At Master Remodelers, LLC, we understand the importance of choosing the right windows to protect your home from severe weather conditions. When it comes to safeguarding your property against hurricanes and impacts for airborne objects during high winds, two popular options emerge: hurricane windows and impact windows. The decision of whether to install impact windows or hurricane windows is much easier once you understand how they differ.
While both types of windows offer enhanced protection, there are slight differences that you should be aware of before deciding which one is best for your home. Our home remodelers and general contractors are ready to teach you the difference! Let’s delve into the details and shed light on the similarities and differences between hurricane windows and impact windows which we hope will allow you to make a well-informed decision.
Jump to a section from the table of contents below by clicking on a topic.
Table of Contents
Jump to a section from the table of contents below by clicking on a topic.
- What are hurricane windows?
- How do hurricane windows work?
- What are the advantages of hurricane windows?
- What are impact windows?
- How are impact windows different than hurricane windows?
- What are the advantages of impact windows?
- How to Choose the Best Type of Windows
- Contact Us
Defining Hurricane Windows
Hurricane windows, also known as hurricane-resistant windows, are specifically designed to withstand the powerful forces generated during a hurricane or tropical storm. These windows are engineered to provide comprehensive protection against high winds, flying debris, and water infiltration. The construction of hurricane windows involves multiple layers of impact-resistant glass, often with a special interlayer between them.
How Hurricane Windows Work
The layered construction of hurricane windows is the key to their exceptional strength. When subjected to impact, the glass layers are designed to absorb the energy and distribute it across the entire surface, minimizing the risk of shattering. This unique feature ensures that even if the outer layer breaks, the inner layers remain intact, maintaining the structural integrity of the window.
Advantages of Hurricane Windows
- Storm Protection: Hurricane windows offer unparalleled protection against extreme weather events, including hurricanes, tropical storms, and strong winds. They act as a barrier, preventing debris from entering your home and reducing the likelihood of structural damage.
- Energy Efficiency: In addition to their protective capabilities, hurricane windows also contribute to energy efficiency. The multiple layers of glass provide insulation, reducing heat transfer and helping to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home. This can lead to potential energy savings and lower utility bills.
- Noise Reduction: The multi-layered design of hurricane windows offers excellent noise reduction properties. They can help to create a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment by minimizing external noise, such as traffic or construction sounds.
Understanding Impact Windows
Impact windows, also referred to as impact-resistant windows, share many similarities with hurricane windows. They are engineered to withstand strong impacts and are highly effective in protecting your home against severe weather conditions. However, there are some distinct differences that set them apart and distinguish them as a clear winner compared with hurricane windows.
How Impact Windows Work
Impact windows consist of multiple layers of glass. The primary difference lies within the window’s inner layer, which is lined with a special type of plastic called polyvinyl butyral (PVB). This PVB interlayer enhances the strength and impact resistance of the window, making it highly durable.
Advantages of Impact Windows
- Security Enhancement: Impact windows not only provide protection against hurricanes but also serve as a deterrent against break-ins and intruders. The reinforced glass and interlayer make it extremely difficult to breach, adding an extra layer of security to your home.
- UV Protection: Impact windows are designed to block harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from entering your home. This helps to prevent fading of furniture, flooring, and other interior elements, while also protecting your skin from the damaging effects of UV radiation.
- Noise Reduction: Like hurricane windows, impact windows offer excellent noise reduction capabilities. They create a more serene living environment by reducing the impact of external noises.
Choosing the Best Window Type for Your Home
Choosing between hurricane windows and impact windows depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you live in a region prone to frequent hurricanes or tropical storms, hurricane windows might be the ideal choice for maximum storm protection.
However, impact windows are more robust and can withstand 1000 to 150-foot-pounds of impact (per ANSI standards) from debris or blunt force. For this reason impact windows are more resilient and offer better protection for homeowners along the Texas Gulf Coast region.
On the other hand, if you seek a versatile solution that combines storm resistance with enhanced security features, we recommend upgrading your home’s replacement windows to impact rated. This is especially true if you live in coastal east Texas cities like Galveston, Clear Lake, Seabrook, and nearby areas.
At Master Remodelers, LLC, we understand the importance of selecting the right windows to protect your family and home during storms and wind events. Our team of experts can guide you through the decision-making process, helping you consider factors such as your location, budget, vulnerability, and desired features.
By offering a range of high-quality hurricane and impact windows, we ensure that you find the perfect solution to protect your home and loved ones.
Contact Us to Request a Window Replacement Quote
For further assistance or to explore our wide selection of hurricane and impact windows, please send us an email or call (713) 705-9583. Our dedicated team is ready to address your window needs in Houston, Pearland, Cypress, or Galveston, Texas.
