Inclement weather can wreak havoc on your home. Wind, rain, and even flying debris can lead to damage and the need for costly repairs. Making sure your home is as protected as possible from storm damage is key, especially if you live in a storm prone area. There are a lot of ways to protect your home from damage including adding storm protection windows. Storm protection windows, or storm windows, offer added protection from the elements. If you are considering adding these windows to your home, here are three things you should know.

How They Work

The first thing that you should know about storm windows is how they work. Storm protection windows are additional windows that can be installed on top of your home's existing windows. These windows are installed either on the exterior of your home or the interior and add an additional layer of protection. There are a variety of styles to choose from when it comes to storm windows and it's easy to find a style that works with your home. Storm window frames are available in materials such as vinyl, aluminum, and even wood. 

Energy Efficiency

Another thing to know about storm windows is that having them installed is a great way to increase your home's energy efficiency. In fact, storm windows offer many of the same energy efficiency benefits of replacing your home's windows at a fraction of the cost. Storm windows offer greater insulation and can reduce your heating and cooling bills. Storm windows with low-e coatings in particular can greatly increase your home's energy efficiency. Adding low-e storm windows to your home can reduce your energy bills by anywhere from 12 to 33 percent. If you want to increase your home's energy efficiency, storm windows can be a great option.

The Cost

Cost is another factor to consider when it comes to storm protection windows. In the event of inclement weather these windows may save you money by preventing damage to the home. They can also lead to significant savings over time due to their energy efficiency. While storm windows are less expensive than replacement windows and can save you money, they can still be fairly costly. On average the cost of storm windows ranges from $1,526 to $7,566. However, many homeowners find these windows to be a good investment.

If you are considering installing storm windows, there are a few things that you should be aware of. First you should know how they work and whether interior or exterior storm windows are right for your home. There are a variety of style options to choose from. Storm windows are also a great way to increase your home's energy efficiency and more affordable than most replacement windows. Costs can vary, however, on average most homeowners spend a few thousand dollars.