Use Interior Storm Windows to Increase Heat Resistance The - TopicsExpress

Use Interior Storm Windows to Increase Heat Resistance The performance of a window can be largely attributed to the manner in which it allows air to infiltrate into the room. As the air moves in and out of the room, it carries with it heat. Therefore, storm windows can be used to reduce the amount of heat that is lost in the house or to maintain the optimum heat within the room. This is done by insulation. In the same manner in which we insulate the walls of our houses, windows can also be insulated to complete the process. Storm windows are made up of two or more layers of glass with an air space between them that serves as the perfect insulation against movement of air. It is different from the one glass pane window that we know of which does not provide any resistance to the movement of air. Interior storm windows are a way to trap the air inside the room and thus reduce heat loss by conductance. This insulation is further boosted by the fact that air is a very good insulator. There are many options for fitting storm windows on the inside of your room. They include the heat-shrink film, plastic films, and acrylic seals. Heat-shrink Filming The cheapest way to make an interior storm window is to use the heat-shrink film. It can also be done very quickly thus suitable for those occasions when time is very limited. Heat shrink filming also does not require a lot of expertise to fit. One only needs the double sided tape and a razor to apply it from the inside of the window. The film is then shrunk onto the glass pane or window frame with simple equipment like a hair dryer. Heat shrink films are easily bought in local hardware stores. Interior windows made from heat shrink films are low cost and provide an effective way to trap air inside the room. The only problem is that the film is fragile and is easily torn out from the window. The tape used to fasten the film on the window can tear off paint when being removed. Plastic Filming In this design, the plastic film is permanently affixed to the window using a spine and a channel. Many homeowners concur that plastic film is better for windows because it lasts longer. They also argue that it is re-usable. Unfortunately, the plastic filming obstructs view to the outside because it is not clear. Acrylic Seals The best looking interior storm widows is the one made by acrylic seals. This is where acrylic sheets are used to provide insulation on the widow. The sheets are attached to the glass panes as well as the window frame. Acrylic seals usually enhance the aesthetic look of the room. Read more details about interior storm windows and interior storm windows.