Three Common Questions About Hurricane Windows
Posted on: 4 April 2018
If you just moved to an area with hurricanes or harsh storms, you need to take the weather into account when selecting new windows for your home. In areas like these, most homeowners opt for hurricane windows, also known as impact windows. These windows are much safer and less likely to shatter than traditional glass windows. However, they tend to be misunderstood, especially to homeowners who are new to hurricane zones. Here are three questions you may have as you're about to invest in hurricane windows.
1. What makes these windows safer?
Hurricane windows are made with the same glass as typical windows. However, the glass is layered with a piece of plastic-like material so that if the window glass shatters, it stays stuck to this plastic. This is the same general concept used in making car windshields. In the best hurricane windows, the layer of plastic is found in the middle between two pieces of glass. Lower-end impact windows may have the film on just the outside or inside, which will work well in most cases, but is a bit less effective in really strong winds or if something very heavy hits the window.
2. How much do hurricane windows cost?
Hurricane windows are more expensive than standard glass windows. You may see them for about $500 or $600 a window, or perhaps around $700 including the price of installation. Do not, however, give in to the temptation to buy a cheaper, non-hurricane-resistant window to save money. When the first storm rolls in, your cheaper window will break and you will need to replace it -- so your costs will be higher in the long-term. Hurricane windows are a worthwhile investment and will protect the contents of your home during storms, lowering your repair bills.
3. What frame material should you choose?
Hurricane windows come framed in an array of materials, the most common of which are probably aluminum and vinyl. Wood windows are not the best choice in hurricane areas because they are prone to moisture-related decay. Aluminum windows are a good choice if you plan on installing them yourself since they are lightweight. They are rather strong, making them a good choice for storm protection. However, vinyl windows are better insulators, so you may want to choose vinyl windows if your home is in a very warm environment and you're worried about meeting certain energy efficiency standards.
Contact a company, like A Better View, for more help.
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