Homes in hurricane-prone areas need effective
wind, weather, and flying debris protection. Non-impact windows, as well as
impact windows and doors, do not stand up to these conditions.
When choosing fenestration products for your
Florida home, choosing quality hurricane-proof products that meet local
building codes and provide unmatched safety, security, energy efficiency, and
beauty is important.
Impact
Resistant Glass
A major benefit of impact windows is that they
prevent windborne debris generated by severe weather from crashing into homes.
This can cause serious property damage and even injury or death. While tempered
glass breaks into small, harmless pieces when hit, Florida
windows and doors are designed to resist such forces by combining
laminated and polymer-reinforced glass with heavy window frames.
This design also allows the glass to flex under
pressure, which traditional windows cannot do. This is important because
changes in air pressure during storms can put immense pressure on a home,
potentially causing it to collapse or tear off.
Other benefits of impact windows include
thermal insulation, noise reduction and solar protection. They can help reduce
home energy costs by preventing excessive heat transfer and shielding your
furniture, art and flooring from damaging UV rays that penetrate regular glass.
Plus, unlike plywood sheets, these windows do not need to be stored when not in
use.
Shatter-Resistant
Film
If replacing your windows with impact-rated
glass isn’t an option, shatter-resistant film is a great way to improve
security. This transparent film helps hold your windows together and reduces
the risk of injury during severe weather or from broken glass fragments that
could fly in during a storm or break-ins.
There are several brands of shatterproof window
films that you can choose from. It is a popular choice, offering a good
price-quality balance and a variety of shades, patterns, and colors. It is a
well-respected brand and offers various tints and UV protection levels.
If you’re unsure about which type of window
film would be best for your home, you can always consult an expert from ASC.
We’ll recommend the best option based on your specific needs and budget.
We also offer installation services for our
clients.
Aluminum
Frames
Windows are among the most common points of
failure during hurricanes and high wind events. Non-impact-resistant windows
can shatter into dangerous shards during strong winds, leaving your family
vulnerable to injury and property damage.
Choose windows with aluminum frames that
enhance impact door strength. Aluminum is a durable material that resists salt
spray corrosion, rust, rotting, and peeking. They are also more energy
efficient than vinyl and wood frames. Some models include insulated glass with
LowE to keep heat and air-conditioning inside while keeping outdoor elements
outside.
When building a home with aluminum-framed
windows, leave a 1/2-inch gap around the frame and fill it with caulk. This
helps reduce wall stresses, separates the glass from the mortar, and prevents
alkali from leaching from concrete into the aluminum. A caulking compound with
added calcium chloride can help prevent this if it is used regularly.
Aesthetics
Expert window professionals will evaluate your
home’s unique requirements and recommend hurricane-proof windows. They can also
help you navigate the impact rating system and understand your local building
codes. They can even assist you with rebate program applications.
Window specialists can also offer expert
installation services that will maximize the effectiveness of your
hurricane-proof windows and doors. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of
unmatched protection, enhanced security, energy efficiency, and UV
protection.
Additionally, you can eliminate the need for
shutters or boarding your windows, saving you time and effort during hurricane
preparation. Finally, impact-resistant glass can reduce your home’s energy
consumption and lower your utility bills yearly. Moreover, it can preserve your
home’s aesthetics and value over time by protecting against damaging sun rays.
Therefore, it is an essential investment for homeowners in hurricane-prone
areas.
