Without proper protection, your home becomes extremely vulnerable during a hurricane or severe storm. So fragile, in fact, that breaking the wrong window can allow wind to blow in and blow the entire roof off your home.
Impact windows provide this protection, but their durability, strength, and functionality also make them one of the best options for improving energy efficiency, home protection, climate control, and more. Installing these windows will provide a great service to your home.
Hurricane windows are one of your home’s main defenses against inclement weather, but they also offer other benefits that may be worth the extra cost.
9 Benefits of Hurricane Windows That May Surprise You
The additional benefits of hurricane windows make them a desirable upgrade even in areas where hurricanes do not occur frequently. As weather patterns become increasingly unpredictable, impact windows provide peace of mind through increased efficiency and climate control.
Do you need hurricane windows in non-coastal areas?
“Many homeowners are considering and implementing these products to protect their greatest asset, their home,” says Damon Halvorsen, general manager of Westshore Homes in central Florida.
1. Hurricane windows add built-in home security year-round
If flying debris can’t break these windows, then the average burglar can’t get through them either.
“Hurricane-proof windows are much more effective against break-in attempts because they have thicker glass and an increased number of glass panes,” Halvorsen says. The strength and design of the windows will give you a sense of security whether you are at home or away.
2. Hurricane windows significantly improve energy efficiency.
Hurricane windows are energy efficient by design, further reducing your energy bills. Thick glass prevents air from entering and leaving the window, keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Old, inefficient windows can account for up to 30% of your home’s wasted energy, so installing energy-efficient windows can make a big difference in your annual energy bills.
“Hurricane-proof windows are triple-glazed and also have additional inert gas insulation to minimize the heat load that the outside environment is trying to pass through,” Halvorsen says. This also puts less strain on your HVAC system, allowing you to better maintain your home’s internal temperature.
3. Achieve a quieter home with excellent noise reduction effects
Do you hear every car passing by, or do you feel like you’re right in the middle of your neighbor’s conversation? Hurricane windows may be the answer.
“With the increased glass thickness and number of panes, most of our customers report a significant reduction in external noise such as high-decibel air conditioners and outdoor road traffic,” says Halvorsen. So, if you live near a busy street or downtown, installing hurricane windows may help keep unwanted noise out of your location.
4. Are hurricane windows worth the cost?
In coastal areas like Florida, hurricane windows are more of an expectation than a perk, but they add value in another way: they appeal to buyers. If your home has new impact windows and a comparable home down the street doesn’t, your home may be more attractive to buyers.
“While there are insurance benefits to installing hurricane-rated products in your home, determined by your insurance company, there is also the added benefit of recovering your investment in the aftermath of a hurricane through resale due to the higher perceived value of hurricane-rated products,” says Halvorsen.
5. The windows have UV protection to protect your interior.
“Our windows incorporate a patented 12-layer protective layer on the glass, which not only improves energy efficiency but also reduces light transmission into the home,” says Halvorsen. Some hurricane windows block up to 90% of UV rays, protecting furniture, carpets, curtains, and art from fading.
6. You can prepare for a storm without any last-minute preparation.
Impact windows are always ready to weather the storm. When you have hurricane windows, you don’t have to run around your house closing shutters every time a storm appears on your radar. This not only saves you time, but also gives you peace of mind if you are away from home when a storm hits.
7. Improved comfort and climate control
Impact windows are energy efficient and have thicker glass, which helps create a quieter, more peaceful home. Whether it’s reducing outdoor noise for a better night’s sleep or improving the functionality of your HVAC system to lower indoor temperatures, hurricane windows can make your home more comfortable.
8. Insurance discounts and long-term savings
Because impact windows protect your home from storm damage, many home insurance companies will offer discounts and incentives if you install impact windows in your home.
“Homeowners should always check directly with their insurance company, as insurance incentives may vary by insurance company, policy, and location,” says Nicole Willits, Design Trends, Product, and Sustainability Manager at Pella Windows. “In some markets, insurance companies may offer discounts if impact-resistant windows and doors are installed because they reduce storm-related risks.”
9. Low maintenance and durability
Double glazing and reinforced window frames make this type of window more durable than your average window. They are built to last up to 30 years, and some even last up to 40 years.
Where to buy impact windows
Proper installation is critical to the effectiveness of hurricane windows and may be as important as the product itself.
“You can install the most expensive window, but if it’s not installed properly, that window will be useless during a major storm,” says Halvorsen.
Most major window replacement companies, such as West Shore Home, Renewal by Andersen, and Champion Windows, offer residential impact windows. Start by getting a free quote and compare costs and design options.
