Serving St. Lucie, Okeechobee, Indian River and Brevard Counties.
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Protecting Your Home in Florida with Impact Windows or Hurricane Shutters
If you live in Florida or another hurricane-prone region, storm protection is a top priority. When choosing the best defense for your home the debate often comes down to impact windows versus hurricane shutters. While both provide storm protection, impact windows offer long-term benefits that go far beyond hurricane season.
What You Need to Know About Impact Windows
Impact windows also called hurricane impact windows are built with laminated safety glass and a durable interlayer usually polyvinyl butyral (PVB) to prevent shattering under pressure or impact. These windows are tested to withstand wind speeds of 100 plus miles per hour and remain intact even when cracked.
Benefits of impact windows include:
- Built-in hurricane protection
- UV resistance and energy efficiency
- Continuous protection with no installation or removal needed
- Enhanced security against break-ins
What You Should Know About Hurricane Shutters
Hurricane shutters are external coverings mounted over your existing windows. They come in different styles like storm panels, roll-downs or accordion shutters and are made from materials such as aluminum, steel or polycarbonate.
While hurricane shutters protect against flying debris, they:
- Must be manually installed before each storm
- Block natural light when in use
- Do not reinforce the window glass itself
- Can obstruct emergency exits if damaged or blocked
Five Reasons Why Impact Windows Are the Smarter Investment
Always Ready Even When You Are Away
Unlike hurricane shutters, impact windows don’t require any last-minute preparation. Whether you’re on vacation or at work, your home is always protected.
Superior Structural Performance
Hurricane rated windows are installed as part of your home’s structure. This strengthens the building envelope and reduces the risk of pressure build-up that can lead to catastrophic roof or wall failure during major storms.
Safety During Power Outages
When shutters are up and the power goes out, your home becomes dark and potentially unsafe. Impact windows allow natural light in and don’t block emergency exits.
Year-Round Benefits Beyond Storm Protection
Impact windows provide noise reduction, energy savings through better insulation, UV protection for your furniture and floors, and enhanced home security from intruders.
Low Maintenance and Long-Term Value
Impact windows require minimal upkeep and increase your home’s curb appeal and value. Many Florida homeowners also enjoy insurance discounts by upgrading to hurricane impact windows.
Hurricane Shutters versus Hurricane Impact Windows: The Verdict
Hurricane shutters are a temporary fix. They can protect your windows during a storm but they require manual effort, offer no energy savings and don’t add much value to your home.
Impact windows provide permanent 24/7 storm protection, long-term energy efficiency, better security and noise control and increased resale value and potential insurance savings.
For Florida homeowners seeking the best in storm safety and home performance, impact windows are the superior choice.
Upgrade Your Storm Protection with H&M Impact Window and Door
At H&M Impact Window and Door, we specialize in installing hurricane rated impact windows across Florida’s Treasure Coast. Our expert team ensures your home is protected, energy-efficient and beautiful all year long.
Contact us today for a free consultation and see how our premium storm proof window solutions can give you peace of mind this hurricane season and beyond.
