How to Make Inexpensive Storm Windows Using Plexiglas
- Measure the outside of the window. Add 2 inches to the overall dimensions. For example, if your window measures 24 by...
- Install a 1/4-inch dado blade on a table saw. Raise the blade to 3/8 inch from the tip of the highest blade to the...
- Turn on the saw and run four pieces of 1 1/2-by-2-by-26-inch poplar...
- Measure the Outside of the Window. Measure the outside of the window. ...
- Prepare the Table Saw to Cut the Dados. Install a 1/4-inch dado blade on a table saw. ...
- Cut the Dado Joint. ...
- Miter cut the Frame Pieces. ...
- Run a Bead of Silicone. ...
- Insert and Glue the Plexiglas. ...
- Clamp the Frame. ...
- Paint and Seal the Window Frame.
How to make storm windows from plexiglass?
The Drip Cap
- Storm windows are an important part of insulating your home against adverse weather and heat or cold.
- Measure your window frame (s).
- Cut your Plexiglas sheet to fit inside the wood frame, adding 1/4 inch on all sides so that the sheet fits perfectly in the routed groove of the frame.
How to build an interior storm window?
- 1×2″ lumber, in lengths long enough for the dimensions of your frame (measured with the method above). ...
- 1-2 sheets of window shrink film. ...
- 1 roll of double sided tape that comes with the window film or can be purchased separately.
- 1/2 inch wide x 1/2 inch thick weather stripping tape – enough to go around the full exterior perimeter of your window.
How to build storm windows?
Storm windows don't have to be complicated. Build simple wood frames that work as well as aluminum. Wood insulates better. Constructing and adding exterior storm windows is cost-efficient, and the ...
How to build storm window?
Step 1 Determine the Thickness
- Use a thicker stock wood to accommodate the size you need
- Fur out the blind stop a bit so as to leave 3/4” of an inch remaining
- Ad furring strips to the perimeter of your 3/4” screen to accommodate the extra thickness
How do you make a plexiglass storm window?
0:343:11How-To: Build a Storm Window - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNow come about halfway down a short end take a pair of scissors. And cut about halfway through theMoreNow come about halfway down a short end take a pair of scissors. And cut about halfway through the back edge. So that gives us a cut where the glazing. Can go around the corner.
How thick should plexiglass be for a storm window?
Most homeowners settle for ⅛ or ¼ thickness, which is quite clear and allows plenty of light inside your room. However, if you want the glass to be a little thicker, you can opt for 3/16, which is more resistant. In general, all forms of plexiglass are appropriate for any bad weather.
How do you make a plastic storm window?
0:003:57Making Storm Windows, Lesson 6: Applying the Plastic to the FrameYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou're going to place the plastic on the table flat you're going to place the frame. Right on top ofMoreYou're going to place the plastic on the table flat you're going to place the frame. Right on top of it. Now the plastic won't stick until we take the backing off the double sided tape.
How do you make a simple storm window?
0:1211:22DIY Storm Windows - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut to get started I'm cutting some 1 by 4 and 1 by 6 Cypress to length all you'll need for eachMoreBut to get started I'm cutting some 1 by 4 and 1 by 6 Cypress to length all you'll need for each storm window is one of each of these and you'll be left with little of no waste the way I've set it up.
Can you use plexiglass for storm window?
Plexiglas is an ideal composite material for windows and used often in schools, commercial buildings or anywhere high traffic or durability is an issue. If you plan on adding some storm windows to your home, you can make storm windows out of Plexiglas, which is light, inexpensive and easy to work with.
How do you make easy plexiglass windows?
0:223:23Make a Simple Plexiglass Acrylic Window For Shop or Home IdeasYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut you want like a Finch gap around the sides and the top so that that plexi can expand if it doesMoreBut you want like a Finch gap around the sides and the top so that that plexi can expand if it does you're not a heated. Area. But then you just cut your stop.
What kind of plexiglass do you use for windows?
Acrylic plastic sheetsAcrylic plastic sheets have 17 times the impact strength of glass, meaning, it takes a lot more force to shatter acrylic than glass. When you use acrylic sheeting as your window panes, you no longer need to worry about someone getting injured if a pane is to break.
How do you make a storm window for a screened porch?
0:244:00How to Winterize a Porch with Storm Windows | This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThem you cut them to length. And then just screw them in place all right sounds pretty easy it is.MoreThem you cut them to length. And then just screw them in place all right sounds pretty easy it is.
How are storm windows made?
