Hurricane Windows: Are They Worth It?
Posted on: 17 September 2021
During hurricane season, the weather is unpredictable, and whether you evacuate your home or decide to ride out the storm, you want your home to remain intact. You can board up windows in your home, or you can opt for another solution. Hurricane windows and doors are available for homes threatened by tropical storms and hurricanes.
To decide if this option is right for your home, you need to understand how these windows differ from traditional windows. You also need to know the cost and if it's worth the investment.
How Are Hurricane Windows Different?
Regular window glass can't withstand high winds of hurricanes or impacts. Standard hurricane windows can withstand the extreme pressure of hurricane winds, but not the impact of flying debris.
However, hurricane impact windows offer a durable laminate between the glass panes that can withstand both extreme wind force and impact. Hurricane windows are made of laminated security glass. This is a special type of glass consisting of a thermoplastic layer in the middle of two strong glass outer layers.
How Much Force Can Hurricane Windows Withstand?
Hurricane windows provide resistance to a great amount of damage. These windows can withstand up to 200 mph winds. Those with impact proofing also shield those inside from flying debris.
While the glass may break if hit by flying debris, it won't break into sharp pieces, and it won't allow projectiles through the glass. The glass cracks, creating a spider web pattern instead of shattering into dangerous shards of glass.
Are Hurricane Windows Worth It?
Hurricane windows are an investment and can be costly. If you build a new home and ask for hurricane windows, it will increase your cost. However, the protection it provides during a storm is worth the investment.
The money spent pays for itself by preventing storm damage and lowering the costs of repairs — not to mention keeping your family safe. Installing hurricane windows also qualifies homeowners for discounts on home insurance rates.
For people living in areas threatened by yearly hurricanes and tropical storms, hurricane windows are a great investment. They help protect your home and your family. These windows give homeowners peace of mind in both and evacuation or when hunkering down to wait out the storm. Families can feel safe inside the home and feel confident they'll come back to a home with less damage.
You can look into options for both hurricane-resistant windows and doors for your home.
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