Why You Should Invest in Impact Windows vs. Storm Windows or Hurricane Shutters

When it comes to preparing your home for a hurricane or a coastal storm, there are several options available to you. Homeowners can choose from impact windows, storm windows and rolling or accordion exterior hurricane shutters. Learn more about each type and why investing in impact windows is the better choice.

Impact windows, also called impact-resistant or hurricane windows, combine a heavy-duty window frame with impact-resistant glass. These windows are designed to not only withstand high design pressures during hurricanes but also protect your home from flying debris. Impact-resistant glass is laminated, meaning there is a polymer interlayer sandwiched between two panes of glass to make it stronger. The interlayer is meant to remain intact, even when debris breaks the glass, to keep the wind and elements out of your home for the remainder of the storm. In addition to protection from the storm, hurricane windows have numerous benefits including improved noise reduction, energy efficiency and protection from UV rays.

Depending on where you live, certain types of impact windows may be required by your state and county building codes. After each hurricane season, most municipalities reexamine current standards and may opt for increased requirements. New windows will be a part of your home for many years to come; investing in impact windows now can grant peace of mind for when the next storm comes. After closing and locking Pella Hurricane Shield Series impact windows, no additional product preparation is required for a hurricane to meet most local codes.

Installed overtop an existing window, exterior storm windows help improve the energy efficiency and noise reduction of your existing window. They are predominately, only recommended for installation over single-pane aluminum windows that are still in operable condition as a cost-effective way to make your home more comfortable.

Aluminum and wood storm windows usually feature a single-pane of glass or a double-strength pane of glass. With the increased space between the interior and exterior panes of glass, this adds insulation, energy efficiency and noise reduction. While storm windows provide enhanced comfort, they are not impact resistant and therefore will not protect your home from flying debris during a storm. They also are not the most beautiful solution on the market. Storm windows will cost approximately $100-$400 per window, depending on the brand, style and size.

Made of a variety of materials including metal, hurricane shutters are designed to withstand damage. Hurricane shutters help protect your windows and doors from breaking during a hurricane or tropical storm by being a barrier between the wind, rain, debris and your home.

There are a variety of hurricane shutter types available from panels and colonial shutters to rolling and accordion. To prepare for a hurricane or tropical storm, most hurricane shutters must be closed and locked from the exterior of the home. It is also important to consider that some hurricane shutters are not designed for year-round use and therefore require installation prior to and removal after a storm. Hurricane shutters could cost a few thousand dollars to outfit an entire home, depending on the number of windows and style of operation that you choose.

Beautiful impact windows and impact patio doors are a beautiful addition to any coastal home. They do not require any additional, unsightly parts that could impact the curb appeal of your home. In addition to exceptional protection during a hurricane or tropical storm, impact windows provide a host of year-round benefits for you and your home.

1. A quieter home. Impact windows feature laminated glass which significantly reduces the amount of noise that is transmitted through your windows.
2. Improved energy efficiency for a more comfortable home. Some feature two or three panes of glass and strong glass seals, impact windows help keep your home warmer on cool days and cooler on hot days. This could help reduce heating and cooling costs.
3. UV protection. Available coatings on the glass of impact windows help protect your furniture, artwork and décor from fading.
4. Enhanced security. Worry less about intruders with impact glass, which is stronger than traditional glass.
5. Insurance costs are reduced. You should always check with your insurance carrier, but many reduce your rate when impact windows are installed in your home.

When selecting the right solution for your home, it is important to consider timing and preparedness. Recently, Florida legislature approved a tax incentive that provides a two-year sales tax exception on all impact windows and doors starting July 1, 2022.

Always make sure you are leaving adequate time to prepare your home before the storm. While generally the most expensive option discussed in this article, new and replacement impact windows provide year-round protection and peace of mind for your home and your family — not just benefits during the storm. Engineered to help protect what matters most, they also can provide the quickest storm prep when time is of the essence.