When you think about the destruction caused by hurricanes, tornadoes, and other severe weather events, it is hard not to remember the photos you see in newspapers or TV of broken glass covering a home or furniture. If you live in a high-risk area of the country, you know that a strong storm can wreak havoc on your home.
That’s why having sturdy, impact-resistant windows in your home is essential. Not only are they important for protecting your family and belongings, but they can also be a significant investment that can increase the value of your home in the long run.
Hurricane windows are designed to withstand strong winds and heavy debris. They’re also energy-efficient and help keep your home cool while reducing energy bills.
Hurricane windows are becoming increasingly popular in hurricane-prone areas, and for a good reason. They’re a wise investment that can save you big on costly repairs in the future.
High Atmospheric Pressure
The atmosphere above us exerts enormous pressure on everything. Roughly equal to the weight of a bowling ball resting on your thumbnail, this pressure affects temperature, weather patterns, and our physiological well-being.
Atmospheric pressure varies from place to place and from moment to moment. It is because air molecules zoom around the world, bouncing into things with a tiny force.
The air pressure decreases as one moves up in altitude because gas molecules are further apart and less dense. It is why aircraft that fly at high altitudes must be pressurized.
In a hurricane, external and internal atmospheric pressure differences can make a home’s windows unsafe to open. Fortunately, impact-resistant hurricane windows can protect your home from wind and debris damage while keeping out intruders.
Debris
Hurricane impact windows are designed to handle winds up to 200 mph and debris heavier than bricks. They do this by utilizing two pieces of glass sealed with a special super-tough resin, then placed into an aluminum frame.
They also use a film or interlayer that holds the glass in place, so it won’t crack when shattered by the force of high winds. They have reinforced frames and fasteners to strengthen them further.
One example is where Pedro Soto had installed accordion-style shutters before Hurricane hit. When the storm hit, Soto heard a banging noise against one of his shutters.
He could keep his house safe because the wind tore away a part of the roof and smashed it into the shutter. It was a small dent, but Soto says it saved his home from severe damage.
Water Damage
Hurricanes are known for bringing a lot of rain, so choosing impact windows that can resist water damage is essential. If the window cannot withstand the water, it will be much more difficult to repair the damage later.
In addition to being resistant to wind and water, hurricane windows are also energy efficient and help keep your home more comfortable all year round. It can save you money on your energy bills, making a big difference in your budget.
Hurricane windows can also reduce noise outside your home, benefiting families with small children or noisy neighbors. In some cases, they can even help to dampen the sound of mowing and other outdoor activities, which can help your family get a good night’s rest.
Theft
During a storm, it’s no secret that windows can be subjected to incredible forces. The most common reason for breaking a window is flying debris, and that force can be magnified many times over by hurricane winds.
Fortunately, hurricane windows are designed to stand up to this type of pressure. Using technology from the automobile industry, they are constructed of toughened glass that can take a beating from flying objects and high-speed winds.
They are also strong enough to deter intruders and make it challenging for them to force their way into your home.
Installing hurricane windows before a storm hits is the best way to save your house. These windows will protect your family and property during a storm, and they can even boost the value of your home. They are also an energy saver.