High Impact Windows in Miami vs Hurricane Shutters
To protect your home in South Florida from hurricanes, you can choose between impact windows or hurricane shutters. Both offer crucial safeguarding, yet they vary greatly in aspects like features, appearance, price, and ease of use. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.
Impact Resistant Windows
Impact window manufacturers in Miami design their impact windows, or hurricane windows, to resist strong winds and flying debris. They use laminated glass, which has two layers of glass. A strong layer exists between the glass layers.
This design keeps the glass from breaking completely when hit by an object. If the glass does break, it stays attached to the interlayer. This helps protect your home from the hurricane winds and rain.
Advantages of Impact Windows
- Impact windows protect you from hurricanes, intruders, and UV rays all day. Providing you and your family peace of mind.
- These windows provide great insulation. They help lower your energy bills. They maintain your house cool during summer, lowering your utility bill.
- Impact windows enhance your home's appearance, providing a smooth and stylish look, unlike the bulky design of shutters. Select from many styles and color of aluminum frames to match your desired look.
- The thick, laminated glass significantly reduces outside noise, creating a quieter and more comfortable indoor environment.
- Many insurance companies give discounts on homeowners' insurance. Windows and doors are one of the primary factors that affect the insurance cost in South Florida.
- Replacement windows can maintain the original look or provide a new, refreshed style.
Drawbacks of Impact Windows
- The initial installation cost of impact windows can be higher than that of hurricane shutters.
- Installing impact windows requires professional expertise and can be more time-consuming compared to installing shutters.
Hurricane Shutters
Hurricane shutters are storm protection installed over windows to shield them from high winds and debris during a storm. Different types of shutters exist. These include roll-down, accordion, Bahama, and panel shutters. Each type provides different protection and convenience.
Advantages of Hurricane Shutters
- Hurricane shutters usually cost less than impact windows. This makes them a budget-friendly choice for many homeowners.
- With various styles available, you can choose shutters that best suit your needs and aesthetic preferences.
- Some hurricane shutters, such as roll-down and accordion types, are quick to set up when a storm is near.
- You can use shutters only when necessary, providing flexibility in their usage and timing.
Drawbacks of Hurricane Shutters
- You have to install shutters manually with great difficulty every time a hurricane is near. This can take a lot of time and be hard, especially in an emergency. Shutters are typically heavy and need several people to install.
- Shutters can make your home look less appealing when not in use, especially if they are large or unattractive.
- Unlike impact windows, shutters do not provide continuous protection or additional benefits like noise reduction and energy efficiency.
- Shutters do not provide protection against water intrusion from heavy rain and wind.
Which is the Best Choice for Your Home?
The decision between impact windows and hurricane shutters ultimately depends on your priorities, budget, and long-term goals. Here are some factors to consider:
Long-Term Investment: For a long-term investment, impact windows are a great option. They provide ongoing protection. They also add curb appeal, reduce noise and help save energy.
• Budget: If your primary concern is the upfront cost, hurricane shutters may be more suitable. However, consider the potential savings on insurance premiums and energy bills that impact windows can provide over time.
• Convenience: For homeowners who prefer a set-it-and-forget-it solution, impact windows offer unparalleled convenience. On the other hand, if you don’t mind the occasional deployment of shutters, they can be a cost-effective option.
Conclusion
To protect your South Florida home from hurricanes and severe weather, you can choose impact windows or hurricane shutters.
Impact windows and hurricane shutters both protect South Florida homes. Each option has pros and cons to consider, meeting your needs and ensures your property's safety during hurricane season.
At National Glass & Construction, we install premium impact windows and help clients select the optimal solution for their home. We install the best impact windows in Miami.
If you are looking for the best impact window company in South Florida, reach out today.