Why Impact-Resistant Windows Are Worth the Investment for Hurricane Season

The average hurricane can produce winds between 100 and 150 miles per hour (mph), with stronger storms exceeding 200 mph. That’s enough power to do some serious damage, especially to standard glass windows that easily shatter. If you live in a hurricane-prone area, one of the best ways you can protect your home and your belongings is to invest in impact-resistant windows. Find out how they stack up compared to standard glass options and discover some surprising benefits below.

How Impact Windows Differ from Regular Glass

Simply speaking, impact windows offer greater protection. While conventional glass windows are typically single-pane, hurricane impact windows contain at least two panes for added durability. This multi-layer design absorbs and deflects pressure during severe weather, preventing cracked or shattered glass. Reinforced frames hold impact windows securely in place, even during the most severe storms. This reinforcement also helps insulate your home.

Standard impact windows are typically made with laminated, shatterproof glass, but there are also plenty of options to upgrade your windows for greater efficiency. A low-emittance (LoE) coating provides greater UV protection, keeping your home cooler on hot summer days.

Benefits of Installing Impact-Resistant Hurricane Windows

Impact-resistant windows are engineered to hold up against high winds and debris, but they offer more than just protection against the elements. Hurricane windows also provide:

Noise Reduction

Tired of waking up to noisy neighbors? Hurricane windows might be the solution. Their multiple layers of laminated glass serve as a sound barrier, reducing outside noise to keep your home calm and quiet. This is an especially attractive feature if you live on a busy street or in a loud neighborhood.

Energy Efficiency

As we touched on briefly above, impact-resistant windows can boost your home’s energy efficiency. The laminated, double-paned glass and reinforced frames prevent air loss to help you maintain a comfortable temperature year-round. This can significantly reduce your reliance on heat and air conditioning. While hurricane windows may seem like a hefty investment upfront, this can help you lower your energy bills over time to offset your initial investment. Plus, you’ll be making your home more sustainable.

UV Protection

Hurricane glass is tinted darker than traditional glass, making it more resilient against harmful UV rays. That means you can enjoy your morning cup of coffee while sitting in a nice sunny spot in your home without having to worry about the potential health risks. And if that’s not something you’re super concerned about, this tinted glass also offers more immediate benefits by preventing sun damage to the interior of your home. With hurricane windows, you don’t have to worry about your flooring or furnishings fading over the summer.

Financial Benefits

We already touched on how impact-resistant windows can reduce your energy bills, but there are a few other financial perks they offer as well. Most notably, many homeowners benefit from reduced insurance premiums. Several states, like Florida, offer insurance discounts for any new construction designed to reduce windstorm losses and damages. If you’re considering installing hurricane windows, ask your insurance agent about potential savings.

Increased Resale Value

While new windows generally increase a property’s value, installing impact-resistant windows can also make your home more desirable to buyers who focus on safety. They also appeal to people looking for sustainable, energy-efficient housing. Some estimates claim that you can expect to receive up to a 70% return on your window investment when you resell your property.

Popular Types of Impact-Resistant Windows

Some of the most popular types of hurricane windows on the market include:

Single- or Double-Hung Impact Windows

Single- and double-hung windows are some of the most versatile options available today. You’ll find these simple windows in various colors, making it easy to match your desired aesthetic. The only difference between single- and double-hung windows is the number of sashes that slide up and down. Single-hung styles have just one sash, while double-hung windows have two.

Casement Impact Windows

If you want flexible windows, the casement style is a perfect choice. These windows open on a hinge, so they can move horizontally or vertically. It’s also easy to partially open them if you just want to let in a slight breeze. Casement windows are also a popular choice for homeowners who prioritize safety. Their sturdy locks and frames hold up extremely well against high winds and pressure.

Picture Impact Windows

Picture windows are a great choice if you’re looking for a custom design that brings plenty of natural light into your space. These stationary glass windows are fixed in place, so they don’t open or close. However, this makes them even more durable and increases their insulation capabilities. Picture windows can also be cut to fit the exact shape you need, making them a popular option for unique home remodeling projects.

Sliding Impact Windows

Slide impact designs are actually made up of two windows. The first one is fixed, and the other one slides horizontally. They’re very similar to double-hung impact windows, just turned on their side. This makes them a sleek and convenient option if your home has low ceilings. Sliding impact windows are also a great choice for small spaces like bathrooms since they don’t take up any extra room when you open them.

What to Look for When Purchasing Impact-Resistant Hurricane Windows

To make sure your impact-resistant windows withstand even the harshest storms, look for brands that:

• Pass the Large Missile Impact Level “D” test. This demonstrates their ability to withstand wind gusts up to 212 mph.
• Hold the HVHZ certification. This verifies that a window is approved for use in high-velocity hurricane zones.
• Incorporate corrosion-resistant materials. This is especially important if you live in a coastal environment where salty sea water can cause damage.
• Adhere to state and federal building codes. Work with a licensed professional to make sure the windows you choose comply with the regulations in your area before you start renovating.

Invest in Your Safety With Hurricane-Resistant Windows

If you want to keep your home and your loved ones safer this hurricane season, start by researching locally manufactured impact-resistant windows. Shopping local makes it easier to find windows designed for your specific climate