Do i need hurricane shutters if i have impact windows?

Mackenzie Charron • March 18, 2023

 Do i need hurricane shutters if i have impact windows?

If you live in a region prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, you understand the importance of preparing your home for these weather events. One of the essential measures to safeguard your home is to install impact-resistant windows. These windows can withstand high winds and flying debris that accompany hurricanes, reducing the risk of severe damage to your home. However, many homeowners ask whether they still need hurricane shutters if they have impact windows. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits and drawbacks of each option to help you make an informed decision.


Impact Windows: What Are They And Do i Need Shutters Too?


Impact windows, also known as hurricane windows, are designed to withstand strong winds and flying debris during a storm. These windows are made of laminated glass, which consists of two or more glass layers bonded together with a tough interlayer material, such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). When impacted, the glass may crack, but the interlayer holds the shattered pieces together, preventing them from flying into your home.


Pros of Impact Windows


  1. Impact windows offer year-round protection. Unlike hurricane shutters, you don't have to install or remove them each season, saving you time and effort.
  2. They add value to your home. Impact windows increase the value of your property and can make it easier to sell your home in the future.
  3. They offer noise reduction. The laminated glass used in impact windows can also reduce external noise, making your home quieter and more peaceful.
  4. They provide enhanced security. The strength of the laminated glass in impact windows makes them more difficult to break, improving your home's security.

Cons of Impact Windows


  1. They can be costly. Impact windows are typically more expensive than regular windows or hurricane shutters, depending on the size of your home and the type of windows you choose.
  2. They may not be suitable for every home. Some homeowners may not want to change the appearance of their home, and impact windows may not match the style or architecture of the property.

Hurricane Shutters: What Are They And Do I Need Them If I Already Have Hurricane Windows?


Hurricane shutters are a temporary cover that you install over your windows to protect them during a storm. There are several types of hurricane shutters available, including:


  1. Accordion shutters: These shutters are permanently installed on either side of your window and can be easily opened and closed when needed.
  2. Roll-up shutters: These shutters are stored in a box above your window and can be rolled down when needed.
  3. Plywood shutters: These shutters are made of plywood and are the most affordable option, but they require more effort to install and remove.

Pros of Hurricane Shutters


  1. They are more affordable. Hurricane shutters are typically more affordable than impact windows, making them a popular option for homeowners on a budget.
  2. They come in different styles. There are several types of hurricane shutters to choose from, including accordion shutters, roll-up shutters, and plywood shutters, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs.
  3. They provide additional protection. Hurricane shutters provide an extra layer of protection for your windows during a storm, reducing the risk of damage from flying debris.

Cons of Hurricane Shutters


  1. They require installation and removal. Unlike impact windows, hurricane shutters require installation and removal each season, which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive.
  2. They can detract from your home's appearance. Hurricane shutters can change the appearance of your home, which may not be desirable for some homeowners.

So, Do I Need Hurricane Shutters If I Have Impact Windows?


Based on the information presented above, it is safe to say that you do not need hurricane shutters if you have impact windows. Impact windows provide effective protection against high winds, flying debris, and other weather-related hazards that are commonly associated with hurricanes. The laminated glass used in impact windows is designed to withstand significant impacts without breaking, making them a reliable and long-lasting option for homeowners in hurricane-prone regions.


Additionally, impact windows offer year-round protection, eliminating the need to install and remove hurricane shutters each season. While hurricane shutters may be more affordable than impact windows, the time and effort required to install and remove them can be a significant inconvenience for many homeowners.


In conclusion, if you have impact windows, you do not need hurricane shutters. Impact windows offer effective protection against hurricanes and other severe weather events, and they provide several other benefits, such as noise reduction and enhanced security. However, it is essential to ensure that your impact windows are installed correctly and meet the necessary building codes and standards to provide optimal protection for your home.



