5 Facts About Hurricane Windows in Melbourne, Florida

People who live in Melbourne, Florida, are all too familiar with hurricanes. According to Hurricane Science, Hurricane Wilma caused Florida $29 billion worth of damage. It affected the public infrastructure, caused flooding, and damaged citrus and sugar cane crops. As a result, Hurricane Wilma’s damages were ranked among the highest hurricane damage in the US.

Those living in Florida have already taken precautions for when a storm hits. They know how to board up their windows and doors to prevent the glass from breaking. However, technological advancements mean they no longer need to waste precious time nailing plywood to their windows.

Making the switch from storm shutters to impact windows won’t only save you time. But they offer more protection than traditional methods used in the past. They are engineered to be much stronger and more durable than standard glass windows. And give you peace of mind when a storm hits.

With that in mind, here are five facts you should know about hurricane windows so you can protect your home during storm season.

Hurricane windows are laminated

Impact windows are hurricane resistant but not hurricane proof. This is because they are made using laminated glass, which bonds two or more panes of glass together with a thin layer of film or vinyl. However, this does not make hurricane windows shatter-proof. Instead, the film catches any shattered glass like sticky paper.

To be certified as impact-resistant, replacement windows must pass the large and/or small missile impact tests necessary for an accurate impact rating. However, even if laminated glass cracks or breaks, it doesn’t mean it can no longer protect your home. The security glass can be retrofitted over your existing windows to keep your regular windows safe during storms.

Impact windows and doors don’t need to be activated

As soon as a hurricane is announced in Florida, everyone scrambles to stock up on essentials and prepare their homes for the worst. However, the fewer things you have to worry about, the better as you can focus on other essential things.

Unlike storm shutters or panels, hurricane windows and impact doors don’t need to be engaged before a storm hits. So instead of worrying about protecting your home, you can focus on other storm preparations. Likewise, if you are away when a storm is due to hit your home, the windows are already in place, so you don’t have to rush home to secure your house.

Replacement windows can actually save you money

Besides protecting your home from water damage and windborne debris, impact windows can bring your costs down in a number of ways. For example, some people reported spending less on their energy bills after installing hurricane windows. In addition, they block out UV rays, making your home cooler, so homeowners don’t need to use their HVAC systems as often.

You may even be able to save money on your home insurance as the security windows can also prevent thieves from breaking in. Thieves often gain entrance to a house by breaking a window. However, as impact windows are harder to smash, they are less likely to break into your home.

Impact windows need to be replaced after 25 years

Eventually, things in your home will reach their use-by date and need to be replaced. Hurricane windows and impact doors also need to be replaced after a certain timeframe to ensure your home is fully protected. Depending on the brand and material, they are designed to last from 10 to 25 years before needing to be replaced.

It’s important to evaluate your windows and doors after 10 years have passed since you installed them. That’s because their seals start to wear away, and the strength of the glass panels becomes weaker. And if you leave it too late to get them replaced, they could cause more damage to your home during a storm.

There are many misunderstandings about replacement windows and impact doors

Floridians are told several myths about impact windows. For example, some believe security windows need to be cracked to prevent air pressure from building up inside your home. However, open windows will cause significant damage to your house as it lets water and wind get inside. Similarly, some think that putting a barrier on the inside of their property will stop the door from blowing in. But an impact door will prevent the door from being ripped off its hinges during a storm.

Another huge misconception about replacement windows is that they cost a fortune. The truth is that it depends on the number of windows in your home and the sizing. Some people spend thousands to replace every single window in their house. However, it depends if your home is built in a hurricane-prone area or if one side of the building is more protected.

Selecting the best impact windows for your home

Minimizing hurricane damage and permanent protection during storm season is a life saver - it can save you money in the long run and offer safety for your family. If you’re ready to switch to impact windows and doors, then Wallaby Windows is on standby to help you find the perfect fit.