Types of Storm Windows: Which Is Right for Your Home?

Storm windows come in various configurations, each with distinct advantages. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, choosing the right type depends on your priorities, budget, and existing windows.

Exterior Storm Windows

According to DOE, exterior storms mount on the outside of primary windows:

Triple-Track (Combination) Storms

How they work: Two glass panels and one screen panel slide in three tracks

Advantages:

• Year-round installation (no seasonal changes)
• Screens included for ventilation
• Most common modern option
• Moderate cost

Disadvantages:

• More visible than interior options
• Tracks can accumulate debris
• Appearance may not suit all homes

Cost: $100-250 per window

Two-Track Storms

How they work: One glass panel and one screen slide in two tracks

Advantages:

• Simpler mechanism
• Slightly less expensive
• Adequate for moderate climates

Disadvantages:

• Less insulation than triple-track
• Limited configurations

Fixed Storms (Seasonal)

How they work: Single panel installed seasonally

Advantages:

• Maximum insulation (no moving parts)
• Can be custom fit
• Traditional appearance

Disadvantages:

• Requires seasonal installation/removal
• No ventilation when installed
• Storage needed

Interior Storm Windows

According to NPS, interior storms mount inside the primary window:

Magnetic Mount

How they work: Acrylic or glass panels held by magnetic strips

Advantages:

• Invisible from exterior
• Easy to remove
• DIY installation
• Work with any window type

Disadvantages:

• Not as airtight as exterior
• Must be removed for ventilation
• Can have moisture issues if not vented

Cost: $50-150 per window

Track-Mounted Interior

How they work: Panels slide or hinge in permanently installed tracks

Advantages:

• More permanent than magnetic
• Can be designed for easy operation
• Very clean interior appearance

Disadvantages:

• More expensive than magnetic
• Track installation required

Compression-Fit

How they work: Panels press-fit into window opening

Advantages:

• No installation hardware
• Quick to install/remove
• Good seal

Disadvantages:

• Must be sized precisely
• Can be difficult to operate

Low-E Storm Windows

According to DOE, modern storm windows can include Low-E coatings:

• Adds efficiency benefit similar to Low-E primary windows
• 15-25% more expensive than clear
• Best value upgrade for storm window investment

Choosing Based on Priorities

| Priority | Recommended Type |
|----------|------------------|
| Maximum efficiency | Fixed exterior or Low-E triple-track |
| Ease of use | Triple-track exterior |
| Historic appearance | Interior magnetic or custom wood |
| Budget | Basic interior panels |
| Rental situations | Interior magnetic (removable) |

The Bottom Line

According to DOE, any storm window provides meaningful benefit—the best one is the type you'll actually use. Triple-track exterior storms offer the best combination of efficiency, convenience, and cost for most homeowners.

*For complete storm window guidance, see: [Storm Windows and Doors](/guides/storm-windows-doors)*