Florida residents love the state’s beautiful beaches and consistently warm weather, but living here also comes with the threat of hurricanes. When a big storm forms in the Atlantic, the rush to protect their homes begins. East Coast Windows & Doors is here to assist homeowners in South Florida. We’ll help you compare impact windows vs. storm shutters and decide which is best for safeguarding your property. We specialize in the latest window technology and understand local building codes, so enlist our guidance before hurricane season starts.
What Are Hurricane Impact Windows?
Hurricane impact windows look just like regular windows, but they’re much stronger because they’re made with heavy-duty frames and special laminated glass. This glass is created by bonding two panes of glass together with a strong, clear plastic layer in the middle. If a heavy object hits the window during a storm, the glass might crack, but it won’t shatter into dangerous pieces. The plastic layer holds everything together, keeping wind, rain, and debris from entering your home.
How Traditional Storm Shutters Work
Traditional storm shutters are physical barriers that you put over your existing windows. Their main job is to stop objects from hitting the glass. If a branch or rock hits the shutter, it bounces off, and your window stays safe behind it. However, shutters don’t replace your windows. They’re an extra layer of defense. When the storm is over, you need to open them or take them down to let light back in.
Comparing Impact Windows and Storm Shutters
When choosing between storm shutters vs. hurricane windows, you must consider more than just the price tag. You’ll also have to account for how much work you’re willing to do each time a hurricane begins to form.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a breakdown of how hurricane impact windows and traditional storm shutters compare in key areas:
Convenience
- Impact Windows – These win for convenience because zero preparation time is necessary. If you go on vacation during hurricane season, your home is already safe. You’ll never have to rush home to put up heavy panels.
- Storm Shutters – Most shutters require work. Steel panels can take hours to hang, and accordion shutters require time to lock. If you have a two-story house, installing panels on the second floor can be dangerous.
Appearance and Light
- Impact Windows – These windows look beautiful. They let in natural light even during the worst storms. You’ll be able to see what’s happening outside, which helps many people feel less trapped during a hurricane.
- Storm Shutters – When shutters are closed, your house becomes very dark. You cannot see outside, and you need to use flashlights if the power goes out. Some permanently installed shutters can also look bulky on the side of your house.
Energy Efficiency
- Impact Windows – The thick, laminated glass is excellent at insulating your home. It keeps the cool air inside and the hot Florida sun outside. This can significantly lower your electricity bills.
- Storm Shutters – Shutters do not provide energy efficiency when they’re open. They block the sun when they’re closed, but you’ll only do that during a storm.
Cost
- Impact Windows – The upfront cost is higher. However, they add value to your home and can lower your insurance premiums and energy bills over time.
- Storm Shutters – Panels are very cheap. Accordion and roll-down shutters are more expensive, but they generally cost less than replacing all your windows with impact-resistant glass.
Benefits of Hurricane Protection Windows
While shutters do their job, many Florida homeowners are switching to hurricane impact windows because of the extra benefits they offer beyond storm safety.
- Noise Reduction – The same thick glass that stops flying debris also stops noise. Traffic, lawnmowers, and loud neighbors become much quieter, making your home feel more peaceful.
- Burglary Protection – The glass is incredibly hard to break, acting as a strong deterrent against intruders. A burglar cannot simply smash the window to unlock a door.
- UV Protection – The laminated layer blocks nearly 99% of harmful UV rays. This prevents your furniture, carpet, and artwork from fading due to sunlight.
- Curb Appeal – New windows give a house a fresh, updated look. If you ever decide to sell your home, impact windows will appeal to potential buyers.
Where to Install Impact Windows
If you determine that hurricane protection windows are the right choice for you, you should consider installing them in all openings of your home.
- Windows – Replace all standard glass panes, including those in bedrooms, living rooms, and bathrooms.
- Sliding Glass Doors – These are large targets for debris. Impact sliding doors are heavy and secure.
- Front Doors – Many entry doors now come with impact-resistant glass inserts, allowing you to have both style and safety.
- Skylights – Don’t forget the roof. Impact skylights prevent dangerous leaks and breakage during high winds.
Why You Should Choose East Coast Windows & Doors
Choosing the best hurricane protection windows is only the first step. You also need the right installation team. East Coast Windows & Doors delivers high-quality work and customer service for homeowners throughout South Florida, and the surrounding areas. Our installers are precise and clean. Moreover, we’ll handle the permits and paperwork so that you don’t have to worry about a thing before, during, or after installation.
Contact Our South Florida Window Professionals Today
The best time to prepare for hurricane season is right now. If you’re ready to upgrade to hurricane impact windows or replace your existing impact windows, East Coast Windows & Doors is the team to call. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
