The Advantages of Hurricane- Resistant Windows In Florida
In recent years, impact windows are becoming a must-have for homeowners in Florida. The incredible year-round warm weather along with beautiful palm trees and native vegetation are the hallmarks of living in Florida. However, every year the peace in this tropical paradise is interrupted by tropical storms and hurricanes. The construction methods have been improved to reduce the risk of storm-related damages. The changes in the construction codes came to effect after the devastating damages caused by Hurricane Andrew in 1992. The installation of impact doors and windows are not part of the codes and are offered at an extra charge by home builders.
Why You Should Install Impact Windows
• Hurricane and Tropical Storms – Florida homeowners have two options to combat hurricanes and tropical storms. Installing the old-fashion accordion shutters is less costly but not very user-friendly. Accordion or metal shutters don’t offer as many benefits as impact windows.
• Impact Windows Security - While protection against storms is the reason for installing impact windows there are many other additional benefits. The installation of impact windows is a security shield covering all doors and windows. Most impact windows are equipped to withstand winds up to 175 miles per hour. This resistance against breakage is also a deterrent for intruders to waste their time trying to break in.
• No Need for Shutter Installation – Unlike hurricane shutters, the homeowners do not have to secure any doors or windows once the impact windows are installed. They can use valuable time to better prepare for the storm.
• Lower Insurance Premium – The insurance premiums are calculated based on the severity of the risk. Installing impact windows and doors lowers the risk of damages to the structure and content of homes. The insurance companies recognize the lower risk level and award homeowners with a discount on their premiums.
• Energy Efficiency of Impact Windows – The impact windows save on energy consumption by simply working as a strong barrier between the outside and inside of a house. The impact windows lower the penetration of cold or hot weather from the outside while shielding the inside temperature from leaking to the outside. Impact windows could lower the electricity consumption by 10% to 25%. This saving will pay for the higher cost of the impact windows in a long run.
• UV protection of Impact Windows – Impact windows offer excellent level protection against harmful UV lights. This is a built-in feature in impact windows. UV Light can cause damages to fabrics, carpets, draperies, and even artwork.
• Impact Windows and Noise Reduction – Hurricane-resistant impact windows are also great in reducing the noise level. This is achieved through securely bonding two glass panes to the frame with argon gas in between.