Plastic & Glass Interior: Interior storm windows are panels made of glass, vinyl, or acrylic surrounded by a frame of wood, metal, plastic, tape, or rubber. They attach to the inside of your window frame through magnets, adhesive, a track system, or compression system.
Can you put plexiglass in a storm door?
Plexiglass and polycarbonate are the right choice for a variety of applications. These products can be used for storm windows, storm doors, and other areas where lightweight and strength together with safety glazing are critical.
How thick should storm windows be?
Storms were meant to fit on the outside of a double-hung window and rest up against the blind stop in the screen/storm rebate. They are usually between 3/4” and 1 1/8” thick depending on the thickness of your window's exterior trim.
How thick should storm window glass be?
1/8" (3mm) used in storm windows, picture frames, end tables, insulated units, etc. 3/16" (5mm) used for small table tops, insulated units, small shelves, etc.
Step 1: Measure Measure Measure
Step one is measuring. Measure and document your measurements. Then think about it some more and go back and remeasure. Be sure to take into account the thickness of the wood and the weatherstripping that you are going to install around the frames.
Step 2: Rip Your Wood to Size
I ended up buying 5" x 72" x 1" boards and ripping them to 2" x 72" x 1" pieces. I know every woodworker out there is saying you shouldn't do that because it can cause the board to change and you're right! For my project however, the frame was still rigid enough and the strength of the plexiglass ended up fixing any curved pieces.
Step 3: Put Your Frame Together
I pre-drilled pilot holes for the frames and used a 2.5" screw to attach three parts of the frame. I then slid the plexiglass in from the top and finally attached the top piece with two more 2.5" screws as pictured. Be careful not to screw the screws in too tight because it can crack your frames.
Step 4: Add Some Hooks
I bought two hooks for each frame just in case. This would prevent high winds from knocking one of the frames out onto my cats! With the weatherstripping, the fit was so tight I don't know if even need them, but it makes me feel better.
Step 5: Install the Windows and Begin Inspections
The windows turned out really well. They block the outdoor air even better than I expected. I had two inspectors come out immediately to make sure my project was up to code! Using my multi-meter to measure temperature differences, I was pleasantly surprised.
How to build a storm window frame?
In order to build a storm window frame, you must know the dimensions. Your storm window will hang on the outside of your window frame. The measurements you take must also include this. Measure the height from the outside of your window frame. Next, measure the width in the same manner.
Can you cut storm window lumber?
Once you have the measurements for your storm window, you can cut the lumber to size. Since the pieces are not going to be very large it is easier, and safer, to cut them on a table saw. However, if you use sawhorses a circular saw will also work.
How big are storm window kits?
The storm window kits you will find should be able to make seven average-sized windows measuring three feet by four feet.
How to measure plexiglass?
Using a tape measure, get the dimensions of your window, not including the frame. Measure across the top, across the bottom, down the left side and the right side, and from opposite corner to opposite corner. Write down these numbers to take with you to get the plexiglass.
What is magnetic storm window?
Magnetic storm windows are a cost-effective alternative to complete window replacement for an energy-efficient home. These simply mount to the inside of existing windows and are held in place with a magnet, and the seal created prevents hot or cold air from seeping in from outdoors.
What to do if window doesn't fit?
If you have some areas that don’t fit with the expected 1/2″ gap due to the window being bowed or out of square then they’ll need to be sanded down or ripped down using a circular saw for larger modifications. Once you have a good fit with a 1/2″ gap all around give it a final sanding.
How to make plastic tighter?
Cut off the excess plastic with a razor knife or scissors and then using a hair dryer heat up the plastic which shrinks it to get a nice tight fit and takes any wrinkles out of it. When you’re finished you should have the plastic as tight as a drum and free of any wrinkles.
How to make a mitre for a spherical cylinder?
Step 1 Cut to Length . Cut all four sides of your frame at a 45° angle on the ends to where the longest point of the mitre is equal to the longest length you measured (don’t forget to subtract the 1/2″). Lay everything out on an assembly table or the floor to make sure it fits properly and the joints are tight.
Can you paint a window with a 1/2 gap?
Once you have a good fit with a 1/2″ gap all around give it a final sanding. This would be the time to prime and paint. You can even stain and varnish it if that will blend in better with your window trim. Whatever you decide just make it look good since you’ll be staring at it all winter long.
Can you use foam gaskets on storm frames?
I prefer felt because that allows the frame to slide easily in and out of place, but you can use any type of foam or rubber gasket if you prefer.
