Impact windows and doors can be an excellent choice for homes in hurricane-prone areas. Building codes in many Florida counties require impact windows and doors in new construction and replacement projects.
No more climbing ladders to install plywood or struggling to lock accordion shutters. Impact windows and doors are designed to withstand various forces, including flying debris from severe storms.
Durability
We’ve all seen the horrendous aftermath of storm damage – 2x4s speared through a window, shattered glass covering furniture and belongings. With the added protection of impact windows, your property will be less vulnerable to structural damage during a hurricane or severe weather event. Quality impact window & doors are designed with thicker glass and sturdy frames to protect against flying debris and extreme atmospheric pressure. To ensure quality, look for a permanent etched mark in the corners of your impact windows and a label that indicates it’s been tested to the DP (debris penetration) and extensive missile test standards.
In the unlikely event that impact glass does break, it shatters into small pebbles instead of sharp, dangerous fragments. This makes it hard for intruders to break in and is a deterrent against burglary. It also blocks loud noises like traffic, airplanes, and neighbors’ barking dogs, creating a peaceful interior environment. Impact-resistant windows are an excellent investment for your home or business, providing year-round peace of mind, safety, security, and energy efficiency.
Energy Efficiency
In addition to protecting your home during severe storms and preventing that street sign down the block from crashing into your couch, impact windows offer superior energy efficiency. This is due to their multiple layers, including PVB plastic and advanced low-emissivity coatings. They also feature a heavy-duty frame designed to withstand force from wind-borne debris, making them less likely to shatter than traditional window products.
Energy-efficient impact windows typically have a higher SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) than traditional options and feature tight seals that prevent air transfer and loss. This can save you hundreds of dollars a month on energy bills! They are also constructed from laminated insulating glass encased in a heavy-duty frame. This design minimizes damage during hurricanes, saving your home from costly repairs. Additionally, these windows protect from harmful UV rays that fade window treatments and furniture, cause flooring and carpeting damage, and harm skin. This additional benefit can boost your home’s resale value and make selling your property more accessible and successful.
Noise Reduction
The laminated glass and insulation that make impact windows stronger than traditional ones also block outside noise. This is a great benefit for homeowners who live in crowded neighborhoods or areas where traffic and leaf blowers are standard. These types of sounds can cause disturbances and distractions in your home. The noise reduction capabilities of impact windows help you to focus on your tasks and enjoy your time at home without interruption. In addition to reducing energy consumption, impact windows are designed to limit heat and ultraviolet radiation from entering your home. This helps to keep your indoor air cool during summer and warm throughout the winter. While impact windows are most well-known for their ability to withstand severe weather conditions, they have many other hidden benefits. In addition to protecting your home from wind-borne debris, they can reduce outside noise and protect you from intruders.
Security
During a storm, impact windows resist the impact of debris and extreme atmospheric pressure. They are designed with dual-layered glass and reinforced framing. Even when damaged, the glass shatters into tiny pebbles, protecting you and your family from dangerous sharp glass pieces. While they protect against storms and debris, these windows deter intruders effectively. Thicker laminated glass and heavy-duty frames are difficult for burglars to break into a home through. Many insurance agencies discount homeowners their insurance premiums when installing hurricane-proof windows. This means a higher resale value for your property and reduced costs for regular repairs. Laminated impact windows also reduce incoming UV light that can cause fading and damage to furnishings and artwork. This can save you money in the long run by lowering your energy bills. In addition, homeowners who install impact windows can qualify for a wind mitigation insurance rebate.