The weather has a significant impact on how you construct structures. Hurricanes and other storms are a constant threat to Florida. You must install extra-strong windows to shield your home from rain and severe winds.
An average hurricane can cause extensive devastation. However, you can avoid storm damage by equipping your home with high-impact and hurricane windows in Pinellas County, FL. Here’s what you need to know about hurricane shutters vs. impact-resistant windows and how to choose which is best for you.
Hurricane Windows
Hurricane windows are designed to reduce the likelihood of glass breaking in the presence of strong winds. One or more laminated PVB layers serve as the structural support for a hurricane window. As a result, the windows are more malleable and can flex slightly in heavy winds without breaking. In addition, the lamination retains the glass together if a hurricane window breaks due to a strike, preventing the glass from splintering into hazardous bits as it falls.
Features
- Windproof and flexible
- No shattering broken
- Reasonably inexpensive and quite practical
Pros
- They increase the value of the property.
- They offer additional home security.
- PVB used in the construction of hurricane windows offers protection against UV rays.
- Their design is energy efficient.
- They offer around-the-clock protection against hurricane damage.
Cons
- Hurricane windows purchase and installation is an expensive project.
- DIY installation can only work if you are a professional.
- Some types of hurricane windows block visibility.
High Impact Windows
High-impact windows are made of impact-resistant glass, a byproduct of the process used to create safety glass. In addition, these windows feature more layers of glass and laminate than hurricane windows, which typically only have one or two layers of laminate PVB. As a result, impact windows can endure being knocked over by a wind despite being heavier, less flexible, and thicker than hurricane windows.
Features
- The glass and laminate layers strengthen it
- Resistance to collision and wind
- Heavy-duty window frames that reduce noise and save energy
Pros
- They are energy efficient
- They are semi-noise blockers
- They increase insurance premium discounts
- They are easy to install
Cons
- They are expensive to buy
- They replace your entire existing window
Impact Windows Vs. Hurricane Windows
Let’s examine the differences between impact and hurricane windows. The windshields of cars are constructed using impact windows. To prevent the glass from shattering into bits, a layer that doesn’t break easily is placed on top of the glass. Otherwise, glass shards would fly, leaving a sizable hole in the area. The glass will not fly off or leave a massive hole, but it may break if you apply enough pressure. Impact windows may protect people from flying glass shards.
On the other hand, hurricane windows have multiple layers. Manufacturers use glass and PVB plastic in some constructions. The plastic layers sandwiched between the layers of glass prevent the windows from breaking. The plastic layers won’t also break when the debris collides with the windows at dangerously high speeds during a hurricane. However, even if the outermost layer of glass were to shatter, the door or window would remain stationary.
Now that you have all the information you require, you can begin looking for new or replacement windows for your home. Contact us immediately if you need help deciding whether to purchase high-impact or hurricane windows in Pinellas County, FL.
