Are impact-resistant windows worth the cost?

Having hurricane rated impact windows installed can actually save you money over time, which can significantly defray the upfront costs. Because your home will be better protected against severe weather, you may enjoy significant discounts on your homeowners' insurance premiums.

Will impact windows increase home value?

Impact windows can have a positive impact on exterior design, energy efficiency, and increased security. As a result, they can make your home more appealing to future buyers. They are an excellent long-term investment that property owners often see a sizable increase in their home's value over time.

Should I buy impact windows?

In addition to storm protection, impact windows and doors are also excellent insulators. They block heat transfer, so you not only save money but stay cooler in the hot summer months. They also block UV rays, which can prevent damage to fabrics. And block noise, too—so your home is quieter.

How long do impact resistant windows last?

Many impact windows are rated to function properly from 10 to 25 years, depending on the brand and materials. At the 10-year mark, it starts to become more important to evaluate your windows, knowing that they are reaching an age where they may soon need to be replaced.

Are hurricane windows worth the investment?

Are impact windows worth the money? Impact windows are oftentimes worth the money. Though they're typically more costly than standard windows, the impact options can reduce the price of your home insurance and help prevent costly home damages caused by storms.

Are Hurricane-Proof Windows Worth Cost?

How much money does impact windows save on insurance?

They are typically made with double or even triple pane glass and, as an added bonus, they're naturally energy-efficient. Depending on where you live in Florida, these can help you potentially save anywhere from 8% to 15% on your insurance policy.

Which is better impact or hurricane windows?

However, choosing impact windows is typically the better choice. A standard hurricane window will be able to withstand the extreme pressure generated by hurricane-force winds, but it will shatter if struck by airborne debris. Impact windows are constructed with a durable laminate between the glass panes.

Can impact windows withstand Category 5?

Installing these windows significantly lowers your chances of major damage to your home. Hurricane impact windows have advanced to the point where they can withstand Category 5 wind conditions, and the debris that goes with it. So next time a hurricane hits your neighborhood, don't be caught unprotected.

Do you still need shutters with impact windows?

With impact hurricane windows and doors you do not need to install and remove hurricane shutters every time a hurricane is coming; you just have to lock your windows and doors.

Can impact windows be broken into?

The simple answer is yes. Glass is glass and glass breaks. And because impact windows are made from glass yes can break. That is because they are impact-resistant and not impact-proof.

What to look for when buying impact windows?

What is the best impact window brand?

What is the best thickness for impact windows?

Impact windows use thick laminated glass and sturdy framing materials, which result in a decrease in external noise by as much as 40%. Their overall thickness ranges from 7/16” to 9/16”, as compared to typical single pane glass measuring an average of 1/8”.

Do impact windows reduce heat?

Impact-resistant windows have inherent insulation properties that prevent air leaks and keep temperatures in check during winter and summer. The multi-layer construction minimizes the amount of solar heat through the windows, which reduces strain on the air conditioning.

Do impact windows reduce noise?

Impact-resistant windows are not soundproof, but they can minimize unwanted noise up to 65%. For an additional sound barrier, hang thick draperies or interior window shutters.

What has the biggest impact on home value?

Which is better hurricane shutters or impact-resistant glass?

Hurricane shutters don't offer the best protection against debris and high winds. So if you are looking for the ultimate in storm protection, you can't go wrong with hurricane impact resisting windows which will give your home the perfect protection against flying debris, strong winds, and other perils.

What wind speed are impact windows rated for?

Impact windows are able to withstand all wind-blown debris, forced entry attempts, and wind speeds of up to 175 mph. This is the equivalent wind speed of a Category 5 hurricane.

Can firefighters break impact windows?

But while they're made to protect residents, the extra strong layers of glass might be doing the opposite if rescue workers need to get into a home. Also known as impact-resistant windows, these special windows are too strong for firefighters to use normal methods of entry, such as using a ladder to break the glass.

Can a bullet break hurricane proof windows?

Bullet-resistant glass is often thicker than impact windows, as it doesn't reflect bullets, but it absorbs the energy to embed the shell within the glass. On the other hand, hurricane proof windows use laminated materials to stop projectiles. The glass comes treated to resist shattering - not stop a bullet.

Do I need impact resistant windows in Florida?

The Florida Building Code (FBC) requires windows to be impact-resistant or protected from impact if located within one mile of the coast where the design wind speed is 130 mph or greater and anywhere the design wind speed is 140 mph and greater.

What is the best material for impact windows?

The most cost-effective impact window glazing option is tinted laminated glass. Additionally, laminated glass or insulated laminated glass with a LoE coating would deliver even higher energy savings. While both options do cost a little more, they offer the best energy efficiency protection on the market.

Who makes the best impact resistant windows?

What is the safest type of window?

The casement window is typically considered the most secure type of window because, with no way to turn the crank from the outside, there is very little opportunity for an intruder to enter your home through the window if you are sure to close and lock it.

Are impact windows more expensive than hurricane windows?

First, hurricane shutters are a much more affordable option than installing impact resistant windows. Hurricane shutters come in varying wind and impact ratings, depending on their size, shape, and more.