When a storm is approaching, homeowners need to be prepared. That means ensuring the shutters are set up and locked before the wind rips around. Impact windows are made to withstand these impacts, and they have a shatter-resistant film on both sides of their glass that seals it in place. This makes them safer than a standard window that may crack but still be able to fly around.
Reduced Risk of Break-Ins
While the primary purpose of impact-resistant windows is to protect you from storms and wind-borne debris, they can also significantly reduce your risk of break-ins. Most burglaries attack weak points in your home, and windows and doors are common entry points for thieves. Impact resistant windows rely on a thicker and more sturdy frame to support the laminated glass they feature. In addition to reducing your risk of break-ins, these windows also help reduce noise pollution in your home. Traditional glass windows tend to shatter when a strong wind or impact force strikes them, sending shards of broken glass flying in all directions. This can be hazardous, as shards could hit people inside the house or damage property.
Increased Energy Efficiency
Impact windows offer a variety of benefits for homeowners, including increased energy efficiency. They provide better insulation than traditional windows, preventing air leaks and helping to reduce heating and cooling costs. They also help to keep warm air inside your home during the winter and prevent cold temperatures from entering your space during summer. They also have Low-E coatings on the glass, which helps to protect your home from UV rays. Most impact-resistant windows use a rigid plastic resin called Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB) between two panes of heat-strengthened glass. This makes it very difficult for criminals to penetrate the window. Even if they break it, the PVB will hold the glass in place until it can be replaced.
Increased Home Value
Impact-resistant windows are a must-have for homeowners because they increase the value of their homes. In addition to protecting your home from storms and break-ins, these durable windows add style and aesthetic appeal to your property. Additionally, they’re a great selling point for potential buyers. Impact-resistant windows come in various styles and architectural designs to complement any home. These windows can withstand hurricane-strength winds and can prevent damage from debris. They even splinter if hit, forming a spider web pattern discouraging break-in attempts from would-be burglars. Impact-resistant windows are a must-have for any homeowner who lives in an area that regularly experiences hurricanes. Building codes in many counties throughout the state require them in new construction or for replacements.
Reduced Noise
Impact-resistant windows are designed to absorb the energy of an impact instead of shattering into pieces. This is a good thing because the shards of glass can easily injure people inside the home. They also offer reduced noise reduction, making your house feel more peaceful and relaxing. This can be especially beneficial if you live near busy roads, airplanes, or noisy locations. Unlike traditional single-pane windows, impact-resistant windows are thicker and constructed with multiple layers of PET laminated glass and polyvinyl butyral (PVB) between the panes. The PVB layer has a different density than the laminated glass, which helps to break up traveling sound waves, decreasing how much is heard. This can be particularly helpful if you have a lot of outside noise, like construction or neighbors’ annual parties.
