Materials to Make Interior Storm Windows

Wood Trim and Casing

• Purchase wood molding or casing, which should be finished before you cut them. This wood is typically inexpensive and contractors often throw out scraps, so you can ask them for some if they are working nearby. Use the wood trim to frame the top, bottom and sides of your interior storm windows. Oak or pine are good for this type of trim.

Window Film

• Purchase window film, which can help reduce the amount of sunlight that comes through the window. Window films will help you achieve energy savings, reduce glare on televisions and computer screens, and prevent fading of your furniture. The material will hold the glass together in the event that severe weather breaks the outer glass, minimizing the danger of flying glass. It also will make it more difficult for burglars to enter your home

Impact-resistant Glass

• Buy impact-resistant glass at the hardware store. This glass is often heat-strengthened and glazed with protective chemicals. This type of glass also does a better job of insulating your home and reducing energy costs than regular glass.

Bonding Adhesive

• Purchase a strong bonding adhesive to hold all the parts of the interior storm window together. Hardware stores should carry a range of products that will give you the strength you need, as ordinary wood glue won't be strong enough for an interior storm window. Companies like Symbol, Magic and Maydos produce strong bonding glues. You can also buy foam tape, which is a strong acrylic adhesive that uses urethane or vinyl foam.