In hurricane-prone areas, property owners are often required by law to install impact windows. These windows and doors offer protection from flying debris, reduced noise levels, and improved energy efficiency.
They also help homeowners avoid burglaries, as intruders will have a more challenging time breaking the glass to get inside. These windows are also better protected against harsh UV rays that can cause the furniture, art, and other items in the house to fade.
Durability
Unlike regular windows, hurricane resistant windows are made with two or more panes of glass bonded with a layer of PVB plastic. It means the shards stay in place when they break rather than flying around and hitting people or property.
They also protect your home from burglars because they are more difficult to breach. In addition, they reduce noise levels from outside by blocking the roar of neighborhood lawnmowers or late-night partying.
Moreover, these windows offer permanent storm protection and can help you save on energy costs. They can even improve your home’s resale value.
Energy Efficiency
Aside from providing superior protection against the damage caused by wind-borne debris, impact windows also help improve home energy efficiency. The thicker layers of glass reduce the heat entering the house and prevent it from escaping.
Furthermore, they minimize the transfer of harmful UV rays that fade window treatments and furnishings, harming skin and damaging hardwood floors. This benefit alone is why many insurance companies offer discounts on homeowner policies for homes with impact windows installed.
Lastly, the high insulation ratings of impact windows can significantly reduce outside noise. It is crucial for those living in noisy areas or urban settings.
Aesthetics
You may think that impact windows are bulky and unattractive, but these days, they have a sleek, modern look that improves your home’s curb appeal. They’re also available in various colors so that you can match them to your home’s color scheme.
Wood is a time-tested construction material that can give your building a traditional, homey feel. It’s durable and has good insulating capabilities, which help to regulate interior temperatures and decrease energy costs. However, it can rot and needs regular maintenance. Vinyl and aluminum are alternatives that can save you money on upkeep. They’re also more affordable than wood.
Security
Unlike standard easily penetrated windows, impact-resistant glass and frames offer protection from burglars and severe weather.
They prevent debris propelled by hurricane-force winds and severe storms from crashing into buildings, damaging property, and potentially injuring or killing people inside. It is crucial in hurricane-prone areas.
Laminated impact-resistant glass is tough to break through; even if it shatters, the pieces remain contained. It helps deter burglars from breaking into homes by making it more difficult for them to enter and makes the homeowner much safer.
Maintenance
Hurricanes and severe storms can generate wind-driven debris that wreak havoc on homes and buildings. The most common way this debris enters a home is through broken windows. The shards of glass from these broken windows can become wind-driven missiles that can cause property damage and severe injury.
Impact-resistant windows help prevent this property damage by reducing the force applied to the frames and glass during a storm event. Additionally, they provide intruder protection benefits, generate energy savings, and eliminate the need for storm shutters.
Warranty
Building codes require impact-resistant windows and doors for new construction or replacements if you live in Florida or another hurricane-prone area. However, they are also an excellent investment for other reasons:
They provide resistance against potential forced entries from intruders and offer UV protection that reduces the fading of carpets, fabrics, wood, and photographs. They also help reduce noise and increase your home’s value at resale.
Window manufacturers’ warranties vary, so compare what each company offers before deciding. Understanding the warranty promises can save you costly repairs in the future.
Installation
In areas prone to severe weather events, impact windows are designed to protect structures from the penetration of debris propelled by hurricane-force winds. The glass not only qualifies a window as impact-resistant but the frame, too.
Knowing that your home is secure without needing last-minute plywood installation, you can have peace of mind. Aside from preventing wind-borne debris from causing costly property damage, these windows also make it more difficult for burglars to breach your home. Lastly, they improve energy efficiency by keeping cool air inside during the summer and warm air in during the winter, saving you money on your utility bills.
