Every year, as hurricane season draws near, Florida residents start to complete a long list of preparations for their homes and families. Getting sandbags ready? Check. Buying extra batteries and flashlights? Check. Are the windows duct taped? There must be a better approach.
Impact windows are helpful in this situation. These windows, often known as storm windows or hurricane windows by homeowners, can better safeguard your property and give you one less worry during storm season. What qualities, then, should you look for in premium windows? We have solutions; continue reading.
Heavy duty frames
Heavy-duty frames are one of the essential characteristics of excellent impact windows. You must be able to rely on the security of the windows in your home and the integrity of the glass in the frames since hurricane-force winds can reach speeds of hundreds of miles per hour. Consider incredibly durable materials like vinyl or metal, both praised for their tenacity and toughness. Look for essential characteristics of heavy-duty frames, like a constant force balance system, embedded tilt locks for increased security, and integrated corner keys for increased sash strength.
Impact-proof glass
The glass of an impact window is its most crucial component. There are several varieties of impact glass available, including:
- Tempered glass resists temperature changes and direct impacts.
- Laminated glass, which has a sturdy, transparent interlayer to keep the glass from separating from the frame,
- Laminated insulating glass, which consists of two glass panes—one for strength and one for further insulation
- Heat-resistant glass that withstands sharp temperature changes without shattering
- The annealed glass will splinter into large pieces when broken.
The best impact windows combine several of the impact-resistant glass treatments mentioned above. Be careful to discuss the best option for your home’s particular requirements with your window contractor.
Relevant testing
Tests are the only way to make sure impact windows are resistant to impacts. Vigorous tests, such as impact, cyclic, and static water testing, against simulated storm conditions are essential. Look for impact windows that have had favorable test results. For instance, premium impact windows pass all three of the aforementioned tests.
The laminated glass should be made to survive repeated impacts from a 9-pound, 34 mph 2′ x 4′. Additionally, even if the glass is broken, the interlayer should keep it together and keep outside trash outside. The best impact windows also outperform Florida building code requirements for impact resistance, a crucial factor to consider when installing new impact windows in your home.
Energy-saving attributes
Be careful to use energy-efficient impact windows to maintain acceptable inside temperatures. Laminated insulating glass, heat-reducing glass tints, and high-performance low-E options are characteristics you should seek in an energy-efficient impact window. Just because a window has a few eco-friendly features doesn’t mean it will be energy-efficient; window performance must also be considered.
Durability
Durability is the most crucial aspect of impact windows and doors. Durable impact-resistant windows and doors have sturdy frames and laminated glass that prevent your windows or doors from shattering when they are struck by powerful winds or flying debris.
conclusion
Consult a reputable impact window manufacturer to find out more about these windows.
