Many homeowners are surprised to find out how much impact windows cost. While they are more expensive than traditional home windows, they offer several benefits, such as savings on insurance and energy costs, noise reduction, and security.
It is important to understand the different factors affecting hurricane-resistant windows’ cost. This will help homeowners make the right decision for their homes.
Cost of Glass
If you live in an area that experiences frequent hurricanes, tornadoes, or tsunamis, impact windows are a smart investment. These specialized windows protect your home from debris flying at triple-digit speeds and can reduce the risk of burglary. In addition, they can save you money on energy costs by retaining heat in winter and reducing solar heat gain in summer. They also offer UV protection, which helps keep furniture, artwork, and decor from fading.
Impact windows have thicker glass and sturdy laminations, making breaking difficult. Some impact windows have been tested to withstand abuse from baseball bats, sledgehammers, and even crowbars. They also improve insulation, which can lower your energy bills. As an added benefit, you can reduce your insurance rates by installing impact windows in your home. This is something that many insurance companies are happy to offer, so you should always check with your insurer.
Cost of Frame
Investing in impact windows to prevent damage from debris and other elements is highly recommended if you live in a hurricane-prone area. Many counties require homeowners to install impact windows if they live within certain zones.
Impact windows are extremely strong and can withstand debris blown by severe hurricane-force winds. They also offer theft prevention measures and help reduce the amount of UV rays that enter the house.
Another advantage of impact windows is that they provide enhanced noise reduction capabilities compared to traditional single-pane windows. They are also energy efficient and can save you money on utility bills. These benefits make it worth the investment. Moreover, when you are ready to sell your home, impact windows can increase its resale value. This is because buyers will pay more for homes with impact windows. They are also easier to maintain and are less likely to break down over time.
Cost of Hardware
Impact-resistant windows protect your home from hurricane-force winds and flying debris that can cause serious damage to your property. They can also qualify you for reduced homeowners insurance rates.
While impact glass may be more expensive than standard window glass, it isn’t the only component that makes up a high-performing hurricane-resistant window. The frames that hold the glass are also more substantial than traditional frames and are usually made of aluminum or vinyl.
Additionally, some impact windows are manufactured with a laminated interior layer that can reduce the amount of UV light that enters your home. This can help prevent furniture and carpeting from fading due to prolonged sun exposure. This feature can also add to the resale value of your home. To determine the best window for your home, contact an experienced contractor specializing in installing impact windows. They can offer the best solution for your specific needs and budget. They can even recommend a financing option if you need it.
Cost of Installation
If you live in a part of the country prone to severe storms, hurricanes, and other extreme weather events, it may be necessary to install impact-resistant windows. While they cost more than regular windows, they offer greater protection and help lower homeowners insurance rates.
Unlike regular glass, impact-resistant windows can withstand heavy impacts, such as a flying shingle or a bullet. This is because the window consists of laminated and tempered glass layers, which are held together by an inner layer of tough vinyl or plastic like ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) or polyvinyl butyral (PVB).
They also provide extra benefits, such as UV protection and energy efficiency, which can increase your home’s value. In addition, many impact-resistant windows come with tilting sashes that allow easy cleaning. Some companies even offer low-E and tinted options that protect furniture, carpeting, and artwork from fading due to the sun’s harmful UV rays.
