How Much Does It Cost to Install Storm Windows by Square Foot?
It costs an average of $55 per square foot to install storm windows, but several factors affect the price, such as the window's material. For instance, aluminum storm windows typically cost the least at around $160, on average, while wood storm windows often cost the most, averaging about $300.
Generally, the bigger the storm window, the more it will cost. And if you opt for a custom size rather than a standard size, it can further drive up costs. Here’s what to expect:
| Size | Cost |
|---|---|
| 24 by 30 inches | $110 |
| 32 by 36 inches | $135 |
| 48 by 44 inches | $170 |
| 52 by 44 inches | $190 |
| 52 by 60 inches | $225 |
| 60 by 60 inches | $255 |
| 60 by 96 inches | $325 |
Exterior vs. Interior Storm Window Cost
Most storm windows are exterior storm windows, but you can potentially save some money by installing interior storm windows instead. Interior storm windows cost around $24 per square foot, compared to exterior storm windows, which cost $55 per square foot.
Interior storm windows are a good option for people who don't want to change their window's appearance. These interior window panes attach to your existing window through an inner frame, leaving your exterior window panes in place. However, interior storm windows only protect the inside of your home, leaving your windows more vulnerable to storm damage than if you installed exterior storm windows.
Storm Window Installation Cost of Labor
The cost to install storm windows includes the price of the windows and labor costs. Storm window prices range from $90 to $400 per window, depending on factors like type, material, and size. Most window contractors charge $30 to $65 per hour, and it typically takes about two hours to install a window, so the more windows you need installed, the more it will cost.
Storm Window Installation by Material
Storm windows are primarily made with one of three materials: Wood, vinyl, or aluminum. The material you choose will affect your window's cost.
Aluminum Storm Windows
Aluminum storm windows are generally the most inexpensive windows, ranging from $90 to $275 per window. However, they don't offer as much insulation as their vinyl and wood counterparts.
Vinyl Storm Windows
Vinyl storm windows typically cost $100 to $300 per window. These windows are relatively low-maintenance, and they come in a wide variety of colors, making it easy to find a match for your home's aesthetic.
Wood Storm Windows
Wood storm windows are the most expensive, ranging from $175 to $400 each, but they offer better insulation than vinyl and aluminum storm windows. Many people also prefer the look of wood windows over alternatives.
How Much Do Storm Window Upgrades Cost?
You can upgrade your storm windows with various features and enhancements to increase their support and prolong their lifespan.
Stabilizer Bars
Stabilizer bars provide additional structural strength and help prolong the lifespan of your windows. These supportive bars usually cost around $20 to $40 per bar.
Triple-Track Windows
Triple-track storm windows offer an additional track for a two-part removable screen. Opting for a triple-track window will add $30 to $50 to the window cost.
Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping seals the edges around your windows and doors, providing added insulation. Weatherstripping an entire home costs an average of $200.
Storm Window Alternative Costs
Storm windows are only one of several methods that you can use to protect your home during extreme weather. Hurricane window film and hurricane shutters offer relatively inexpensive storm protection compared to storm windows, but they come with several drawbacks.
Storm Windows vs. Hurricane Window Film
If storm windows fall outside of your budget, you can use hurricane window film to add some protection to your windows. The film helps prevent your windows from shattering in the event of high winds, but it's not impact resistant like storm windows, so it can leave your windows more vulnerable to storm projectiles and debris.
Hurricane window film costs around $350 per 75-square-foot roll. This amount can cover up to 10 windows that span 24 by 36 inches. You can often install window film yourself, but if you hire a pro to install it, expect to pay around $30 to $65 per hour. Most window film installation projects take one to two hours.
Storm Windows vs. Hurricane Shutters
Hurricane shutters are similar to storm windows in terms of the level of protection they provide, but unlike storm windows, they don't provide added insulation or reduce outside noise levels. They also require you to be there to close them in the event of a storm. Therefore, if you travel a lot, hurricane shutters might not be your best option.
Since installing hurricane shutters can be dangerous, we recommend hiring a professional to install them. Depending on factors like type and size, hurricane shutters range from $1,950 to $5,800 to install, with the average cost amounting to $3,850.
Storm Windows vs. Impact Windows
During your research on storm windows, you may have encountered the terms impact windows and hurricane windows. So, what’s the difference? There really is none. Storm windows, impact windows, and hurricane windows are used interchangeably to describe strong windows that can withstand high winds and heavy impact.
DIY Storm Window Installation vs. Hiring a Pro
Most homeowners can do a DIY interior storm windows installation, or add hurricane window film themselves with little trouble. Interior storm windows typically slide right into place from the inside of your home, so they're fairly easy to install. You can also apply hurricane window film from the inside, which generally only involves laying the film over your window, making for another relatively easy installation.
However, when it comes to exterior storm windows, we recommend hiring a pro to do it since it's a potentially dangerous job that requires a high level of expertise to ensure windows are precisely sized, sealed, and secured. Most window installers also offer warranties on their workmanship for up to 10 years.
