Things to Consider When Choosing Impact Windows
If you’re thinking about having impact windows installed on your home, there are a variety of things you should consider before making your final decision. These considerations can be categorized into those about your personal situation, the features of the windows, and the company you choose to install them. In this article, we’ll explore the different things to consider when choosing impact windows so that you can find the options that will best suit your needs.
Your Preferences and Local Building Requirements
One of the first things you’ll want to think about is your home and location. If you’re thinking about impact windows, you probably already have a preference for the enhanced durability and safety these windows can provide during inclement weather.
What you might not be aware of is that certain locations require homeowners to have hurricane windows installed. You’ll want to check your local code requirements to determine if you’re in a High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ). If you are, you’ll be required to choose replacement windows that meet HVHZ building standards and ratings. If you’re not, you may still need products that meet Wind-Borne Debris (WBD) certification. And, of course, even if you’re not in a location that requires these standards, you can always choose impact windows that exceed your local code requirements.
Window Features to Consider
When choosing impact-resistant hurricane windows, there are specific window features you’ll want to look out for as well. Some of the most important features for your impact windows to include are:
- Impact glass – Hurricane windows feature high-impact glass that’s laminated to prevent penetration due to wind-swept debris. While a traditional house window will shatter and cave in when met with sudden impact, impact glass won’t cave in, keeping the interior of your home protected from the elements.
- Durability – Impact windows are also structurally reinforced to withstand high winds and impacts. This will be seen in features like the hardware used to hold the window together and any reinforcements inside the frame itself. The durability of a window is also reflected in the warranty that comes with it. Typically, the better the window, the better you can expect the warranty coverage to be.
In addition to the structure and components of the window itself, another important consideration is cost. Because impact windows are built very differently (and much better than) traditional house windows, you can expect them to cost more as well. Remember that your hurricane windows are an investment in your home and in your safety, so be wary of companies offering impact windows at prices that seem too good to be true.
The Reputation of the Window Company
That brings us to the final category of considerations when choosing impact windows: the company itself. It’s best to have your new hurricane windows installed by a professional and reputable company to ensure it’s done right and to reap the benefits of the warranty (which typically requires professional installation). A reliable company with a strong reputation is one of the most important considerations in the long-term performance and quality of your impact windows.
At Max Guard Hurricane Windows, we proudly offer and install high-performing hurricane-rated impact windows for homeowners throughout the region. To learn more about our impact windows, contact us today.
