Do you still need hurricane shutters with impact windows?

Most older homes have windows that do not latch, close, or operate properly which can be a nuisance and could also be dangerous in hurricanes; even with hurricane shutters on. With impact hurricane windows and doors you do not need hurricane shutters.

Do you need hurricane shutters if you have impact glass?

Hurricane Window Shutters

Although hurricane shutters can be used over any standard window glass as well, it's better to install them over the impact windows, to ensure 100% protection from hurricanes and storm debris.

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.

Do I need hurricane shutters if I have hurricane windows?

The best form of hurricane protection for your home is hurricane shutters with impact resistant glass underneath. If your area is threatened with severe storms frequently, consider installing these together to achieve the ultimate level of protection from flying debris.

Are impact windows the same as hurricane windows?

What's the difference between impact windows and hurricane windows? To be honest, not a lot, since the terms are used interchangeably in the industry. People may call impact windows "hurricane-rated impact windows" or "storm windows" but they generally mean the same thing.

Making the Choice Between Impact Windows

Can impact windows withstand Category 5?

Hurricane impact windows have advanced to the point where they can withstand Category 5 wind conditions, and the debris that goes with it.

Are hurricane impact windows worth it?

Impact windows do cost more than traditional windows, but they very well may pay for themselves by preventing extensive and expensive damage to your home. They are also more efficient, saving on energy costs, and can help significantly increase the value of your home and reduce your homeowners' insurance costs.

Do you really need hurricane shutters?

Hurricane-force winds can lead to a tremendous amount of pressure against your windows. Without hurricane shutters or impact-resistant glass, your windows may shatter as a result of this pressure, bringing in rain and debris that can cause significant damage to your home.

Will hurricane impact windows break?

Put simply, yes, impact windows can break. That is because they are impact-resistant and not impact-proof. Impact glass is designed to resist heavy blows, hence it became popular as windshields for vehicles. Like a car's windshield, however, it can break when struck by excessive forces.

Are hurricane shutters worth the cost?

That's where hurricane shutters prove their worth. Installing this type of heavy-duty style shutters is more than adequate protection and will not only reduce the risk of injury from broken glass and debris but will also strengthen and protect the interior of your home from strong winds.

How long do impact windows last?

Like any product, windows have a life expectancy. 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 accordion shutters cheaper than impact windows?

Upfront cost savings – Accordion shutters are less expensive to install than impact glass windows.

What is the ROI on impact windows?

ROI For Impact Windows

Still, impact windows do offer one of the highest returns on investment in the home improvement industry. Homeowners can expect to see between 80% and 86% of the original price of installing impact windows reflected in their selling price when they list their home!

Do hurricane shutters increase home value?

Increasing Resale Value

Installing hurricane shutters can significantly increase the resale value of your property. Potential buyers recognize the investment and care taken to maintain safety and security.

What should I look for when buying an impact window?

When choosing impact windows, look for high-performing features such as laminated insulating glass, heat-reducing glass tints, and hi-performance low-E selections. In addition to impact- resistance, these windows also offer the benefits of reduced energy bills and protect furnishings, draperies and artwork from fading.

Does impact glass break?

In plain terms, yes, impact glass can break. However, as these glass structures receive impact, the inner layer of PVB keeps the structure from breaking down—it keeps the window standing even though the glass shatters. There are varying types of impact glass.

How much can hurricane impact windows withstand?

Impact Windows Are Just for Looks

Ultimately, hurricane-resistant windows are capable of withstanding winds of up to 200 miles per hour. If flying debris does hit a window, the added protection will keep the glass from breaking up into large sharp pieces.

Are there different grades of impact windows?

There are a few different types of impact windows, which we will discuss later in this article, but it's important to know that the main differences come in style, size, material and degree of protection. A number of standard tests are utilized in order to determine the level of impact resistance they provide.

Which impact window is best?

At what wind speed should you put up hurricane shutters?

How much protection do storm shutters provide? Hurricanes Hugo and Andrew were instrumental in an industry-wide upgrade of the standards for storm shutters. Standard building codes require a product to withstand 110 MPH winds.

Are impact windows required in Florida?

The Florida Building Code (FBC) requires windows to be impact-resistant or protected if located within one mile of the coast where the wind speed is 110 mph or greater. (Of course, even if your home is not located in this area, this may be a good idea.)

Do hurricane shutters keep water out?

One effective way to hurricane-prep your windows is by installing storm shutters—a layer of metal specifically designed to keep water out and stop your windows from breaking during a storm.

Do impact windows reduce insurance?

Saving Money With Impact Windows

Impact windows lower homeowner's insurance because they are designed to resist breaking when struck by wind driven debris. They are typically made with double or even triple pane glass and as an added bonus, they are naturally energy-efficient.

What is the cost of impact windows in Florida?

Average Price Of Impact Windows

Sliding glass doors have an average cost of $6140, with 70% of prices falling between $4200-$8230. These price ranges assume white, vinyl frames with no grids, which is the most common configuration in Florida's hurricane prone regions. They also include materials and labor.

How much do hurricane impact sliding glass doors cost?

The cost can range anywhere from $300 to $1,100 on average. The installation costs for hurricane proof sliding doors can be anywhere between $600 to over $2,000, depending on the project's complexity and local rates.