Having hurricane windows installed is one of the most brilliant things you can do to protect your home from damaging storms. Not only do they prevent damage to your property, but they can also help you qualify for lower homeowners insurance rates.
There are many different types of hurricane windows to choose from. Learn more about these popular choices to select the right window for your home!
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass is often used in skylight glazing and automobile windshields, but it is also a popular choice for Hurricane Impact Windows. Its strength comes from the interlayer, which bonds the glass pieces together to prevent shattering and falling off the frame in case of a natural disaster.
The interlayer also protects the window from stray debris, such as rocks or bullets. The pressure and heat from the process make laminated glass up to five times stronger than regular tempered glass.
Laminated glass is also an excellent option for acoustic applications, as it can dampen noise without obstructing the view outside. It can even be switched to opaque for a clear picture of a specific home area.
Shatter-Resistant Film
The shatter-resistant film is a common type of hurricane window used by budget-conscious homeowners. This type of film does not provide the same level of impact resistance as other types of hurricane windows.
The film does prevent shards of glass from flying and reduces the risk of injuries. It also helps keep broken glass in place to minimize property damage during storms and keeps debris out even as the storm continues.
However, the shatter-resistant film is not recommended as a substitute for other hurricane mitigation barriers like shutters and storm panels.
This type of film is a great way to improve the performance of existing glass in various ways. It can help to reduce the risks of personal injury, water damage and even delay forced entry attempts.
Laminated Insulating Glass
Laminated insulating glass is a type of hurricane window that consists of two panes of glass that are bonded together with an interlayer. The second pane is for added insulation, which helps reduce heat transfer and lowers energy costs.
These insulated windows can be fitted into an aluminum frame, which makes them much more durable. In addition, they offer added impact resistance and additional security against intruders.
The plastic sheeting encases the laminated glass and is often made from polyvinyl butyral, a solid and rigid polymer. It also prevents the glass from spraying in extreme weather conditions.
Laminated insulating glass also protects against UV rays, which can fade furniture and carpets. It is also an excellent insulator, which helps to keep homes more relaxed in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Frames
Like standard windows, hurricane-resistant windows have frames made of aluminum or steel, vinyl, or wood. These materials’ strength and insulating value can make them the best choice for locations with high wind speeds.
Frames also help to keep the broken glass from flying inward. This is a good thing because it helps to prevent severe damage to your home.
Window films, on the other hand, can’t help to make your windows indestructible, but they can reduce the hazard of broken glass flying inward. These films are often used with other storm mitigation barriers to secure your home.
Some insurance companies will offer discounts to homeowners who install hurricane-resistant windows. This makes it easier for homeowners to afford this kind of upgrade.
