Difference Between Hurricane Windows and Impact Windows

Should I Choose Hurricane Windows Or Impact Windows

While the names might be different, the functionality of both hurricane and impact windows remains the same. Impact windows provide security from unwanted hurricane exposure, allowing homeowners to enjoy their homes year-round without fear of severe weather damaging their properties. Impact windows are usually made from two sheets of tempered glass. The thickness of these two layers will dictate how much outside influence most likely could penetrate the outer layer, thus compromising your home's structural integrity and efficiency.

Hurricane windows have been around for a while now. The window type is commonly referred to as casement or sash hurricane windows. The sash generally slides up and down to open and close the louvers. In older homes, the sash was located above the windows. Nonetheless, in newer homes, most modern interior windows feature a sash or interior sliding glass door for the most efficient and energy-saving operation.

Hurricane windows can either be hard-wired or soft-wired. A hard-wired hurricane windows system uses a single-hung or double-hung construction. Single-hung construction means that one frame is placed on the exterior wall next to your window, while the second frame rests directly on the first frame. Double-hung construction entails two single-hung frames resting on each other with a space in-between for the hanging rods. Are you looking for hurricane-resistant windows that offer more storm protection or want a simpler solution? The windows can be customized to fit any modern room, a single-hung or double-hung casement windows are the perfect options.

Investing in Hurricane Windows

Whether you're planning on having a new home built or shopping for replacement windows, there are a variety of hurricane windows available for different kinds of design requirements and budgets. The impact windows are offered in a range of styles, sizes, and materials as well as different impact resistance levels. The following article will briefly discuss the differences between hurricane windows and impact windows to help homeowners make an informed decision about their window needs. As always, it is strongly recommended that you contact us regarding the building codes in your county to verify compliance before making any changes to your existing home.

Best Hurricane Windows

When shopping for hurricane windows, you need to consider a few factors. To start with, let’s explore which materials to choose for your home's hurricane windows. For your money, the best materials are those that are resistant to strong wind gusts while offering better insulation than most other materials. Since uPVC is very affordable, you can find good-quality hurricane windows that are cost-effective and last a lifetime.

While searching for hurricane windows that are already treated to prevent wind penetration, there are several options available. These include solid impact windows. These windows are coated with a layer of ultra-light yet incredibly durable and lightweight metal. Another option will be impact windows with a salt and form compound. These windows are comprised of a combination of salt and form created with a high-grade abrasive. This compound will not only add additional strength to impact windows but will also resist damage from salt spray. If you do not have access to a salt spray resistant form of this type of impact window, consider investing in hurricane windows with sashes that have a wind block or wind cushion built-in instead.

As mentioned earlier, many people who live in areas less prone to the hurricane don't worry too much about impact windows. There's simply no way for the hurricane-force winds to reach the glass during a storm. However, living in Florida means a higher risk of hurricanes and residents should make sure their home is equipped with hurricane-resistant windows. The experience has proven that many storms have the potential to damage your windows more than they would damage the structure of the home. Also, there is a possibility of roofs being lifted by hurricane winds penetrating through broken windows. Therefore, it would be better to invest in hurricane windows today before it is too late.

It is important to note that the level of protection depends on if the hurricane windows are correctly installed. Spending money on securing homes with hurricane windows will pay for itself in the long run. Hiring the right company is as important as the quality of hurricane windows.