As a Florida resident you know how devastating hurricanes can be, so the responsible step to take is to protect your property the best way possible and with time in advance so you are not taken by surprise by mother nature. You may be familiar with the terms “impact windows” and “hurricane shutters” but today we will dive deeper into the differences so you can make the choice that works best for you.
For more information on this topic, see the Redfin article we were featured in: What Are Storm Windows and Does Your House Need Them? | Redfin
What are impact windows?
Impact-resistant or, more commonly, impact windows, are windows made out of shatter-resistant glass that combine heavy-duty frames and a special silicone glazing process to keep the glass from breaking away from its frame. You can choose from different materials and finishes depending on your preference and budget.
Impact windows are an excellent investment because they only require a one-time installation and once a storm arrives, all you have to do is sit back, relax, and wait for the storm to leave town. The best part is that this kind of investment can lead to home-owner insurance discounts.
Another great benefit of impact windows is a thin, metallic coating applied to the surface of glass referred to as Low-E or Low Emissivity which, basically, reflects and re-radiates heat energy into or out of a home, depending on climate conditions. This saves you money on your energy bill!
What about hurricane shutters?
Hurricane shutters are used to prevent windows from being broken by flying objects during a storm. They require deployment right before a storm strikes and provide no visibility during a hurricane. So why would you choose them? Although impact windows are always a better investment, hurricane shutters are a classic for a reason. We recommend these if you are in the middle of remodeling and still deciding about the final touches of your home, if you need quick protection against a storm, or if you're on a very tight budget.
We offer different materials and basic colors to choose from and the time to install them is faster than impact windows.
So if you need protection against a hurricane, whether with impact windows or shutters, we are here to help and to find the best option for you.