

    Finally, the indow inserts look great and work great. We can no longer hear every conversation outside and the birds don't wake us up every morning. My wife didn't even know they were there. They blend in and can't see them unless you look.

    I highly recommend these. More cost effective than custom storm windows, they look better and you can easily install or remove them as you need.

    Fantastic product and service.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    There work perfectly and I can't even tell they are there. My windows look the same but NO noise!!!

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Excellent servie and support from start to finish!

    So satisfied with my first purchase, I got more indows!

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    We installed the windows in our four seasons room We got some 85 degree days recently and the area stayed amazingly cool usually we would have the AC on it was not needed !!!

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Indow has established the complete breadth of custom service, from initial enquiry to being very responsive to "after-sales" questions. Ours was and out-of-the ordinary project involving casement windows in a solarium and the end result turned out quite perfectly. Access to information online, instructions arriving with the delivered windows, and answers by phone insured we "enthusiastic amateurs" completed the job to satisfaction.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    I am very pleased with my Indow window inserts. I have a very old house and am near a busy road. I wanted to reduce the noise. I've just installed them and find a considerable reduction in traffic noise. They definitely were worth the cost. The measuring process is quite detailed but easy to follow and my inserts fit perfectly in crooked, 265 year old openings. The company representative Hannah Hendrickson

    was very professional, knowledgeable, and courteous. I highly recommend the Indow

    company.