Hurricane-resistant windows are a must in Florida, and they can save you money on homeowners insurance by protecting your house from storm damage. They are thicker than traditional windows and designed to meet strict building codes.
The critical element that makes them so strong is a PVB interlayer that holds the glass together, even if it shatters from wind or debris. It is why they are less likely to break than regular windows.
The Location
If you live in a hurricane evacuation zone, your local building codes might require you to install Hurricane Proof Window. Even if you don’t, it’s wise to invest in these windows because they’ll save you money over time by protecting your home from the damaging effects of high winds and flying debris.
They can also help you save on your energy bills by reducing the amount of UV rays entering your home and dampening noise. And if you ever decide to sell your house, hurricane windows will increase its resale value.
Choose impact-resistant glass at least 7/16 inches (11.1 mm) thick. This thickness will ensure the window can withstand high winds and flying debris. Check that the window has a permanent mark; if it does not, look for a temporary label indicating the window meets the minimum safety standards required by your city. Identifying the marking may be difficult if the windows are dirty, so it’s best to check them under good lighting.
The Climate
While it’s true that hurricane-resistant windows are more expensive than standard glass, the cost may be recovered in a short time via reduced homeowners’ insurance premiums. Additionally, these windows can prevent damage caused by a change in air pressure that can collapse walls and roofs.
These windows also protect against the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can fade window treatments, damage furniture, and flooring, and harm skin. The multi-layer glass used in impact windows is incredibly energy efficient, keeping cool air inside during warm days and heat out during cold ones.
While sheets of plywood are effective at protecting a home from hurricanes, they require someone to install them and take them down before the next storm, which can be difficult and time-consuming for homeowners who have busy lives. In contrast, hurricane-resistant windows install and stay in place until you can remove them. If you’re considering installing hurricane-resistant windows, talk to a contractor about your climate and other factors affecting the installation process.
The Building
Hurricane windows are a great way to protect your home from high winds and flying debris during a storm. They also help to keep the structure of your home intact by keeping the air pressure inside stable. It is crucial because a change in air pressure can cause structures like walls and roofs to collapse.
The glass used in hurricane windows is usually tempered or laminated and has a polymer layer in between that holds the window together, even if it is shattered by debris. They are designed to withstand Category 5 hurricanes and often come with aluminum or reinforced vinyl frames, which are more potent than wood. This material is commonly used in standard windows.
While hurricane windows are more expensive than regular windows, they may be worth the investment if you live in a hurricane-prone area. In addition, installing hurricane windows can reduce your homeowner’s insurance premiums. If you’re considering purchasing hurricane-resistant windows for your home, look for a permanent mark on the corner of the glass that identifies the manufacturer, date of manufacture, and the certifications or safety standards it meets.
The Budget
Hurricane windows are a necessary investment for homes in hurricane-prone areas. They provide superior protection from the elements and can even help to reduce homeowners’ insurance premiums. For these reasons, many home builders install hurricane windows in new construction. However, retrofitting your building with hurricane-proof windows is still worth the investment if your building is an existing structure.
Typically, the cost of installing hurricane-proof windows depends on the size and customization of the windows. They can range anywhere from $1,908-$10,707 per home. The price is slightly higher than standard windows, but it is well worth the peace of mind and savings in homeowner’s insurance premiums.
If you are considering investing in hurricane-resistant windows for your home, it is a good idea to look around and compare prices. You will find that most quality windows are marked with a label that includes their name, date of manufacture, and technical specifications as to what they can withstand.
