As the name suggests, these windows hinge on one side and open outward like a door by cranking a handle. They’re easy to open in hard-to-reach places such as above sinks or high up in bathrooms.
They’re also impact-resistant to protect against debris and flying objects during a hurricane. Keep reading to find out what makes these windows a smart investment for homeowners in Miami FL.
Impact Resistance
In Miami, many homeowners install impact windows to protect their homes from intruders and severe weather. These windows are made from laminated insulating glass and have a polyvinyl butyral interlayer that prevents shattering, penetration, and air infiltration during a hurricane. They also reduce noise, UV rays, and add extra home security.
Impact casement windows are hinged on one side and open outward like a door. They can be opened with a crank handle and are perfect for hard-to-reach places, such as windows over sinks or in cabinets. They are easy to clean and provide a good view of the outside.
There are several brands of impact windows, but PGT is a popular choice for Florida homeowners. Their WinGuard impact windows are sleek and attractive and come in a variety of colors and styles. They are made of composite, which combines wood fibers and PVC polymers to form a strong and long-lasting product. They are also energy-efficient and meet code requirements for homeowners who want to qualify for tax deductions.
Low-E Glass
Low-E glass minimizes the amount of infrared and ultraviolet light that passes through your windows. It does this by using a super-thin transparent coating that’s designed to reflect heat back inside your home. This reduces energy loss and helps your heating and cooling systems stay more efficient over time.
This microscopically thin coating is also known to protect your furniture, fabrics and carpeting from harmful UV rays. This will prevent your furnishings from fading and keep them looking newer longer.
In some cases, this coating is used along with argon gas fills in multi-pane windows to further increase energy efficiency. Argon gas has a higher density than air and makes it harder for heat to pass through your window glass.
Another advantage of casement windows is that they open outward using a crank instead of sliding up and down. This means you don’t have to worry about the mechanism corroding over time or breaking down during a storm.
Insulated Glass
Unlike sliding windows, which have one pane of glass, casement windows are hinged on one side and open by cranking a handle. They are ideal for hard-to-reach areas, like above sinks or high up in bathrooms. They can also be combined with sliding windows to create a better insulated house.
They can be used to maximize ventilation in your home, especially during a strong storm. This is because they can be opened outward and will allow the cool breeze to flow inside of your house.
Insulated glass is made of two or more panes of glass that are separated by a spacer and filled with air or gas. This provides insulation and limits the transfer of heat in and out of your home, helping you to save energy. Insulated glass is usually sold in complete units, called insulating glass units (IGUs). They are sealed in such a way that they cannot be taken apart, so the glass and frame remain intact even when subject to a hurricane.
Aluminum Frame
Aluminum framed impact windows are ideal for Florida’s wet climate. They have a long life-cycle and won’t corrode. The aluminum frames are anodized & painted with premium paint for longevity.
Unlike a single hung window which only opens half-way, casement windows open outward by cranking a handle. This type of window maximizes ventilation & is perfect for hard-to-reach areas such as above cabinets or counters.
A quality installer can provide homeowners with a wide range of financing options to help them cover the upfront costs of hurricane-resistant impact windows & doors. These plans are an excellent way to pay for the upgrades while reducing stress and improving cash flow over time. These payment plans are available through industry-leading lenders. Homeowners can get approved in minutes & start their project as soon as possible.