Complete Guide To Hurricane Impact Windows

If you own a property in an area that is prone to tropical storms and hurricanes, you’ve probably considered installing hurricane impact windows.  Not only can they protect your home from storm damage better than standard windows, they can also qualify you for lower homeowners insurance rates in many states.  This article will cover the most frequently asked questions regarding hurricane impact windows according to our contractors in Tampa, including:

• Benefits of hurricane impact windows
• How thick is hurricane-proof glass?
• Who makes the best hurricane-proof windows?
• Do hurricane-impact windows open?
• What category of a hurricane can impact windows withstand?
• How much do hurricane-impact sliding glass doors cost?

Benefits of hurricane impact windows.

Hurricane impact windows provide a wide range of benefits to the homeowner, including:

1. Protects your Property – Hurricane impact windows are designed to protect your home from wind, impact and water damage during heavy storms
2. Protects the Residents – They reduce the risk of injury from flying objects.
3. Adds Value to the House – Installing hurricane impact windows can add significant value to your home, especially in regions vulnerable to hurricanes and tornados.
4. Can Lower Your Homeowner’s Insurance – Installing windows can give you a significant discount to your homeowners insurance depending on which state you live in.
5. Saves Time & Energy During Storms – If you’ve ever dealt with metal shudders or accordions, you know there’s a lot of work that goes with preparing for a major storm. With hurricane impact windows, you can ditch the shudders next time a storm threatens your area!

How thick is hurricane-proof glass?

The thickness of the glass can range from 1/4 inch to 1-1/2 inches depending on the manufacturer, but most are between 3/16 and 1/2 inch. Most windows consist of single strength glass, which is 3/32” thick.  This gives you an idea of how strong this type of window is compared to regular windows.

Hurricane impact glass is made with a special type of plastic called polycarbonate, which is used in bulletproof glass because it’s very resistant to impact and doesn’t shatter easily like other plastics do when they break under pressure.

Who makes the best hurricane-proof windows?

Many of the top window manufacturers offer products that are rated for hurricanes.  Andersen, Marvin and Pella all carry models that are impact rated, and are great quality products that you can consider.  Many window contractors will carry their own line of window products, and are worth a look in terms of comparing quality and price.

Just as important as the quality of the window is the quality of the handyman installing it.  You will want to ensure that you choose a reputable window installer for the job, because even the best windows will fail if they aren’t installed properly.

Try to find a local handyman with a good reputation and a track record of satisfied customers. These companies will usually offer warranties on their products and may also provide references from previous customers.  You can also use PunchList to get a free repair estimate for hurricane impact windows and find vetted local contractors in your area that are qualified to install them.

Do hurricane impact windows open?

The answer is yes.  Hurricane impact windows are offered in all the same styles as regular windows, the main difference is the glass that is used for the windows is built to resist impacts and high winds.  So you can purchase hurricane impact windows that open like double hangs, sliders, casements, even bay & bow windows.

What category of a hurricane can impact windows withstand?

Hurricane impact windows are designed to withstand different levels of storm.  Impact windows should have a DP rating which ranges from 0 to 50.  This rating determines the level or category of storm that the window will protect the home against.  For example:

• DP 10 – window can withstand a Category 1 hurricane
• DP 20 – window can withstand a Category 2 hurricane
• DP 30 – window can withstand a Category 3 hurricane
• DP 40 – window can withstand a Category 4 hurricane
• DP 50 – window can withstand a Category 5 hurricane

How much do hurricane-impact windows and sliding glass doors cost?

In general, hurricane impact windows are more expensive than standard windows.  Most hurricane impact windows range in price from $100-$500 per window depending on the size and style of the window.  Larger bay & bow windows can range in cost from $1000-$6000 each.  The average price for a hurricane impact sliding glass door can range from $300 to $1,100 for standard 5’ and 6’ doors.  They can be considerably more expensive for larger or custom-sized doors.

Impact-resistant windows vs. hurricane impact windows

You’ve probably heard the term “hurricane impact windows” before, but it’s not a phrase you see in everyday conversation. So what are hurricane impact windows? They’re specially designed windows that can withstand category three or higher hurricanes, a storm with winds above 111 miles per hour.

Hurricanes make landfall at different times of the year and vary widely in size and severity, so wind speed is just one factor determining how much damage they’ll cause. The Saffir-Simpson scale rates hurricanes on five levels based on their sustained wind speeds (not gusts), proximity to land, and overall intensity as they approach landfall. The higher the category, the greater potential for damage:

• Category 1: 74-95 mph sustained winds
• Category 2: 96-110 mph sustained winds
• Category 3: 111-130 mph sustained winds
• Category 4: 130-156 mph sustained winds
• Category 5: 157+ mph sustained winds

Conclusion

With so many fantastic windows on the market today, it’s hard to know what’s best. But, hopefully this article has provided you with the information that you need to decide if impact resistant windows are right for you. If so, we encourage you to research the products and ensure that you are choosing whats best for your home.