When seeking replacement windows for their houses, homeowners in storm-prone regions of South Florida have the choice between impact windows and hurricane windows for the added protection both provide.

Though it might seem like an obvious choice to pick the latter, impact window contractors actually advise against it in areas where hurricanes are frequent.

Both are definitely better than standard pane glass options; however, it is important to learn why impact window services advise against using hurricane windows and opt instead for impact windows when building or updating a home.

Impact Windows and Hurricane Windows - What Are They?

Impact windows and hurricane-rated windows are both types of replacement windows that are more durable than standard residential windows.

Both are made with safety glass that is more resilient against severe weather and both are much stronger than the average replacement window with standard glass.

Although the terms are frequently used interchangeably, there are some distinct differences between the two types.

Before hiring impact window contractors, it is essential that homeowners understand these differences so they know what they are actually getting for their money.

How Do Impact Windows Differ From Hurricane Windows?

When comparing the two types that could be installed by impact window services, it is important to know that while hurricane windows are made from laminated safety glass, high-impact windows are made from tempered, impact-resistant glass.

Laminated safety glass is made to resist shattering more than standard glass and will break into smaller, smooth pieces as opposed to large, sharp, and potentially injurious pieces.
Tempered impact glass is made from multiple layers of glass that are bonded together and designed to withstand an impact without breaking into pieces. Due to this more durable construction, this glass is much stronger than that used for hurricane windows.
Hurricane windows are designed to withstand hurricane-force winds, but not impacts; on the other hand, impact windows are designed to protect not only against hurricane-force winds but also impacts from flying debris.
Based on these differences, hurricane windows are less expensive and easier to install, while impact windows require a wider frame and cost more since they are made with more expensive materials.

What Are The Benefits of Choosing Impact Windows?

There is no doubt that hurricane windows are superior to standard replacement windows for any home that may be affected by severe weather and high winds.

Yet in coastal hurricane zones where these storms are frequent, impact window contractors warn that many homes end up damaged first by flying debris breaking the windows and then high winds once they can rip through a building.

For those in hurricane zones, the top choice that offers superior protection is high-impact glass and impact window services recommend high-impact windows for homes that are most likely to be affected by coastal hurricanes.

In regions such as South Florida, certified impact-resistant windows are required upgrades when homeowners decide to replace their old windows.

Homeowners In Hurricane Zones Need Impact Windows for Top Protection

Homes in coastal regions that are susceptible to severe weather need more than hurricane windows for total protection.

Impact windows made from multiple layers of bonded, impact-resistant glass are the best choice.

When these superior replacement components are installed by professional impact window contractors, homeowners can have peace of mind that they are protected not only against high winds but also the damaging flying debris that is common during hurricanes.

Impact window services in hurricane-prone regions recommend the highest-quality windows to protect homes against the worst storms!