Hurricane Impact Windows: Benefits, Strength, and What You Need to Know

Almost every week, the news has coverage of devastating storms all around the country. According to the Congressional Budget Office, storm damage has an average national cost of $54 billion. 

Living in Florida, we are always aware of the risk of hurricanes. That's why it's so important to have hurricane impact-resistant windows installed on your home. It’s wise to do so before hurricane season, because when a storm hits it is already too late. Research tells us that damage from flooding and high winds costs the most to repair in hurricane prone areas. To minimize the damage from the storms, residences and businesses turn to products like impact windows. 

In this blog post, we will discuss what hurricane-impact windows are and why you need this special safety glass if you live in Florida. We'll also provide some tips on how to choose the right impact resistant glass windows for your home.

What Are Hurricane Windows?

Many manufacturers also refer to hurricane windows as impact windows, storm windows, or storm impact windows. The windows are not shutters used to protect against poor weather conditions. Impact windows will replace any standard glass windows within the home. Each window contains laminated glass rated against damage caused by high winds and heavy rain. Hurricane glass windows are considered more cost-effective than traditional storm shutters and will provide long-term protection. Although you’re not required to pair hurricane shutters with impact windows, some homeowners opt for both in place if they live in an area prone to hurricanes.

Impact windows are crafted from heavy-duty materials to provide the ultimate level of protection. Companies often make window glass from multiple layers of polyvinyl butyral (PVB). The window may also be coated with a layer of vinyl for increased defense against environmental damage. For example, the vinyl will keep the windows safe from harsh saltwater if you live near the beach. Laminate materials are essential for ultraviolet ray protection. UV protection will prevent any fading and degradation of objects inside the home, such as furniture, flooring, and artwork. A manufacturer will offer aluminum and steel frames as part of the impact windows. The materials help prevent issues like cracking that could occur during sudden pressure changes or temperature shifts.

Hurricane impact windows are specially designed to withstand the hurricane-force winds and heavy rain that come with a hurricane. These windows are made using advanced materials and construction techniques, allowing them to provide superior protection against severe weather.

These types of windows are made from a special type of impact-resistant glass that is designed to withstand the extreme winds and impact from flying debris that can occur during a hurricane. The glass is typically made from laminated polyvinyl butyral (LPV), which is a strong, flexible material that is capable of absorbing the impact of flying objects. This makes impact windows more resistant to failure than traditional windows and damage than traditional windows, which can shatter easily when hit by flying debris.

How Do Hurricane Rated Windows Help During a Severe Storm?

According to FEMA, window and door damage from storms can significantly cause interior damage. If windows and doors are compromised, then indoor damage will become a significant issue. The shattered windows will allow any rain, sharp shards, and other debris to enter the home's interior. The result is water damage that could affect the structure. Extended water exposure warps flooring and can soften sheetrock. Repairing structural damage is costly and easily preventable with the installation of hurricane impact windows.

Notably, impact windows also provide security for the health of family members inside the dwelling. When windows break during tropical storms or hurricanes, the shattered glass could cause minor and major injuries to anyone located near the entry point. With no protection in place, flying debris could get inside the home and cause harm too.

Impact windows are tested under laboratory conditions to measure their sustainability against wind speeds. Standard windows will shatter when exposed to wind speeds above 77 miles per hour. Impact windows will frequently provide protection at wind speeds as much as 150 to 170 miles per hour. A Category 5 hurricane has wind speeds above 157 miles per hour. Winds at this speed cause extreme damage, with standard windows shattering almost instantly. Hurricane windows will remain intact, though.

Consumers can review the type of wind load the products can handle within the performance guide of impact windows. The windows are tested in two ways: positive pressure and negative pressure. With positive pressure, manufacturers review how much windows can withstand force as the wind presses against a structure. For negative pressure, testing reviews how the windows react as the wind pulls away from a building. A standard for the industry is that the windows should withstand 50 pounds of wind pressure per square foot.

Proven Advantages of Hurricane Impact Glass Windows

Storm protection isn’t the only advantage of impact windows. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, energy usage declined between 13 and 21 percent in homes retrofitted with storm windows. Installation costs of the storm windows were recouped in most cases within five years due to energy savings on a homeowner’s electric bill. Storm windows reflect radiant heat better than standard windows, helping keep warmth inside a home during colder months.

Another consideration when purchasing impact windows is burglary protection with windows crafted from thick layers of materials, including PVB. The materials resist shattering, even when being attacked by a crowbar. Furthermore, you can even find impact windows that have undergone testing to withstand bullets.

Keep in mind that as local regulations change, storm windows are no longer optional in many areas. For instance, Florida Building Code requires that all homes have exterior protection against wind-borne debris. Homeowners need storm doors and windows to prevent damage from objects labeled as small and large missiles. FAS Exteriors offers effective impact windows to help consumers in Florida remain compliant. Once installed, you can contact your homeowner insurance company to inquire about discounts on your premiums.

With so many other benefits, including long term benefits in the form of a higher resale value, it’s clear to see that hurricane windows are the superior choice for new windows no matter what the next hurricane season has in store.

Why You Need Hurricane Windows in Florida

If you live in Florida, it is absolutely essential to have impact windows installed on your home. In addition to providing protection from the strong winds and flying debris associated with hurricanes, there are several other reasons why you might want to consider installing impact-resistant windows in your Florida home. For example:

1. Impact windows can help in noise reduction, making your home quieter and more peaceful.
2. Because they’re made so strong in order to be hurricane resistant, impact windows can provide added protection and security for your home, helping to prevent break-ins.
3. With proper installation, impact windows can help save energy and reduce your energy bills by keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
4. Any high quality window, including impact windows, can add value to your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers if you decide to sell in the future.

Overall, installing hurricane windows in your Florida home can provide a range of benefits that can help protect your property and improve your quality of life.

Finding the Best Hurricane Impact Windows

When choosing hurricane windows, there are several factors to consider in order to ensure that you get the right windows for your needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Consider the size and style of the windows you need. Just like standard window glass, hurricane windows are available in various sizes and styles, so it's important to choose windows that will fit your home's existing openings and match your home's aesthetic.
2. Consider the material used to make the windows. Hurricane windows are typically made from laminated polyvinyl butyral (LPV), but there are also other materials, that can be used. When it comes to hurricane window frames, choose a material that is strong, durable, and capable of withstanding the winds and impact from flying debris associated with hurricanes.
3. Consider the window's energy efficiency. Hurricane windows can help save energy and reduce your energy bills, but not all windows are equally efficient. Look for windows that have a low U-value and a high solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) in order to get the best energy performance.
4. Consider the window's warranty and customer service. Choose a reputable company that offers a good warranty on their hurricane windows and has a history of providing excellent customer service. This will help ensure that you get the support you need if you have any issues with your windows in the future.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right impact windows for your Florida home and enjoy the many benefits they have to offer.

FAS Exteriors: Your Local Florida Impact Window Experts

When considering replacement windows for your home, be sure to keep hurricane protection in mind. If you are looking for an impact window expert to replace windows in your home in Central and South Florida, be sure to contact FAS Exteriors before the next storm approaches. Our team has years of experience providing quality windows and doors to homeowners throughout the state, and we can help you find the perfect impact-resistant windows for your home. So why wait? We offer financing to assist with paying for your project. Contact FAS Exteriors today to learn more about our products and services!