Top Hurricane Impact Window Brands

Key Takeaways

• Top brands like PGT, CGI, and Eco Window Systems offer reliable solutions.

• Hurricane impact windows are essential for protecting your home against severe weather.

• Understanding the construction and features of impact windows is key to choosing the right protection.

• Comparing costs and benefits is crucial for a wise investment in hurricane protection.

• Professional installation is recommended to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety.

Top Hurricane Impact Window Brands

1. PGT's Reputation for Reliability

PGT has been a trusted name in the industry for over 35 years, and its commitment to reliability is evident in every window they produces. Known for crafting windows that can handle just about anything Mother Nature throws their way, PGT's products are a testament to the brand's dedication to safety and durability.

Their WinGuard® Aluminum and Vinyl windows are particularly popular, offering both impact resistance and noise reduction. These windows are engineered with heavy-duty frames and laminated glass to ensure they stay intact during even the fiercest storms.

PGT's impact windows not only meet but often exceed industry standards for storm protection. This is why countless homeowners along the coastline have turned to PGT for windows that promise peace of mind when the weather turns volatile.

2. CGI Windows' Cutting-Edge Solutions

CGI Windows stands out for their innovative approach to hurricane impact windows. They combine strength with style, ensuring that your home's aesthetics are not compromised for the sake of safety. Their Sparta Series, for example, offers a cost-effective solution without sacrificing quality or performance.

3. Eco Window Systems' Sustainable Security

Eco Window Systems is an up-and-coming brand that places a strong emphasis on both security and environmental sustainability. Their windows are designed to provide maximum protection against hurricanes while also being energy efficient. Eco Window Systems prides itself on manufacturing products that contribute to a greener planet, making them a choice for the eco-conscious homeowner.

Strongest Shields for Your Home

When the winds howl and the skies darken, knowing your home is fortified with the best hurricane impact windows can offer peace of mind. These specialized windows are designed to withstand violent weather, safeguarding your family and your possessions. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right ones?

Why Hurricane Impact Windows are a Must-Have

Living in a hurricane-prone area means preparing for the inevitable. Standard windows can shatter under the pressure of high winds, allowing the storm to invade your home. This can lead to catastrophic damage, both structurally and to your interiors. Hurricane impact windows, however, are built to resist shattering, even when struck by flying debris. This resilience is not just about protection during a storm; it's about the safety and security of your home year-round.

Besides that, there's the added benefit of impact windows being energy efficient. They can help reduce your energy bills by keeping your home insulated from the heat and cold. Most importantly, they also block harmful UV rays that can fade your furniture and carpets.

How Quality Windows Can Save Your Home

It's not just about preventing glass from shattering; quality hurricane impact windows maintain the integrity of your home's envelope. When a window fails during a storm, it can lead to an increase in internal pressure, which can lift the roof and push out the walls, leading to catastrophic structural failure. By installing impact windows, you're not just protecting your windows; you're protecting your entire home.

Your Guide to Hurricane-Proof Living

Understanding the Anatomy of a Hurricane Impact Window

Let's break down what makes these windows so robust. Hurricane impact windows consist of two layers of glass bonded with a special interlayer of clear, shatter-proof polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This interlayer keeps the glass from breaking into dangerous shards. The frame is just as important; it's usually made from heavy-duty aluminum or vinyl, reinforced to withstand severe weather conditions.

Moreover, these windows undergo rigorous testing to meet specific standards. They're subjected to high winds and sharp, flying objects to simulate storm conditions. Only those that pass these tests can be certified as impact resistant.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Impact Windows

When shopping for the best hurricane impact windows, consider these factors:

• Material: Look for high-quality aluminum or vinyl frames for durability.

• Design Pressure (DP) rating: This measures the strength of the window against wind and pressure. The higher the DP rating, the better.

• Energy efficiency: Check for ENERGY STAR ratings to ensure your windows will help lower energy costs.

• Warranty: A strong warranty can offer reassurance on your investment.

• Cost: While you shouldn't skimp on safety, look for the best value within your budget.

Investing Wisely in Your Safety

Choosing the right hurricane impact windows is an investment in the safety and security of your home. While the initial cost might seem high, the long-term benefits—such as protection during storms, increased property value, and reduced insurance premiums—make it a wise decision.

It's important to consider not only the upfront cost but also the longevity and performance of the windows over time. Quality impact windows can last for decades, meaning your investment is spread out over many years of service.

• Look for windows with a proven track record of withstanding hurricane conditions.

• Consider the energy savings that high-quality impact windows can provide.

• Choose windows that come with a strong warranty, as this can save you money on potential repairs or replacements.

Ultimately, the cost of not installing hurricane impact windows could be much greater, especially if a storm damages your home. Therefore, investing in these windows is not just about cost—it's about value.

Comparing Costs and Long-Term Benefits

When comparing the costs of hurricane impact windows, it's crucial to look beyond the price tag. The best windows will offer you more than just storm protection; they'll also improve your home's energy efficiency, reduce noise pollution, and even deter burglars.

For instance, the initial cost for a standard-sized hurricane impact window can range from $500 to $1,500 per window, including installation. Over time, however, these windows can save you money on your energy bills, potentially reducing your heating and cooling costs by up to 30%.

Navigating Warranties and Service Agreements

Warranties and service agreements are important considerations when purchasing hurricane impact windows. These documents provide assurance that your investment is protected. A good warranty will cover defects in materials and workmanship and may also include coverage for labor costs associated with repairs.

Make sure to read the fine print and understand what is and isn't covered. Some warranties are transferable, which can be a selling point if you decide to move. The length of the warranty can also be a reflection of the window's quality; longer warranties often signal a more durable product.