Hurricane Windows vs. Impact Windows: Differences, Pros, and Cons

FAS Exteriors provides durable and practical window solutions designed to meet a wide range of needs, especially for Central Florida homeowners seeking reliable protection against severe weather. Our products are crafted with high-quality materials and advanced technology to ensure long-lasting performance, energy efficiency, and enhanced home security.

Choosing the right windows is crucial to enhancing safety and protecting your home from extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes and storms. Properly selected windows can withstand high winds, flying debris, and heavy rain, significantly reducing the risk of damage to your property and increasing the safety of your family.

Investing in impact-resistant or hurricane-rated windows not only enhances resilience but also contributes to energy savings and noise reduction, making them a practical and innovative choice for homes in vulnerable areas.

What Are Hurricane Windows?

Hurricane windows, often referred to as storm windows by those looking for replacement windows for homes in hurricane-prone areas, are specially engineered to provide superior protection against severe weather conditions. Unlike standard glass windows, hurricane windows are designed to withstand hurricane-force winds and the impact of flying debris, making them an essential upgrade for homeowners preparing for hurricane season.

Definition and Key Features

Hurricane windows consist of multiple layers of laminated glass, typically two panes bonded together with a strong polymer layer such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB). This unique construction ensures that if the glass is struck by debris during a storm, it may crack but will not shatter into dangerous shards. Instead, the glass remains intact, clinging to the polymer layer, thus maintaining the window’s integrity and protecting the interior of the home.

These windows are set in reinforced, ultra-strong frames designed to resist the high pressures and forces generated during hurricanes. This combination of laminated glass and reinforced framing allows hurricane windows to withstand hurricane-force winds that would easily break standard glass windows.

Benefits of Hurricane Impact Windows

One of the primary benefits of hurricane windows is their ability to provide superior protection compared to traditional storm windows or standard glass windows. They significantly reduce the risk of structural damage during severe weather conditions by preventing wind and water intrusion. This protection not only safeguards your home but also enhances the safety of its occupants.

Additionally, hurricane windows can improve energy efficiency by providing better insulation against heat and cold. They also reduce noise pollution, making your home more comfortable throughout the year. Unlike temporary storm shutters, hurricane windows offer a permanent solution that does not require installation or removal before and after storms.

Potential Drawbacks

While hurricane windows offer many advantages, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. The upfront cost of installing hurricane windows is generally higher than that of standard replacement windows or traditional storm windows. However, this initial investment often pays off in the long run through reduced damage repair costs and energy savings.

Another consideration is that hurricane windows typically require professional installation to ensure their effectiveness and compliance with local building codes. Improper installation can compromise their performance during hurricane season.

Hurricane windows provide a durable, long-term solution for homeowners seeking to protect their properties against the destructive forces of severe weather. By choosing these specialized windows, you can ensure your home is better equipped to withstand hurricane-force winds and enjoy peace of mind throughout hurricane season.

What Are Impact Windows?

While impact windows and hurricane windows are often mentioned together and share many similarities, there are subtle differences worth noting. Both types of windows utilize laminated, impact-resistant glass designed to provide storm protection; however, the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, depending on regional preferences or marketing.

Hurricane windows are specifically rated and tested to withstand hurricane-force winds and the impact of flying debris during hurricane season. They are designed to meet stringent storm protection building codes in hurricane-prone areas, ensuring they provide superior protection against severe weather conditions.

Impact windows, on the other hand, feature impact-resistant glass that not only provides storm protection but also enhances home security by resisting break-ins. This makes impact windows a versatile choice for homeowners in hurricane-prone regions seeking enhanced security, lower energy costs, hurricane protection, and noise insulation.

In terms of performance, both impact windows and hurricane windows offer superior storm protection compared to standard windows or traditional storm windows. They reduce the risk of glass breakage and protect the home’s interior from wind and water damage. However, impact windows often come with additional benefits such as improved energy efficiency and noise reduction, thanks to their multi-layered glass construction.

Installation and Maintenance Considerations: How Do Hurricane and Impact Windows Differ and What Are Their Similarities?

When it comes to installing hurricane windows and impact windows, both types require professional installation to ensure they fit securely within the existing window frames or as full replacement windows. Quality windows in both categories are designed to resist shattering, providing enhanced safety and protection during severe weather events. However, there are some nuances in their installation and maintenance that homeowners should be aware of.

This is not just about installing hurricane shutters. Both hurricane and impact windows replace existing windows by fitting into the same openings. However, depending on the product and the home's structure, some modifications to the existing window frame may be necessary to accommodate reinforced frames or thicker glass panes. Proper installation is crucial for both types to maintain their rated performance against hurricane-force winds and flying debris, as well as to enhance curb appeal.

In terms of maintenance, hurricane and impact windows are similar. Both are made with laminated glass panes that not only resist shattering but also block harmful UV rays, helping to protect your home's interior from sun damage and fading. Cleaning these windows is straightforward, requiring only regular washing with non-abrasive cleaners to maintain clarity and performance.

Where they differ slightly is in their frame materials and design features, which can affect long-term upkeep. Some hurricane windows may utilize heavier-duty frames explicitly designed for extreme wind resistance, which may require occasional inspection and maintenance to ensure the seals and fasteners remain intact. Impact windows, while also robust, often emphasize multi-layered glass technology and may include additional coatings for UV protection, potentially requiring less frequent frame maintenance.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

Protect your home with high-quality hurricane and impact-resistant windows designed to withstand shattering and harmful UV rays. Enhancing your home’s safety and energy efficiency before the next hurricane season should be your top priority.
Contact us now for a free estimate and discover how upgrading your existing windows with durable, storm-resistant glass panes can provide peace of mind during severe weather. Don’t wait—secure your home’s windows today!