If you live in a hurricane-prone area, or even if you don’t, installing impact windows is a wise investment. But how do you choose the right ones for your home?
Look for the following features. These will help you make the best choice for your situation:
Impact Resistance
We’ve all seen the horrific images of post-storm debris slamming into homes or wind-driven projectiles tearing through windows. Impact-resistant windows are the best way to protect your home from these risks.
Impact windows Fort Lauderdale feature thicker glass and durable laminates that resist shattering, providing a strong defense against hurricanes, tornadoes, and other severe weather. They can also reduce outside noise, making them a great choice for families living in busy or noisy neighborhoods.
You can find impact-rated windows in single-hung, double-hung, casement, sliders, and bay/bow styles. The frame style is a personal preference, so choose the style that complements your home’s aesthetics. In addition, you should make sure the windows and doors you select meet local requirements.
For example, you should look for windows with a high R-value and low U-value to ensure optimal energy efficiency. This can save you money on your energy bills over time. Also, it’s a good idea to work with a company familiar with local codes and regulations so you can be confident the windows are installed correctly.
Energy Efficiency
We’ve all seen the pictures of 2x4s speared through a window, furniture ripped off walls, and belongings blown into the street. Impact windows protect against this damage, save property owners money on insurance premiums, increase resale value, and offer protection from harmful UV rays that can fade window treatments and furniture.
When choosing impact windows for the home, energy efficiency is also a key factor. Impact windows with thicker glass can reduce cooling and heating costs. They reduce heat transmission and keep cool air in warm weather. Hiring a reputable company like Hawker Joinery, can help you achieve high energy efficiency that will save you a lot of money in the long term.
When choosing impact windows, look for ones with an energy rating and choose frames made of wood or a combination of aluminum and wood (referred to as a “wood-clad” frame). Wood and aluminum are natural insulators and help regulate your home’s temperature during extreme weather conditions. Also, look for options that are easy to operate without needing a key or special tool.
Low Maintenance
In addition to preventing wind-borne debris from crashing through a window and potentially causing structural damage, impact windows protect against the vacuum effect of broken glass. This means furniture, artwork and other possessions won’t be sucked into the home.
You can also choose impact windows with available UV protection coatings to reduce the sun’s damaging effects on rugs, furniture and other indoor items. Additionally, many insurance companies offer a discounted rate for homes with impact windows and doors installed by a licensed contractor.
When choosing impact windows, be sure to take the time to compare manufacturers and models that meet your specific requirements. Remember, this is a significant investment, and you want to ensure you get the right product at the best price. A great place to start is by scheduling in-home estimates from a few reputable contractors. They’ll bring samples and clearly explain their warranties so you can be confident that your project is in good hands.
Warranty
Impact windows are an excellent choice for safeguarding your home against storm damage. These hurricane windows have undergone meticulous testing to ensure they can endure high winds, flying debris, and the pressure of hurricanes. Moreover, they can help you save money. Keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer can save hundreds of dollars annually.
However, when choosing impact windows, it’s important to consult an expert with experience evaluating your home’s unique needs and providing installation services. They can help you choose impact-rated window options that meet your needs while meeting local building codes and ensuring that you qualify for any rebate programs that may be available to you.
Additionally, professional installers can assess your home’s unique needs and ensure that the impact windows are installed properly, maximizing their functionality and longevity. Moreover, they can assist you with filing any required hurricane and wind mitigation insurance claims.
