Living in Florida means preparing for the inevitable—hurricanes. Ensuring your home is equipped to withstand these forces is essential for safety and peace of mind. A crucial aspect of this preparation involves choosing the right type of protective windows that can withstand harsh weather like wind, rain, and projectiles. In this blog, we will delve into what are storm windows and impact windows, exploring each type’s functionalities, benefits, and how they contribute to weatherproofing homes against the harsh weather conditions frequently experienced in hurricane-prone areas like Florida.

A man in a blue shirt is sealing storm windows on a house, an activity that raises the question "what are storm windows" in relation to their role in protecting homes from severe weather.

What Are Storm Windows?

Storm windows are a secondary window system that can be installed either on the interior or exterior of a home’s existing main windows. These additional windows, made of materials like glass, rigid plastic, or flexible plastic sheets; but, what are storm windows good for? First, they provide an extra layer of insulation, creating an air gap between the storm window and the main window. This helps improve the overall energy efficiency of the home by reducing heat transfer. Storm windows also offer enhanced soundproofing, blocking more noise from entering or exiting the home compared to the main windows alone. Crucially, storm windows can protect the primary windows from damage, especially during severe weather events like hurricanes and tropical storms that are common in Florida. While not as expensive as fully replacing a home’s windows, storm windows offer a cost-effective way for homeowners to bolster the insulation, soundproofing, and storm protection of their property.

Pros

  • Cost-Effective: Storm windows are generally less expensive than replacing existing windows with new, high-performance models.
  • Energy Efficiency: They improve energy efficiency by creating an insulating air space, leading to lower heating and cooling costs.
  • Ease of Installation: Many storm windows can be installed by the homeowners themselves and can be added or removed depending on the season.

Cons:

  • Limited Impact Resistance: While they offer extra protection against wind and rain, they are not designed to withstand the impact from debris like impact windows.
  • Aesthetics: External storm windows can detract from the appearance of the home and require maintenance to ensure they remain clear and functional.

Green shutters over a window raising the question "what are storm windows?"

What Are Impact Windows?

Impact windows are a critical component of hurricane-resistant home construction in Florida and other coastal regions. These windows are made from impact-resistant glass treated with a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This treatment ensures that if the glass breaks, it holds together, preventing dangerous shards from entering the home.

Unlike standard windows, impact windows are designed to provide enhanced protection against the powerful forces of hurricanes, helping to safeguard homes and businesses from extensive wind, rain, and projectile damage

 

Engineered to meet strict building codes for withstanding severe storms, impact windows are made with reinforced, laminated glass or other durable materials that prevent the window from shattering and breaking apart during high winds and impact from flying debris.

 

In addition to their storm protection capabilities, impact windows also offer improved energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer, as well as enhanced soundproofing and security features. Impact windows are available in a variety of styles and can be customized to complement the aesthetic of a property. While the upfront cost may be higher than standard windows, impact windows are considered a wise investment for homeowners in hurricane-prone areas, providing peace of mind and long-term protection against the devastating effects of severe weather.

Pros:

  • High Impact Resistance: Designed to withstand significant impacts from flying debris, offering greater protection during hurricanes.
  • UV Protection: Most impact windows include a layer that blocks harmful UV rays, protecting interiors from sun damage.
  • Noise Reduction: The thickness and sealing quality of impact windows provide excellent soundproofing benefits.

Cons:

  • Cost: Impact windows are more expensive upfront than traditional glass or storm windows.
  • Professional Installation Required: Due to their weight and the complexity of their design, professional installation is necessary, adding to their overall cost.

Comparing Storm and Impact Windows

While both types of windows aim to protect your home during rough weather, their suitability can vary based on specific needs. Storm windows might be adequate for regions with milder weather patterns, offering sufficient protection against wind and water. In hurricane-prone regions like Florida, the choice between installing storm windows or impact windows for a home depends on the level of protection required and the specific weather conditions the home is likely to face. Storm windows can provide a more affordable option for improving insulation, soundproofing, and basic protection against wind and rain.

 

However, for homes located in high-velocity hurricane zones, or within one mile of the coast where winds can exceed 100 mph, the building code typically requires the use of impact-resistant windows. Impact windows are engineered to withstand the immense pressure, flying debris, and other extreme forces associated with severe hurricanes. Unlike standard storm windows, impact windows have reinforced frames and laminated glass that prevent the window from shattering, even if struck by large projectiles.

 

For maximum protection in Florida’s hurricane-prone climate, impact windows are the superior choice, as they offer comprehensive safeguarding for the home and its occupants. While more expensive upfront, impact windows can also lead to insurance discounts and increased home value, making them a wise long-term investment for Florida homeowners.

 

Safety Insights

The safety of installing storm or impact windows goes beyond protecting the physical structure of a home; it extends to safeguarding the lives of its inhabitants. Impact windows, in particular, are crucial in regions susceptible to hurricanes, as they offer a permanent solution that ensures readiness at all times, eliminating the need for last-minute preparations during hurricane warnings.

 

Build to Last with Synergy Homes

Deciding between storm windows and impact windows largely depends on your specific location, budget, and safety requirements. For residents in Florida, where the risk of hurricanes is high, investing in impact windows is a wise choice for superior protection and long-term peace of mind.

 

If you are considering upgrading your home to be more hurricane-resistant, Synergy Homes specializes in building robust, energy-efficient homes equipped with the latest in storm protection technology. Contact Synergy Homes today to learn more about how we can help you build a hurricane-resistant home, ensuring that you are well-prepared for whatever nature throws your way. Don’t wait until it’s too late—build a safer, smarter home today.

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