Reasons Windows Fail During Hurricanes

Hurricane seasons can cause billions of dollars in damage. Even when certain areas that are hit receive insurance and other aid to recover from their losses, the payments can’t cover it all. And they certainly can’t replace family heirlooms, picture albums, and other treasures. There’s no way to make a home completely disaster-proof, but Pinellas County impact resistant windows are a good start. Talk to a window expert about the options as you read through some of the reasons why windows fail during hurricane-like storms.  

Windows Aren’t Certified As Impact-Resistant 

When you put replacement windows in your home, you need to ensure that you get windows that are impact-resistant certified. Older homes don’t usually feature hurricane impact windows and not all windows that you can use to replace older windows are certified. Certified windows have gone through huge levels of testing and can withstand both large and small missiles. Sure, covering non-certified windows with plywood can help some, but it certainly doesn’t protect a home like impact resistant windows can.  

Water Leaks Around The Windows 

No windows last forever and even if you have hurricane impact resistant windows, they might eventually need repairs or replacement. When the storms rage, if the windows are no longer tight in their frames and against the house, they can leak. These leaks cause huge damage when the rain is pounding down. Water leaks can lead to other failures as well.  

Improper Installation 

While impact resistant windows are guaranteed to withstand a lot more than average windows, they aren’t going to be nearly worth their value if they are improperly installed. Some homeowners think they can install windows DIY style, but if they aren’t placed properly, they are at a much greater risk—especially during storm season. Whole windows can blow inward if they aren’t set up right and the whole unit could be a loss, as well as much of the house, during a storm.  

Tile Roofing Dangers 

When looking at home improvements, impact resistant windows are important, but so is roofing material. Tile roofing is more of a threat to windows than regular shingles. Shingles can blow off as well, but when they do, they aren’t as much of a danger to the windows as a tile. It only takes one heavy tile to break one window to let the hurricane winds into a home.  

These are just a few things that cause windows to fail during hurricane season. If you are worried about the state of your windows, it might be time to upgrade to Pinellas County impact resistant windows. Get windows that will give you peace of mind and protect your home at the same time. When you have questions or want to get an in-home consultation on the options, contact Clearwater Window & Door Inc at (727) 559-7007. Our professionals want your home to be as safe as possible every season of the year. Stop by and see some samples in person at 2025 Gulf to Bay Blvd, Pinellas County 33765.