What Are Impact Windows, and How Do They Work?

December 6, 2023
December 17, 2020
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Floridians are aware of the threats posed by hurricanes. Whether you’ve lived in Palm Beach County all your life or you’re a new transplant, you may be wondering if hurricane windows for your home are worth the investment. You may not be aware of the atmospheric changes in pressure taking place outside your house during a severe tropical storm. However, a broken window will quickly make this abundantly clear in the form of blowing debris and costly damages to the inside of your home. The experts at Palm Beach Hurricane Windows are here to explain what impact windows are and how they work, so you can learn what to expect when you call us for all your hurricane window installation needs.

How Are Impact Glass Windows Different from Other Types?

Laminated glass was used in the 1930s to make automobile windshields more resistant to cracks and impacts caused by flying road debris. Today’s impact glass windows are made either using laminated glass that’s clear and shatter-resistant or by adding a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) in between the panes of glass. PVB is also clear and rubber-like, acting as a buffer while keeping the glass panes intact even if they’re shattered. Even if your impact glass windows do break, they won’t shatter shards of glass everywhere. You’ll likely just notice a spiderweb crack formation, such as on your windshield. In addition to the laminated glass or PVB, impact windows and doors are also superior at withstanding storm damage due to their sturdy vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass frames. Hurricane window frames are not likely to break, but they can bend. Adding weather stripping around your hurricane windows is a wise investment because it adds an extra layer of protection against water leaks caused by heavy rains.

Why Is It Better to Use Impact Resistant Windows Vs. Boards?

In the past, many people put wooden boards over their window replacement services to make them more hurricane-proof. Perhaps you’re familiar with the idea of hurricane shutters that are brought out just before a hurricane hits. The problem with boarding up or shuttering your home is it can be very labor-intensive, requiring tremendous time and effort while the danger fast approaches. When you have hurricane resistant windows already installed, you’ll enjoy peace of mind so you can focus your time and energy elsewhere.

Hurricane windows were thought of as commercial-based solutions used on multi-story buildings and high-rise condos or offices. However, home protection measures have become more sophisticated over time. More homeowners than ever are adding hurricane windows to their residences today. In fact, many state and county building codes require buildings to use impact resistant windows and doors as they’re being built or renovated to minimize the damages caused by hurricanes. Today’s impact glass windows have been tested and guaranteed to withstand even the strongest storm elements. Using a sturdier frame and better-quality glass protects them from gale-force winds up to 200mph and torrential rainfall.

What Are Some of the Other Benefits Offered by Impact Windows?

Besides keeping your home protected against hurricanes, hurricane resistant windows and entry doors deter burglars for improved home security measures. They also help homeowners reduce their homeowner’s insurance premiums while increasing their property value and curb appeal. You may even notice significant energy savings on your heating and cooling bills, as impact-resistant windows and doors are renowned for their energy-efficiency qualities.

Free Quotes on Impact Resistant Windows in Palm Beach County

The Atlantic hurricane season affecting Florida lasts from June 1 to November 30. Even if you’re not home year-round, get the peace of mind that your house is protected with impact-resistant windows. Palm Beach County, FL residents have relied on Palm Beach Hurricane Windows for over 30 years. Please contact us today to request a free hurricane window installation quote or additional info about the many advantages of investing in impact-resistant products for your home. Be sure to ask about our flexible financing options made possible through our partnership with Synchrony. Upgrading to impact windows and doors may be more affordable than you think!