Impact windows are oftentimes worth the money. Though they're typically more costly than standard windows, the impact options can reduce the price of your home insurance and help prevent costly home damages caused by storms.
The biggest drawback of impact windows is their cost, which is why they are typically only used in high-risk areas. However, it is beneficial in the long run because they last much longer than other types of glass.
Home Protection
Even if you have hurricane shutters, there is the potential for strong winds to get underneath and tear them off. Windows that are rated for hurricane impact resistance are by far the best way to protect your home and family.
While replacing your home's windows is a costly project, it can pay off by adding value to your home. According to the Remodeling's 2023 Cost vs. Value report, replacing vinyl windows adds an average of $13,766 in value to a home — about 69% of the cost of the project.
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.
While no window, lock, light or security system is 100% burglar proof, impact resistant windows and doors make it much more difficult for intruders to gain entry into your home.
The cost of having custom impact window glass installed will likely be significantly higher. But on average, expect to pay an average of $8,000 for installation. The range is quite expensive based on the service, material and professional you choose, but it can be between $2,600 and $14,000.
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.
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.
Category 1: 74-95 mph. Category 2: 96-110 mph. Category 3: 111-129 mph. Category 4: 130-156 mph.
Hurricane Windows & Impact Windows Are Not the Same
To be considered a hurricane window, a product simply needs to provide a certain level of wind resistance. An impact window, on the other hand, will offer wind resistance as well as protection from impacts.
Many impact windows are rated to function properly from 10 to 25 years, depending on the brand and materials.
Glass tends to keep the lowest temperature in your household, and, as your windows keep in warm, condensation layers the glass. Impact glass products in particular get a lot of condensation as they are airtight.
No, impact windows are not soundproof. If there are extremely loud noises outside, like a fire truck or scream, you're likely to hear them. And the closer the noise is to the window, the more likely you are to hear it. According to PGT, there's a 65% reduction in sound with PGT impact windows.
The average cost of hurricane-impact windows for an entire home is $1,908 to $10,707, with a national average of $5,332. The average price for each individual hurricane window ranges from $100 to $500, including installation.
Builder grade windows are inexpensive and made from low grade materials as opposed to a higher quality or custom grade that are more durable to last. They are a popular choice because they save builders money.
Wood replacement windows are more expensive, offer a natural look, and can be painted or stained. They can provide more style options and add to the overall curb appeal of the home. Fiberglass windows require less maintenance than wood windows and are less expensive. They're strong, sturdy, and offer energy efficiency.
Simply put, as the housing supply decreases or as demand rises, creating an inventory shortage, home values go up. A real estate inventory shortage means that there are fewer sellers than there are buyers.
Practically speaking, you'll want to do the kitchen remodel first because that work will create the most dust and debris, which you won't want to land on new paint or finish jobs.
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.
Vinyl excels at withstanding strong winds and other extreme weather conditions. Aluminum frames are incredibly durable. Whether it's severe weather or intruders, it's far more difficult to break through aluminum impact windows.
If you're looking for long-lasting windows that protect your family from severe weather elements, the durable strength of aluminum is also highly suitable for hurricane impact windows.