Protecting your property against powerful storms and high winds is crucial if you reside in a hurricane-prone location. You can significantly reduce your risk of storm damage by installing hurricane windows.
Hurricane windows don’t just protect against raging weather; they offer several other advantages too.
They’re Stronger
Living in an area prone to hurricanes, you must protect your home against damaging wind, rain and projectile debris. While plywood is one option, installing hurricane windows that withstand high winds is more convenient and attractive.
These windows have a laminated pane of glass that’s strengthened by plastic lamination. The polymer layer remains intact even if the window glass is shattered by flying debris, providing protection and safety for the remainder of the storm.
Virtually all insurance companies recognize this window type and can often help homeowners save on their premiums. In addition, they can provide peace of mind and a sense of security for the family while increasing the value of your property.
They’re More Energy-Efficient
While standard windows break into sharp pieces during a storm, hurricane windows retain their integrity and keep the shattered glass from posing hazards. This is because they use laminated or tempered glass bonded with an interlayer.
The layers prevent excessive shattering, and they also help improve the windows’ energy efficiency by reducing air infiltration. This reduces your home’s temperature fluctuations and lowers its utility bills.
Also, hurricane windows and doors don’t shatter easily, making it difficult for criminals to enter your home. They are also often recessed into the frames to further enhance security. This is especially helpful if you live on a busy street or near a highway. Noise reduction is another bonus of these windows. They can significantly reduce outside sounds like barking dogs, traffic, and blaring stereos.
They’re More Secure
Hurricane windows are designed to withstand high winds and flying debris. They also keep water out of homes. Many hurricanes and tropical storms come with heavy rains, leading to leaky windows. This can cause serious damage and water-related issues.
Hurricane-resistant windows will keep the rain out, protecting your home from costly repairs and keeping it safe from mold. They are also a great deterrent for burglars.
The laminated security glass in hurricane windows makes it extremely difficult to break. We’ve seen a video where the window is hit 31 times with an eight-pound sledgehammer and still holds strong. This level of toughness makes it a popular option for homes, offices, banks, and specialized shops. It also offers peace of mind to homeowners who live in hurricane-prone areas.
They’re More Affordable
Hurricane or impact windows are a forward-thinking upgrade to your home. They come with many benefits, including substantial storm protection, tax incentives, break-in protection, possibly lower insurance, reduced outside noise, and UV protection.
They have a polymer layer between two glass layers, similar to car windshields, preventing the window from shattering and removing debris. They can be installed without needing plywood or shutters, saving labor, time and money.
Costs vary by brand and glass type, with premium options often more expensive. Installation fees, license restrictions, and difficulties installing the windows are other variables that may increase prices. Installing hurricane windows during the off-season can lower the overall cost.
They’re More Attractive
The most obvious benefit of hurricane windows is that they help shield your house from significant storm damage. They’re stronger than standard window frames, blocking airborne debris and 99% of the sun’s UV rays.
Even a skilled criminal would have a hard time breaking through them, and they wouldn’t crack like regular windows do, which can leave your home vulnerable to the elements and even lead to mold, which is costly to remove.
They may help you save money on energy bills, which is another reason to consider them. Because they are made with thicker materials than standard windows, they insulate your home well and keep the summer heat out, reducing your energy bill. This makes them a cost-effective upgrade that can help you lower your homeowner’s insurance costs.
