What is the 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.

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 hurricane impact windows worth the cost?

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.

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.

Differences Between Hurricane Impact Resistant Glass | FHIA Remodeling

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.

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.

How much should I pay for impact windows?

Average Cost to Install an Impact Window

But on average, expect to pay an average of $8,000 for installation. The range is quite expensive based on the service, material and professional you choose, but it can be between $2,600 and $14,000.

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.

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 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 should I look for when buying an impact window?

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.

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.

How much are hurricane impact windows installed?

Impact Hurricane Windows Cost – Itemized Window and Installation Costs. The average installed cost of hurricane windows is about $1,285 per window for the most popular size. Hurricane window cost starts at about $425 for small, fixed windows and exceeds $2,400 for large windows that open.

How long does it take to install impact windows?

Once we have all of your impact windows and doors in our warehouse we will call you to schedule the installation at your convenience. Depending upon the size of your home or condo the installation of the windows and doors could take one to three days to complete.

Which impact window is best?

What are the different types of impact windows?

Can you install your own impact windows?

While it's possible to install them yourself, this is one of those instances where it would be best to call the professionals. The eye of a major hurricane is not the place you want to be when you discover a mistake.

Can you claim for new windows on house insurance?

Can I claim for new windows on home insurance? The rule of thumb with insurance companies is they won't cover damage that is self-inflicted or caused by neglect. If you've had low-quality windows installed, causing your house to get draughty, replacing them won't be covered by your insurance.

Is impact glass hurricane rated?

People may call impact windows "hurricane-rated impact windows" or "storm windows" but they generally mean the same thing.

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.

Are impact windows single pane?

Impact and double-pane windows are stronger than conventional single-pane windows. Because they incorporate more than one pane, they're more energy efficient. Heat loss is less when the weather is cold, and heat gain is less when the weather is warm.