Hurricane impact windows and doors can make a huge difference in preventing home destruction during powerful storms. They also help prevent burglaries and other forced entries by making it nearly impossible for intruders to shatter a window or door glass.
Getting impact windows installed before hurricane season is a great way to turn your natural disaster preparedness plan from reactive to proactive. But how do these hurricane-ready products work?
Frames
These windows’ thick laminated impact glass is designed to resist a force of up to 110 mph from a category two hurricane and help your home retain its structure. They also reduce 99% of damaging UV rays, protecting your furniture, rug, and window treatments from color fade. Expertly installed, impact windows can also improve your home’s energy efficiency and increase its resale value.
The Florida window and door frames are made from pultruded fiberglass, aluminum, or clad aluminum (wood wrapped in aluminum) and painted with electrostatic paint for low maintenance. These frames provide superior strength to vinyl and can withstand high temperatures.
They are also significantly quieter than standard annealed windows and help reduce noise from nearby traffic and rumbling buses or trucks. Many videos online of impact glass withstanding the abuse from baseball bats and even sledgehammers.
Impact glass
Hurricane impact windows and doors defend against damaging winds and wind-borne debris from severe storms. These windows are designed with laminated glass and sturdy frames to withstand high-speed winds and forceful impacts from objects that would break standard window glass. While the glass may crack on impact, an interlayer of clear polyvinyl butyral keeps the window intact and prevents a break-in or home intrusion. You can find many videos online of impact glass withstanding the abuse from baseball bats and crowbars, giving you peace of mind that your family and belongings are safe.
Laminated impact windows also reduce outside noise and 99% of UV rays to protect furnishings, draperies, and artwork. They also offer energy savings that can cut your monthly electricity bills. When installing impact windows, engaging with a qualified specialist familiar with the South Florida environment and with a proven track record of providing good customer care is critical. Proper installation is necessary to qualify for insurance discounts and guarantee your new windows are up to code.
Weatherstripping
If your area is prone to hurricanes, impact windows and doors will protect against the elements and debris.
The tight seal created by impact windows creates a barrier that significantly reduces exterior noise, which makes it easier to relax in your Florida home. Additionally, impact windows block out harmful UV rays, which can help you avoid the costly effects of sun damage to your furniture, carpeting, and wall decor.
Weatherstripping is easy to install and can reduce energy costs by sealing air leaks. Ask a buddy to stand outside at night and beam a flashlight around the perimeter of your home to check for holes around your door. It’s time to install weather stripping if you can see the light beaming through any openings. The same test works for windows, but it’s a little trickier since window frames don’t run in grooves like doors.
Sealing
Impact windows are cost-efficient compared to storm protection options like shutters and plywood. Plus, homeowners can save on energy costs during the summer and winter with effective insulating properties. Finally, impact windows are burglar-resistant, providing peace of mind that your home is secure.
