Those living in hurricane-prone areas know the importance of a home with windows and doors reinforced with impact glass. But what exactly makes these windows different from your standard glass panes? For starters, they’re tough. They’re built to withstand direct “attacks” like debris from wind-borne debris and can even resist the force of a bullet.
Impact-resistant windows are an excellent choice for homeowners seeking added safety and durability, especially in areas prone to severe weather. These windows are designed to withstand high winds and impact, offering peace of mind and reducing the need for frequent repairs. To learn more about Maverick Windows and available replacement options, explore solutions that enhance both protection and style for your home.
Impact Resistant Glass
Impact-resistant glass is an excellent way to safeguard your home and property in areas prone to hurricanes and severe storms. Impact resistant windows, which are made to prevent flying debris during these kinds of natural calamities, will shield your furniture and drapes from sun damage and lessen outside and traffic noise to provide a quieter environment.
Many counties have adopted building codes requiring impact windows for new construction and replacement windows. But if you don’t live in a high-risk zone, installing impact windows is still an intelligent choice. These windows are made to withstand the force of flying debris during severe weather and even the abuse of attempted break-ins. You can watch videos online of impact glass withstanding baseball bats, crowbars and even sledgehammers without shattering. This type of resistance to forced entry is especially important for a homeowner looking to increase their security and deter crime.
The Frame
We’ve all seen the horror stories of 2x4s speared through a window or furniture and belongings sucked out through a broken glass pane. Hurricanes, tornadoes and even straight-line wind can cause massive damage to homes without the right protective measures. These windows are thicker than traditional glass and have sturdy laminations that keep them together instead of shattering into dangerous shards. They also create an effective barrier against forced entry attempts. It’s easy to find videos of impact-resistant glass withstanding abuse from baseball bats and hammers online. As if the safety and security benefits aren’t enough, impact windows with laminated glass also provide energy efficiency and UV protection. They’re a great addition to any home anywhere in the country that faces severe weather and other potential dangers like burglaries. They’re a smart investment that will increase the value of your home and help you rest easier knowing you’re protected.
The Glass
Hurricanes, tornadoes, and straight-line winds can shatter windows and cause property damage. We’ve all seen the heartbreaking post-storm photos of 2x4s speared through a window and furniture and belongings sucked in and scattered around a home. Impact-resistant windows provide the best defense against such catastrophic severe weather. A strong polymer layer inserted between two panes of glass gives impact windows their ability to resist large forces. Even if the outer glass shatters, the inner laminate layer holds it together and keeps your home safe.
Additionally, the insulating properties of impact glass make your home more energy efficient. You may cut your energy expenditures by blocking hot air from entering in the summer and cold air from leaving in the winter. They also help protect your furnishings and wall adornments from the sun’s harmful UV rays that fade fabrics, paint, and wallpaper.
The Bottom Line
When impact-resistant glass breaks, it shatters into small pebbles instead of causing large, sharp pieces that could cause injury. It helps reduce damage to property and injuries during a storm. It is especially important for homes in hurricane-prone areas. The glass used in impact windows is made by blending tempered and laminated glass with an inner layer of a material like polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This combination produces a window strong enough to resist severe winds, flying debris, and other impacts from extreme weather events.
Aside from protecting your home from destructive winds, impact windows offer a few other benefits that can make them a great choice for any homeowner. For example, impact windows help block out noise from outside. It can benefit residents living in cities with constant traffic and other exterior sounds. They also reduce harmful UV rays that can fade draperies, furniture and carpets over time.
