Windows are one of the most important parts of every home, providing ventilation, natural light, and views. However, they can also become the most vulnerable, especially during extreme weather events such as storms, high winds, and flying debris. This can lead to costly repairs and property damage, and it might even compromise the safety of the family and home.
To prevent such occurrences, consider investing in quality, high-impact window frameworks. High-impact windows are designed to withstand such weather conditions, offering the home and its occupants maximum protection. This guide looks into high-impact window frameworks, their benefits, and how to choose the right one for a house.
What Are Impact Windows?
Impact windows, also called storm or hurricane windows, are window frameworks capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions. They are used in areas prone to severe storms, strong winds, and heavy rain. The window frameworks are designed with different layers of glass and an interlayer, usually made from ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) or polyvinyl butyral (PVB).
Compared to other window frameworks, these windows can resist the impact of flying debris during high-wind events. They also don’t shatter into large, dangerous pieces during extreme events, securing the house and its residents. Aside from ensuring safety, impact window frameworks provide other benefits. These benefits include excellent insulation, enhanced energy efficiency, and noise cancellation.
For homeowners looking to enhance safety with impact windows, it’s essential to understand various factors and options available. To get a comprehensive view on choosing the best windows for your home, you can read this detailed guide that covers important aspects of window replacement and selection.
7 Benefits of Impact Windows for A House
Safety from Storms and High Winds
Impact windows are designed to withstand severe weather conditions, including strong wind and flying debris. They come with a multi-layered glass construction and strong framing that prevents the window from breaking into large pieces.
This helps reduce the risk of getting injured or the window frameworks damaged during storms, offering reliable protection for homes in these vulnerable areas.
Intruder Resistance
High-impact window frameworks are designed with high-quality materials that make them durable. The laminated glass makes it difficult to penetrate or break in. This added layer of security enhances home safety and prevents unauthorized entry.
Noise Reduction
For a quieter and calmer indoor environment, impact windows are the go-to option. They are designed to be thick and layered, helping dampen sound vibrations and thereby reducing external noise. High-impact window frameworks are specifically ideal for homes suited near busy roads, airports, or other noisy areas.
Energy Efficiency
High-impact window frameworks provide excellent insulation, which enhances energy efficiency. They help maintain consistent indoor temperatures by reducing heat transfer and lowering the demand for heating and cooling systems. This helps reduce energy consumption in the house, leading to lower utility bills.
UV Protection
As mentioned earlier, high-impact window frameworks provide better insulation, which includes protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays. The laminated glass used in impact window frameworks blocks a significant amount of UV radiation, reducing the amount that enters the home. This helps retain the color of the furniture, flooring, and other interior equipment, extending their lifespan and reducing the need for replacements.
Reduced Maintenance
These windows are made of durable materials capable of resisting several weather conditions, meaning fewer repairs and replacements. They tend to require less maintenance compared to traditional window frameworks.
Increased Property Value
Installing impact window frameworks can also improve the overall value of a property. Buyers are more likely to purchase the house at the specified price due to the presence of these windows. This is because they are viewed as a desirable feature due to their numerous benefits, including energy efficiency and improved maintenance. Homes equipped with impact window frameworks often attract more interest in the real estate market.
How to Choose the Best Impact Windows for a House
Access Local Building Codes and Requirements
Before purchasing impact window frameworks, it’s important to review local building codes and regulations. These codes usually contain the required window standards, especially when residing in hurricane-prone areas. This step ensures that the framework meets legal requirements while providing adequate protection.
Click here to read more on building codes and regulations.
Frame Material Selection
Also, the frame material used should be considered. Some common materials include vinyl, aluminum, and wood. Vinyl frames provide excellent insulation and are resistant to moisture.
Aluminum frames are strong and durable but have good heat conductors. Wood frames provide aesthetic appeal but require more maintenance. Opt for a material that balances durability, insulation, and maintenance requirements.
Seek Recommendations and Reviews
Seeking recommendations from trusted sources and reading reviews online offers insight into the services and reliability of different impact window brands and models. Previous customers can help highlight potential issues and identify reputable manufacturers and installers.
Select the Right Glass Type
When selecting high-impact finishes, consider the following factors: the thickness of the glass and the type of interlayer material used (e.g., polyvinyl butyral, PVB). If a company adheres to this, then this company has the best impact windows, known for their superior quality and durability. It is because this configuration offers enhanced security, strength, and energy efficiency.
Compare Costs and Financing Options
While impact windows usually cost more than standard variants, their long-term benefits make them worthwhile. Before settling for a particular company, obtain quotes from multiple suppliers and compare the costs, including installation.
Check the Installation Process
Proper installation is important for the effectiveness of impact windows. Ensure that the installer is certified and experienced with impact window installations. Incorrect installation can compromise the window’s performance and shorten its lifespan. Therefore, verify that the installation meets manufacturer specifications and local building codes.
Review Warranty and After-Sales Support
Choose impact window frameworks that come with a reliable warranty. Ensure that the terms and conditions are thoroughly reviewed, including coverage duration and what is included (e.g., glass breakage, frame defects, etc.). With reliable after-sales support, one can be assured of assistance when there are issues post-installation, offering long-term satisfaction and performance.
To learn how to protect windows from hurricanes and other weather conditions, visit https://www.wikihow.com/Protect-Windows-from-a-Hurricane.
Final Words
Windows are a significant part of every home. When evaluating them, consider getting high-impact frameworks. These windows offer several benefits, including safety from storms and high winds, energy efficiency, noise reduction, and UV protection.
To choose the right impact window frameworks, select the right glass type, select the frame material selection, seek recommendations, and compare prices. Remember to opt for windows that are durable and offer maximum security.