A new impact-resistant window can be pricey but worth it in the long run. You'll protect your home and family from storm damage, ensure increased energy efficiency, and give your house a more modern look.
In the general sense, impact-resistant windows are not a 100% deterrent to crime. However, they are far harder to break and can make gaining entry to your home far more difficult for burglars. The reason for this is due to the unique design impact windows use.
Installation of hurricane-proof windows can actually give you an excellent return on your investment – between 75-85% – if you plan to sell or even refinance your home in the near future.
Impact windows are able to withstand all wind-blown debris, forced entry attempts, and wind speeds of up to 175 mph. This is the equivalent wind speed of a Category 5 hurricane.
While impact windows aren't indestructible, they are very hard to break. To get through, a burglar would create a ruckus and likely be caught. Breaking through impact windows typically proves to be considerable work and energy, forcing burglars to move on.
There is a common misconception that hurricane windows and doors are “impact-proof”, but that is not true. They are called impact windows because they are impact-resistant, not impact-proof. The glass may crack when it's hit, but it will not break into pieces, or break away from the frame.
Lower Your Insurance Costs
Because impact windows can help protect your home from high winds and flying debris, your insurance company may give you a discount on your premium. In some cases, the discount can be as much as 20 to 30 percent.
Like any product, windows have a life expectancy. Many impact windows are rated to function properly from 10 to 25 years, depending on the brand and materials.
Many people ask us “Are Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors Soundproof?” While these products are not considered soundproof, they do provide a significant amount of sound reduction when compared to standard non-impact windows and doors.
Category 4 Hurricane
These winds can destroy a home's roof structure and exterior walls, topple most trees and power lines, and cause damage that will last for months. Category 4 hurricanes cause extreme harm to glass windows and doors for homes and businesses.
Most older homes have windows that do not latch, close, or operate properly which can be a nuisance and could also be dangerous in hurricanes; even with hurricane shutters on. With impact hurricane windows and doors you do not need hurricane shutters.
Make no mistake, both types offer better protection than standard glass windows. However, impact windows generally provide more protection since they go well beyond the minimum requirements. Storm windows, while a definite upgrade, do not offer the same level of strength.
Impact windows protect your home from flying debris and wind, while hurricane windows take it one step further. Hurricane windows are often constructed to meet specific building codes and local requirements.
Impact glass is also comprised of laminated glass, which is constructed by sandwiching a near-invisible sheet of plastic between two panes of glass. Laminated glass adds some strength to a windowpane, but the main benefit is that when laminated glass breaks, the plastic holds the broken pieces together.
Hurricane impact windows, while stronger and more water resistant than ordinary windows, will still let wind driven rain intrude. Resistance to water leakage is one of the performance standards hurricane windows are tested for to ensure they meet national standard requirements.
On the day of installation, the time it takes to install your new impact windows depends on factors such as the size and material of the windows being removed and installed as well and the type of material. However, a skilled installer could replace an average-sized window between 45 minutes to an hour.
First, hurricane shutters are a much more affordable option than installing impact resistant windows. Hurricane shutters come in varying wind and impact ratings, depending on their size, shape, and more.
Protection and peace of mind
This reality alone makes storm protection, such as impact windows worth their cost. Impact windows, and other storm protection products, can protect you during severe storms. Impact windows should meet the most current FL building codes.
Depending on the cause of damage—wind or water—your homeowners, flood, or windstorm policies could cover hurricane damage. You may end up paying thousands of dollars in repairs because deductibles can be quite costly. However, it is best that you get comprehensive coverage.
Installing these windows significantly lowers your chances of major damage to your home. Hurricane impact windows have advanced to the point where they can withstand Category 5 wind conditions, and the debris that goes with it. So next time a hurricane hits your neighborhood, don't be caught unprotected.
Impact windows use thick laminated glass and sturdy framing materials, which result in a decrease in external noise by as much as 40%. Their overall thickness ranges from 7/16” to 9/16”, as compared to typical single pane glass measuring an average of 1/8”.
The most important component of a hurricane window is the layer of plastic or polymer material sandwiched between two glass layers. This is known as laminated glass. This laminated layer has a tear-strength up to five times stronger than that found in standard laminated glass.
Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors. Close all interior doors – secure and brace external doors. Keep curtains and blinds closed. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; it could be the eye of the storm – winds will pick up again.