Hurricane impact windows are designed to provide year-round protection from high winds, water intrusion, and intruders. They have undergone extensive testing to ensure they can withstand the harshest storms.
In addition to their safety benefits, impact windows help decrease energy usage and heating and cooling costs. They offer a wide range of glass options and can be insulated with low-E coatings, increasing their energy efficiency.
Security
Impact windows are made to withstand impacts from flying debris, like branches and wood splinters. They also resist intruders, preventing burglars from using a hammer or crowbar to break through the glass and gain access to your home.
The glass is bonded together by a layer of Polyvinyl Butyral, or PVB, which bonds the layers and makes them resistant to breaking. This bonding resin keeps the glass intact and in place rather than shattering it into shards that can cause injury or damage to your home.
Hurricane Impact Windows are also certified to withstand air pressure and two-by-four tests, making them an excellent choice for buildings in hurricane-prone areas. Therefore, if you live in an area with a high risk of hurricanes, ask your contractor to use impact windows for your new construction or replacements.
Durability
Hurricanes are unpredictable and can be especially threatening to homes in Florida. High winds carry debris from the storm that can easily smash into windows and cause water damage to your home.
Impact windows, based on the same design as automobile safety glass, feature laminated glass that doesn’t shatter into shards. They are designed to prevent your home from being damaged by broken windows and are often recommended by hurricane experts.
When looking for a window with hurricane-rated impact glass, look for a company that has been in business for a long time and is committed to providing a quality product. Choosing the proper manufacturer can make all the difference in the durability and longevity of your new impact windows.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a priority today, and impact windows are an excellent way to keep cool air in the summer while keeping hot air out during the winter. Moreover, they also help reduce noise pollution from neighbors, traffic, and lawnmowers.
In addition to being highly insulated, hurricane windows feature special Low-E coatings that block UV rays and prevent the sun from warming up the inside of your home as much. As a result, it can significantly lower your cooling and heating costs for the year.
The NFRC rates impact windows for various performance factors such as solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), U-factor, and more. These ratings can help you choose the best storm windows for your property.
Value
Hurricanes can cause a lot of damage to your home, and impact windows are an excellent way to protect your home. They’re durable, energy efficient, and offer many other benefits.
They’re not cheap, but they invest in your home’s security and value. In addition, they’ll help to prevent expensive repairs and save you money on homeowners’ insurance.
When shopping for new replacement windows, it’s essential to look for impact windows that meet Florida Building Code standards for high-velocity hurricane zones. In addition, they’re made with special glass designed to resist wind and water damage.
While they may cost more than traditional windows, you’ll get back most of your purchase price at resale, and they could also save you on homeowners’ insurance costs. These advantages make impact windows a worthwhile investment.
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