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Have you ever experienced a hurricane? If so, you understand how much damage it may cause to your home and how much money you will have to incur in doing repairs. In these cases, home insurance may help a lot. But, do impact windows reduce insurance? Yes, you can make significant savings on insurance when you choose to install impact windows. Will Home Insurance Cover Windows? By installing high-quality impact windows, not only can it be beneficial in case of a hurricane or major windstorms, but it can also lower your homeowner's insurance amount. If you add an extra level of protection to your property, you will invest in an extra level of security. It may even help you to qualify for a discount when it comes to using your home insurance. Typically, your insurer can offer you the necessary information regarding the discounts you can have and the percentage. Reasons to Invest in Impact Windows Are you living in hurricane-prone areas such as Tampa, Florida? It would be wise to invest in top-grade hurricane impact windows. That is why you should hire an expert and reputable windows installation company like Tampa Replacement Windows. They specialize in replacing and installing windows and doors on your house to offer maximum security and protection from storms and hurricanes. Their services include impact windows installations and the necessary finishing jobs. Generally, you can select from a wide variety of high-profile doors and windows that best suit your requirements. Impact windows cost will generally vary on the style and type you choose. How Do You Get a Discount for Impact Windows? Since Florida is exceedingly prone to hurricanes and windstorms, insurance companies are usually legally bound to offer their insurers protected home discounts. Windows are typically the most affordable adaptations you can have on your property since they might give you the highest discount. In the event of a hurricane, doors and windows are the most vulnerable parts that may cause much damage. That is why installing impact windows can help you save substantial money in the end. It’s prudent that you talk with your insurer and learn about the requirements that you’ll have to get to qualify for a discount. Do Impact Windows Reduce Insurance? By How Much? This may sound unreal, but installing impact windows may save you up to $10,000 per year! In case you have been looking at how you can save money on home insurance, then this is the ideal way. Upgrading all your doors and windows to hurricane impact ones will offer you the highest level of security and, ultimately, you won’t need to bother yourself about your safety. More so, it will allow your eligibility for annual discounts on your home insurance. By contacting your insurance company, you’ll get more info on what you have to do to receive your discount. Based on where you live ad your insurance type, you might even reduce your premiums by half. And if you qualify for discounts, they might continue annually. However, consulting your insurance company will give you more details for calculating the overall amount you could save. Impact windows are a significant investment for homeowners living in a storm and hurricane-prone areas. Although securing your property in every possible way must be your priority, why not save mo ney along the way?
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By Dave Charron • March 11, 2021
What Are Impact Windows: Everything You Need To Know If you own a home in Tampa Florida, there are numerous options available to protect your house from flying debris and hurricane winds. Impact-resistant glass windows are one of these solutions. Today impact windows have become more of a commonplace across Florida since they are highly effective and the building codes now stipulate that new constructions must come equipped with either impact windows or hurricane shutters. What Are Impact Windows? Today impact-resistant windows are available in two types. The first is a shatter-resistant film window. This involves a transparent film placed on either side of the window or glass. The film is designed to keep the glass intact by not allowing it to break. Even though the materials that were used to make this film has undergone updates, this was the initial way impact-resistant technology was created. If your windows do break due to flying objects or debris, the glass will remain intact. The second type includes inner-membrane technology. This process uses 2 glass slabs pressed together with a PVB (polyvinyl butaryl) layer between them. PVB is a rubber-like clear material similar to a very strong adhesive. This layer keeps the glass together if it shatters. From security to hurricane protection, impact windows have become a wise investment to offer protection for your home and family. What Are Impact Windows And Its Benefits #1 Storm Protection When installed correctly, impact windows can provide the ultimate protection for the interiors of a home even in severe storms. #2 Security The strength of the glass in impact windows is not only effective to keep you safe in a hurricane, but also make break-ins or burglaries more unlikely and harder. The 2 layers of glass and the interlayer in impact windows make them very difficult to break. #3 Save Money Impact windows can also assist with reflecting heat from the outside and regulate the temperature inside your house. You can also choose a tint for your impact windows, which also a highly effective method to lower your energy costs which helps you to save money on your electric bills. Tinted glass helps to absorb solar radiation, which reduces light and heat transfer into your home. #4 Less Noise Impact windows are not only useful for protecting your home against elements such as strong winds, hail, and storms, but they can also significantly reduce noise from outside. Your home should be your sanctuary, and you can turn into a secure fortress without sacrificing the visual appeal, with reliable impact windows. #5 Lower UV Rays When you have your impact windows professionally installed, the glass that is used will allow light transmission without harmful UV radiation. These windows are capable of filtering out 90% of UV rays which can help to protect your valuables from fading, such as your carpets, artwork, drapes, and furniture. This is extremely important in areas such as Florida since direct sunlight is something that we commonly experience through all the seasons of the year. Impact glass is a must i n an area like Florida.
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