Choosing Hurricane Impact Windows for Your Home: Complete Guide

by Impact Windows Center January 21, 2024

Key Takeaways

Hurricane impact windows are crucial for home safety in storm-prone areas.
Understanding the ratings and certifications of impact windows ensures compliance with building codes and maximum protection.
Choosing the right type of hurricane impact window depends on your specific needs and location.
Professional installation is key to the effectiveness of hurricane impact windows.
While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term savings in terms of energy efficiency and insurance discounts make impact windows a wise investment.

Your Safe Haven: Picking the Best Hurricane Impact Windows

When it comes to safeguarding your home against the fury of nature, there's nothing quite as crucial as the windows you choose. Living in an area where hurricanes are a part of life means preparing for the worst, and that starts with ensuring the integrity of your home's weakest link – its windows.

What Makes a Window Truly Hurricane-Proof?

Let's talk about what we mean by 'hurricane-proof'. A window that can stand up to a hurricane has to be tough. It's not just about the glass, but the frame and the way it's all put together. These windows are designed to resist shattering upon impact from flying debris, one of the most common and dangerous threats during a storm. They're built with a combination of materials like laminated glass and a sturdy frame that keeps everything in place, even when Mother Nature is doing her worst.

Protection and Peace of Mind: The Advantages

Now, you might be thinking, "Okay, so they're strong, but what else?" Well, besides keeping your home intact during a hurricane, these windows have a bunch of other benefits:

Energy Efficiency: They're great at insulating your home, which means keeping the heat out during the summer and in during the winter.
UV Protection: That same laminated glass that keeps the wind out also blocks harmful UV rays, which protects your furniture from fading.
Noise Reduction: They can also help keep your home quieter by reducing the sound from outside.
Security: The strength of these windows also makes them a tough nut to crack for potential intruders.
Insurance Discounts: Many insurance companies will give you a break on your premiums if you have hurricane impact windows installed.

So, you're not just buying a window; you're investing in your home's safety, efficiency, and comfort.

Decoding the Tech: Understanding Window Ratings

What Do Those Numbers Mean?

When you're window shopping (pun intended), you're going to come across a lot of numbers and ratings. It's like a secret code, but once you crack it, you'll know exactly what you're looking at. Here's the gist:

Design Pressure (DP) rating: This number tells you how much wind and pressure the window can handle. The higher the DP rating, the stronger the window.

Impact Resistance: Look for a rating that includes 'missile level' and 'wind zone' to know if the window can handle the kind of stuff a hurricane throws around.

Most importantly, make sure the windows you're looking at meet the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. If they do, you can rest easy knowing they've been put through the ringer and came out on top.

Ensuring Compliance with Building Codes

Before you put your money down, you need to make sure what you're buying is actually going to do the job. That means checking your local building codes. These codes are there to keep you safe, and they'll tell you exactly what standards your windows need to meet. If your windows aren't up to code, not only are you not protected, but you could also face fines or problems when it comes time to sell your house.

Therefore, always check with your local building department or a knowledgeable contractor to ensure that your chosen windows are compliant. It's an extra step, but it's worth it for the peace of mind it brings.

The Search Begins: Finding the Right Impact Windows

Analyze Your Needs: Location and Risk Assessment

Choosing the right hurricane impact windows starts with knowing what you're up against. If you're right on the coast, you'll need something that can handle stronger winds and more flying debris than if you're a little inland. It's all about assessing the risk for your specific location.

Here's how you do it:

Check historical data on storms in your area.
Consider the direction your windows face – some directions may be more vulnerable.
Look at the surrounding environment – are there trees or structures that could pose a threat?

Armed with this knowledge, you'll be able to pick windows that are up to the challenge.

Window Types: Pros and Cons

Different types of impact windows come with their own set of pros and cons. Let's break it down:

Laminated Glass: The Clear Contender

Laminated glass is the MVP when it comes to hurricane impact windows. It's made by sandwiching a tough plastic film between two layers of glass. Even if something hits it hard enough to break the glass, that plastic layer keeps everything in place, preventing dangerous shards from flying around.

Pros:

High impact resistance
UV protection
Sound insulation

Cons:

Can be more expensive than other options
Heavier, which may require stronger frames and support

Polycarbonate: The Unbreakable Choice

If you're looking for something even tougher, polycarbonate windows are virtually unbreakable. They're like the superhero of windows.

