A hurricane can be a terrifying experience for homes in coastal areas. Homeowners want to protect their property and may be willing to pay more for a well-protected house.
One of the most popular upgrades is installing hurricane windows and doors. But what are the benefits of these windows?
Impact Resistance
The main benefit homeowners love about impact windows is their ability to keep homes safe during extreme weather events. Hurricane winds are strong enough to blow tree branches and other airborne debris into the home, but these window systems can keep these objects out and prevent structural damage to the house.
Impact-resistant windows can withstand heavy wind-borne debris thanks to their stronger frames and glass. They can withstand pressure equivalent to Category 5 hurricane winds without breaking. When an object hits the window, it will not break into large sharp pieces; instead, the impact glass will crack in a much safer spider-web pattern.
These high-quality windows are also energy efficient, which helps reduce utility bills. They also provide additional protection against burglars and trespassers since they are difficult to break through. This makes them a worthwhile investment for homeowners, as the cost of the windows will be offset by the savings they will reap in energy costs.
Energy Efficiency
During a hurricane, uprooted trees, dislodged roof materials and other debris become missiles that can shatter standard windows. Hurricane resistant windows resist impact and stay intact, protecting your family and belongings from damage and preventing dangerous air leakage during the storm.
In addition to their ability to withstand high winds, hurricane windows are designed with energy efficiency in mind. They feature double or triple glass with tight seals that help keep cool air in the summer and warm air in the winter months, which can significantly lower your utility bills.
There are several options for hurricane-resistant frames, including aluminum or steel, vinyl and wood. However, the most popular choice for homeowners in coastal areas is PVB-laminate hybrid windows that sandwich a layer of polycarbonate Lexan between two layers of glass. This helps to make them even stronger and more efficient than standard windows. These windows offer increased security, reduce maintenance costs and eliminate the need for expensive storm shutters.
Curb Appeal
To increase your home value, curb appeal should be one of your top priorities. The first impression that your home makes on guests and neighbors is an important factor for potential buyers, especially if you’re thinking about selling in the future.
Curb appeal is defined as the visual attractiveness of a property from the street, sidewalk or lawn. While it isn’t as easily measured or quantified as square footage, many homeowners consider curb appeal a crucial factor in their home’s value.
Replacing outdated windows with beautiful impact-resistant ones can instantly boost your home’s curb appeal. New windows offer a wide variety of style options that can be tailored to suit your tastes. These include sophisticated pleated window treatments, decorative valances or cornices, and regal swags. In addition to their aesthetic benefits, these window styles help block harmful UV rays and reduce energy bills. They also let more natural light into your home for a better indoor experience.
Safety
Hurricanes and other tropical storms can cause devastating property damage. The force of high winds, flying debris and sudden pressure changes can collapse homes and lift roofs off the ground.
Hurricane windows are specifically designed to withstand these conditions, with thick multi-layer glass and heavy-duty frames made from aluminum or steel. They are not completely unbreakable, but they will withstand much more pressure than regular windows and can resist the forces of a Category 5 hurricane.
They also provide a level of home security. Because the windows are harder to break into, burglars are less likely to try and enter your house through them.
As a result, homeowners who install hurricane windows can expect a good return on their investment when they sell the house. Even in areas where hurricane-rated windows are not required, potential buyers are more likely to pay a premium for a home with these extra safety measures. Unlike many other renovations that add value to your home, this investment will pay off in the long run.
