If you live in a region that is prone to getting bad storms, it can be extremely stressful when that season rolls around. Boarding up your windows and praying that they do not break has become the norm for many people. Fortunately, there are things that you can do to help secure your home during these bad storms and ensure that your home’s windows are protected.
You have likely heard about hurricane windows and are wondering what they are and if they are worth the investment for you to make. They are quite the investment and can become pricey quickly, but they can protect your home very well, especially during storm season.
Let’s take a more in-depth look at hurricane windows.
What Are Hurricane Windows?
First and foremost, let’s get an understanding of what hurricane windows are. Hurricane-proof windows are windows that are specifically designed to provide protection during large storms such as hurricanes. They are rated up to 200 mile per hour winds. That means that these windows can withstand a Category 5 storm.
Hurricane windows are made from glass that is impact resistant and made with a protective layer of either EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) or PVB (polyvinyl butyral). This protective film protects the glass in the windows from objects that may slam into it. While they are resistant, it does not mean that they will never break, so it is always a possibility. With that said, if the window does crack from impact, it is designed to remain in the frame and not shatter all over the place, thus creating a safer environment for you.
Are Hurricane Windows Really That Important?
Yes, they can be. If your windows are currently damaged or dated, you may simply be waiting for them to fail before you take the plunge to get new windows. While this may seem like a cost-effective idea, it can actually cost you more money in the long run.
Should you attempt to go through a hurricane with damaged or old windows could mean that the pressure changes outside cause the windows to crack and shatter. This can additionally cause pressure changes within your home from the blown out windows that lead to roof damage and foundation cracks.
Having hurricane windows can prevent this from happening and provide you with the best possible protection during a storm with strong winds.
What Are Some of the Benefits of Hurricane Windows?
There are numerous benefits of having hurricane windows installed on your home. While the initial investment may be quite large, it will pay off in the end and could save you from having your home destroyed in a large storm. Here are some of the main benefits they can provide you with.
Protection During a Hurricane
Pretty obvious, right? Hurricane protection is probably the biggest driving factor behind choosing to have hurricane windows installed. These windows are much stronger than traditional glass windows as they feature a specialized glass and coating to keep them from breaking and shattering. Hurricane glass makes your windows stronger and allows them to take a little bit of a beating.
Solar Protection
Since hurricane windows are made from a multiple layered glass, they offer you solar protection as well. This means that your furniture and home are protected from the UV rays that would otherwise find their way in. It also means that furniture is less likely to become damaged or faded due to the sun’s UV rays. Most hurricane windows are rated to block out 99 percent or more of the sun’s UV rays.
Noise Reduction
Another benefit of having hurricane windows is that it will greatly reduce noise. That means when a loud car goes by, the outside noise is reduced greatly. That means no more waking up to the sound of lawn mowers on a Sunday morning or a firetruck passing by at all hours of the night.
Reduced Insurance Costs
Having new windows in general can help to reduce your insurance costs, but especially when you install hurricane windows. If you want to know whether you will receive a discount or not, give your insurance carrier a call.
Security and Safety
Most burglaries happen through a door or window. Since hurricane glass is stronger than traditional window glass, burglars will have a harder time gaining entry into your home through a hurricane window.
Improve Home’s Value
New hurricane windows can improve the resale value of your home, which is why they are a recommended upgrade. Not only will it lower your insurance costs but it will also lower your overall electric bill as well.
How Much Will Hurricane Windows Cost Me?
The average cost to have hurricane windows installed on a home can range from $2,500 to $15,000 with a median average cost of around $8,000. Each window can range in price from $80 to $450 per window. The larger the window, the higher the cost for the window.
Are Hurricane Windows Worth It?
Only you can answer this question; however, they are usually worth it for individuals who live in coastal areas that see a lot of storms or the potential to see strong storms. These types of windows can help protect you and your family in more ways than just a hurricane, so they usually are worth the investment for those who do have them installed.
What is an Impact Resistant Window?
Impact resistant windows are often confused with hurricane windows and the terms are used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Impact windows utilize a heavy-duty frame that contains an impact-resistant glass that is laminated and has an additional coating on it. These windows are designed to withstand impact from objects and high winds. Impact windows are rated to withstand sustained winds of around 140 miles per hour.
Installing Hurricane Windows on Your Home
If you determine that hurricane windows are worth the investment for you and your home, working with a licensed and experienced window installation company is key. They will be able to guide you and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about your windows. Remember, it is vital to work with reputable companies as your county or city permits will depend on it and your insurance company may not cover any damage done should you not use someone licensed and insured.