The Complete Guide to Hurricane-Resistant Windows

Impact Resistant Glass

Hurricane season starts June 1, and for luxury homes, true peace of mind starts with the glass. This guide walks you through the essentials of hurricane-resistant windows and doors—from materials to testing to benefits—so you can select the best glass for luxury homes without compromising design.

What are Hurricane Windows?

Hurricane windows, also known as storm-proof windows, are specifically designed to withstand the forces of a hurricane. Unlike standard windows, which can shatter under pressure, hurricane windows are constructed to endure high winds and flying debris. Their primary function is to protect the building’s integrity, reduce damage and prevent injury during storms. In the event that they do break, they are also designed to not shatter.

What Makes Windows Hurricane Resistant?

The strength of hurricane-resistant windows lies in their construction. They typically feature laminated glass—multiple layers of glass bonded together with polymer interlayers, such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB)—which enhances their durability and impact resistance.

Insulated laminated glass provides greater energy efficiency as it’s constructed with an air pocket sealed between the layers of glass. The design for both laminated and insulated laminated hurricane windows includes robust frames and anchoring systems, which helps keep windows securely in place during severe storms.

Grading and Testing Hurricane Resistant Windows

Designed to meet specific wind and impact resistance standards, all our products are Florida Building Approved and hurricane-resistant windows are graded on various levels. This includes ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) and Missile Impact ratings, which indicate the glass’s ability to withstand different forces. Here at VistaView, we consistently test new sizes and products in the lab to meet the ever growing demand of the modern home with larger windows and openings, to ensure the best possible product.

Hurricane windows undergo rigorous testing based on industry standards to ensure their effectiveness. Testing protocols typically involve subjecting the windows to high winds and impact from projectiles to simulate real hurricane conditions. When choosing hurricane-resistant windows, look for certifications such as those compliant with the Florida Building Code, which guarantees they meet strict guidelines.

Benefits Beyond Storm Protection

Luxury homes in hurricane-prone areas like Florida don’t have to sacrifice style for performance. Everything from floor-to-ceiling windows to sliding doors to fixed casement windows can be constructed to withstand the brute force of hurricanes.

Besides protecting against severe weather, hurricane-resistant windows and doors offer additional benefits, such as:

Enhanced security due to being more difficult for intruders to break glass
Lower utility bills and greater energy efficiency due to better insulation
Noticeable noise reduction due to robust construction

Initial Costs vs. Long-term Savings

Investing in hurricane glass involves weighing initial costs against long-term benefits. While hurricane-resistant windows can be more expensive upfront, they offer lasting durability and invaluable protection that can negate the need for expensive repairs after storms. The longevity of hurricane-resistant windows often justifies the investment as well, as they are built to last for decades with regular cleaning of the windows and hardware.

Potential Insurance Benefits

Many insurance companies recognize the added protection that hurricane windows offer, potentially leading to reductions in homeowner insurance premiums. To benefit from these savings, most insurances ask for a wind mitigation inspection after you have impact windows so they can apply a discount to your insurance.

Protect Luxury Homes

Hurricane-resistant windows and doors are indispensable for luxury homes that may experience severe storms. What’s more, the benefits in terms of safety and long-term savings are substantial. Call our team today at 954.784.6900 to find out more or fill out the form below.

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