Interior Storm Windows (Acrylic Inserts) for Canadian Homes & Buildings
Custom interior acrylic inserts add a sealed secondary-glazing layer to existing windows—helping reduce drafts and outside noise while preserving the exterior. Magnetite does not sell traditional exterior storm windows.
Interior storm window inserts—not traditional exterior storm windows
A second glazing layer, installed from inside.
People searching for “storm windows” in Canada often mean a second layer of glazing for warmth, drafts, and quieter rooms. Magnetite Canada does not sell traditional exterior storm windows. We manufacture and install custom interior acrylic window inserts (secondary glazing): a magnetic-frame panel fitted on the room side of your existing window. The insert creates a sealed air space that can improve comfort and reduce sound through the window area—while leaving the exterior appearance unchanged.
Comfort and fewer drafts
Preserve the exterior
Removable interior retrofit
Compare your options
Traditional exterior storms vs Magnetite interior inserts
Compare mounting, exterior appearance, access, and intended use before choosing the right second glazing layer for your building.
| Traditional exterior storm windows | Magnetite interior acrylic inserts | |
|---|---|---|
| Mounting | Typically mounted outside the primary window | Fitted on the interior (room side) |
| What Magnetite sells | — (not Magnetite’s product) | Custom acrylic secondary-glazing inserts (ProCore / SlimLine; typically 3 mm or 6 mm) |
| Exterior look | Can change façade; hardware/frame visible outside | Original exterior preserved — useful for condos, heritage, and HOA-sensitive buildings |
| Access / maintenance | Exterior access for install and seasonal work | Measured and installed from inside; designed to be removable for cleaning/ventilation |
| Performance intent | Extra weather layer / seasonal storm panel | Sealed air cavity for comfort, drafts, and noise reduction through the window |
| Disruption | Ladder/exterior work; may need exterior access | Low-disruption interior retrofit; many projects install in one day after manufacture |
| When it may fit | Some buildings with suitable exterior access and storm-rated openings | Homes, condos, commercial, and heritage where exterior change is restricted or undesirable |
How It Works
Magnetite is a retrofit secondary-glazing system: the existing window stays in place. Inserts are custom-measured, made in Canada (Canadian Patent No. 3,004,733), and professionally installed. A magnetic seal and air gap add a second interior layer; inserts are removable for cleaning and ventilation depending on configuration. How Magnetite works.
Inspection & Measurement
Frames, sashes and glass are assessed; exact interior jamb dimensions are captured, including uneven openings.
Custom Fabrication
Custom acrylic panels—typically 3 mm or 6 mm—with ProCore or SlimLine framing are manufactured to your opening dimensions. Explore the full product range.
Interior Mounting
Installed on the inside trim or jambs — no exterior disturbance or window removal.
Reversible Access
Inserts are designed to be removable for cleaning, ventilation, or maintenance. Exact operation depends on the window and selected configuration.
Built for real buildings
One solution, several applications.
Residential
Improve comfort in houses, apartments and condos especially where replacement is expensive, disruptive or restricted.
Commercial
Upgrade offices, retail spaces and multi-unit properties while keeping work focused on the inside of the building.
Heritage
Support conservation goals by improving interior comfort while preserving the approved exterior appearance.
Cost vs full window replacement
What Magnetite costs vs full window replacement
Pricing varies by project; request an estimate for an exact quote.
What drives project price
- Number and dimensions of openings
- Acrylic thickness (typically 3 mm or 6 mm)
- Framing system (ProCore or SlimLine)
- Shape complexity, including arches, bays, oversized openings, and skylights
- Access and installation requirements
- Location and dealer-installer availability
- Patio-door or specialty openings, if included
When the existing windows are structurally sound, an interior retrofit can avoid full frame tear-out, exterior façade changes, and the construction disruption associated with full replacement.
Request a project-specific estimate with your measurements, product selection, and installation needs.
FAQs
What are Magnetite interior storm window inserts?
Magnetite inserts are custom interior acrylic panels installed over existing windows with a magnetic frame and continuous seal. They create a second glazing layer and insulated air space without removing the original window. They are often called interior storm window inserts or secondary glazing—not traditional exterior storm windows.
Why does a custom fit matter?
A precise fit is essential for an airtight seal. Custom-measured inserts help reduce drafts and support thermal and acoustic performance compared with poorly fitted off-the-shelf panels.
Can inserts fit irregular or unique window shapes?
Yes. Custom fabrication suits arched, bay, oversized, or uniquely shaped openings where standard products may not fit. Compatibility still requires assessment of frame condition, clearances, and hardware.
Do Magnetite inserts work in Canadian climates?
Yes. The added sealed air space is used across Canadian homes and buildings to support comfort through cold winters and temperature swings. Results depend on the existing window, air leakage, humidity, and installation.
Are inserts suitable for commercial buildings?
Yes. See also our commercial interior storm windows application page for offices, hospitality, institutions, and mixed-use buildings.
Can inserts be removed after installation?
Yes. Inserts are designed to be removable for cleaning, ventilation, or maintenance. Exact operation depends on the window and selected configuration.
Are Magnetite inserts the same as traditional exterior storm windows?
No. Traditional exterior storm windows typically mount outside the primary window and can change the building’s exterior appearance and maintenance access. Magnetite products are interior acrylic secondary-glazing inserts installed on the room side. They can serve a similar comfort role (extra sealed layer) but are a different product category. Magnetite Canada does not sell traditional exterior storm windows.
When might traditional exterior storm windows still apply?
Exterior storms can still make sense when a building already uses approved exterior storm systems, when exterior access and aesthetics allow it, or when a specification/building standard calls for exterior storm panels. If your priority is preserving the exterior, condo/heritage restrictions, interior install access, or a removable magnetic acrylic retrofit, Magnetite interior inserts are usually the better fit. Magnetite can advise after reviewing openings—without implying we supply exterior storm hardware.
How much do Magnetite inserts cost vs replacing windows?
Magnetite Canada states the system can cost approximately 40–60% less than full replacement. Pricing varies by dimensions, number of openings, acrylic thickness (3 mm or 6 mm), framing system (ProCore / SlimLine), access, location, and installation. Request an estimate for a project-specific figure.
Will interior storm inserts also help with noise?
The sealed secondary layer can reduce sound travelling through the window area. Magnetite advertises up to 70% noise reduction under suitable conditions; results vary. For acoustic detail, myths (not fully “soundproof”), and condo/traffic/aircraft FAQs, see Reduce sound.
Will they help with drafts and energy bills?
The magnetic seal and air space can reduce drafts and heat transfer through the window area. Magnetite advertises potential heating/cooling energy savings of up to 30%; actual savings depend on building and climate. More on Climate control.
Do I need to replace my windows to get storm-window-like benefits?
Not if the existing windows are structurally sound. Magnetite is a retrofit: inserts install from the interior. Full replacement may still be needed when frames or glass have failed structurally—assess before choosing.
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