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HOW TO MEASURE AND INSTALL

There are many ways of "sizing" storm windows to assure a proper fit. More often than not, however, you can simply measure the width and height of the entire exterior wall "pocket" (the opening in which the existing window is positioned), and then add 1-1/2" to the width and 1" to the height ... so that your storm window can overlap the opening by 3/4" on each side and 1" on top.

Once you have the correct size of storm window, place it on two saw horses and drill three holes (evenly spaced) along the top, left, and right sides of the aluminum frame. (Generally, you won't need to drill any holes across the bottom, since the base of the storm window will be supported by the existing windowsill.) Then nail a strip of woodapproximately 3/4" to 1" wide and 1/4" to 1/2" thickacross the windowsill. The base of the storm window should butt up against this stop and be flush with the window pocket.

Next, place a bead of caulking material completely around the frame of the storm window to provide a seal against the wood frame of the existing window. Then simply be sure both the old and new panes are clean, fasten the storm window in place with wood screws, and the job is done!

There are, of course, other ways to install "storms" . . . and you'll probably pick up a few advanced methods as you go along. The one absolute requirement—regardless of which hangin' technique you use—is to take accurate measure ments and to be sure your supplier knows just how you arrived at the dimensions that accompany your window orders.

TYPES OF STORM WINDOWS

A "single-hung" storm window has a lower screen portion in addition to its glass, and is used over existing windows which open from the bottom. The glass on the lower portion of the storm window can be lifted up- from inside the houseto allow fresh air to enter through the screen.

The "one-light" storm window is a solid pane of glass in an aluminum frame which doesn't open. These should only be installed over windows that will stay shut year round.

The "single-vent" storm window has one portion that slides horizontally and another section which is fixed. This window comes with a screen and can be ordered to open from either right to left or left to right. (Be sure the direction in which it slides matches that of the existing window! )

The "double-vent" window has a fixed center portion, while each of its ends is equipped with a sliding panel.

It's possible to transport three or four wellpadded windows to a job site in the bed of a pickup, but—when you start to deal with more panes than that—you must build an A-frame to protect the glass. Such a structure can be put together from scrap wood.

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