Is there a difference between impact windows and hurricane windows?

Hurricane Windows & Impact Windows Are Not the Same

To be considered a hurricane window, a product simply needs to provide a certain level of wind resistance. An impact window, on the other hand, will offer wind resistance as well as protection from impacts.

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.

Are impact windows good for hurricanes?

The Best Choice: Impact Windows from CGI

The decision has been made: impact windows are the best choice for any home or commercial structure in an area frequented by hurricanes or tornadoes. Next, it's important to choose the right impact window manufacturer to ensure that the windows are strong, durable and will last.

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.

Are impact resistant windows hurricane proof?

Let's be clear: impact windows do not prevent hurricanes, but they do offer protection from one. They are tested to withstand impact and strong winds, which some would argue makes them a far better option than other types of hurricane protection.

How to Choose Hurricane Window Protection | Ask This Old House

How can you tell if a window is impact glass?

Watermarks are etched into the glass and are a surefire way to tell if a window has impact glass. If you can't find the watermark, the window label should give you the info you need.

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.

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.

How much do hurricane impact windows cost?

How Much Do Hurricane Windows Cost? HomeAdvisor states that the average cost of installing hurricane-proof windows on an entire home ranges from $2,449 and $13,395, or $7,922 on average. That comes to about $55 per square foot of window. Each window, depending on size and customization, ranges between $90 and $400.

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.

Can impact windows break?

And because impact windows are made from glass yes can break. That is because they are impact-resistant and not impact-proof. Impact glass is designed to resist heavy blows, and for this reason, it has become the mainstay in windshields for cars, trucks, and busses and more recently houses windows.

How can you tell if your windows are hurricane proof?

-Check for Labels

Impact resistant glass from hurricane windows does not often have a permanent mark of this kind. You can also check for a temporary label on the glass that might outline the thickness, the manufacturing date, and the place of creation. This label will tell you if it's a hurricane window or not.

How thick should impact windows be?

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”.

What are the different types of impact windows?

Do impact windows come with screens?

Do impact windows and doors come with screens? Most impact windows and sliding doors come with screens included in the price; however, this is not always the case.

What wind speed are impact windows rated for?

Category 1: 74-95 mph. Category 2: 96-110 mph. Category 3: 111-129 mph. Category 4: 130-156 mph.

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.

Do impact windows reduce noise?

Install Impact-Resistant Windows

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.

How much value does impact Windows add?

ENERGY STAR estimates that if you are replacing single-pane windows with double-pane high impact windows, you could see savings between $126 to $465 per year in energy costs. If you are upgrading your existing double-pane windows to a high impact product, the savings are still estimated to be $27 to $111 per year.

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.

Are hurricane shutters cheaper 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.

What should I look for when buying an impact window?

How hard is it to break hurricane windows?

Hurricane impact windows are made to resist breaking no matter if the source is a piece of wood blown by a storm or a burglar trying to break it with a hammer. While not indestructible, the heavy glass and layered design help withstand breaking.

Are hurricane windows single pane?

As hurricane-resistant windows have two or more panes of glass bonded together, the reflections visible are always more than one, unlike single-pane windows. The number of images seen in the window equals the number of glass panes.

Can double pane windows withstand a hurricane?

Double pane windows include two pieces of glass with an air gap in between. Advantages include better insulation, noise reduction, and UV control. However, double pane windows are not designed to withstand windborne debris and should be protected just like single pane glass when a hurricane is threatening.