Pros:

Almost impossible to break
Lightweight
Can come in clear or tinted options

Cons:

More expensive than laminated glass
Can scratch more easily than glass

Coated Glass: The Energy Saver

Coated glass windows have a special layer that reflects heat, which is great for keeping your energy bills down.

Pros:

Energy efficient
Blocks heat without reducing light

Cons:

Less impact resistance than laminated or polycarbonate windows
Coating can be damaged over time

Each type has its own place, and the best choice for you depends on your particular needs and budget.

Installation: Securing Your Investment

Once you've chosen the perfect windows, the next critical step is installation. Proper installation is not just important; it's everything. Even the best windows will fail if they're not installed correctly. Here's where you need to be meticulous.

Vet the Vetters: Choosing a Trusted Installer

Start by finding a reputable installer. Look for someone with a track record of excellence in installing hurricane impact windows. Ask for references, check online reviews, and don't be shy about asking to see proof of their work. Remember, the safety of your home is in their hands.

Here are some steps to ensure you're choosing the right installer:

Verify their licensing and insurance.
Ask about their experience specifically with hurricane impact windows.
Get a written estimate and read the fine print.

Choosing the right installer is as crucial as the windows themselves. After all, even a small mistake can compromise the integrity of the protection you're installing.

A Step-by-Step Guide to the Installation Process

Once you've got your installer lined up, it's time to prepare for the big day. Here's what to expect:

The old windows will be carefully removed to avoid damage to the structure.
The new window frames will be securely anchored to the building to withstand high winds.
Finally, the windows will be sealed and tested to ensure they're watertight.

Throughout the process, a good installer will keep you informed and answer any questions you have. They'll also ensure everything is cleaned up afterward – because nobody wants to deal with a mess on top of everything else.

Cost vs. Value: Budgeting for Your Windows

Pricing Out the Perimeter: A Breakdown of Costs

Let's talk numbers. Investing in hurricane impact windows isn't cheap, but it's just that – an investment. The cost will vary depending on the size of your windows, the type of glass you choose, and the complexity of the installation. But here's a general idea:

Laminated glass windows can range from $40 to $55 per square foot.
Polycarbonate windows might set you back $35 to $50 per square foot.
Coated glass options could cost between $10 and $30 per square foot.

Remember, these are just rough estimates. Your actual costs could be higher or lower depending on various factors, including your location and the current market conditions.

Insurance Incentives: Savings Beyond the Storm

But wait, there's more. Installing hurricane impact windows can also lead to savings on your homeowners insurance. Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes that are better protected against storms, which can help offset the initial cost of the windows.

So, while the upfront cost might be significant, the long-term savings – both in terms of energy efficiency and insurance discounts – can make hurricane impact windows a smart financial decision in the long run.

Long-term Love: Caring for Your Impact Windows

Hurricane impact windows are designed to withstand the forces of severe storms and offer multiple benefits, including energy efficiency and increased security.
It's important to understand the technical ratings and ensure that your chosen windows meet local building codes for maximum safety.
Selecting the right type of window and a reputable installer are critical steps in the process.
While the upfront cost is considerable, the potential long-term savings on energy bills and insurance premiums can be significant.
Maintaining your impact windows and addressing repairs promptly will ensure they continue to offer optimal protection.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

How long do hurricane impact windows typically last?

Hurricane impact windows are built to last and typically come with warranties ranging from 10 to 20 years. However, with proper maintenance, they can protect your home for much longer.

Are hurricane impact windows bulletproof?

While they are extremely durable and can withstand significant impact, hurricane impact windows are not bulletproof. They are designed to resist shattering from storm-borne debris, not bullets.

Do hurricane impact windows eliminate the need for shutters?

Hurricane impact windows greatly reduce the need for shutters, but some homeowners choose to use both for added peace of mind and protection.

Can you install hurricane impact windows yourself?

Due to the precision required for installation and the importance of proper fitting for their effectiveness, it is highly recommended that hurricane impact windows be installed by professionals.

What's the difference between impact windows and storm windows?

Impact windows are designed to withstand the impact of debris during a hurricane and are a permanent installation. Storm windows are temporary installations that add an extra layer of protection to existing windows during severe weather.