Homeowners in Miami FL seek replacement windows that can withstand severe weather events such as hurricane-force winds, torrential rains and high-velocity flying debris. In addition, they look for a window option that offers aesthetics and security.
Florida building codes require impact-rated windows for homes in the high-velocity hurricane zone. To ensure that the product you choose meets these strict standards, look for a Florida product approval label.
Impact-Resistant Glass
In Florida and other hurricane-prone areas, severe weather can bring destructive forces. That’s why it’s important to protect your home with impact-resistant glass windows and doors. They can also save you money on your insurance premiums and enhance your home’s beauty and value.
These windows consist of two pieces of glass sealed to an inner polymer layer that is incredibly strong. If the window is hit by debris hurled at high wind speeds, it may shatter, but the polymer will keep the broken pieces of glass from flying around your home and injuring anyone inside.
Additionally, impact-resistant glass can shield draperies and rugs from sun damage. It also reduces outside noise, making your home more tranquil. You can even order it with tints to minimize warming effects from sunlight. As a result, you can enjoy your home’s beauty and peace of mind all year round. Contact an impact-glass manufacturer today for a free estimate.
Energy-Efficient Design
The windows in your home are essential to the comfort and beauty of your home, but they also have an important role in controlling energy costs. Choosing high-quality impact energy efficient windows will increase your home’s value, reduce maintenance costs and save you money in the long run.
In Florida, it is particularly important to select windows with a low solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) and a low U-factor. These values indicate how quickly a window will lose heat to the outside, and insulates to maintain comfortable interior temperatures.
Additionally, look for a thermally broken framing system, weather stripping, and a certified air leakage rating of 0.30 cfm/ft2 or lower. Also consider clad frames that combine wood with vinyl or aluminum to reduce maintenance requirements. In addition, a glazed unit should have a low-E coating to reduce the absorption of ultraviolet rays and help protect furniture, fabrics and artwork. Combined with shade devices, the right windows can provide natural daylighting while keeping the heat out.
Durability
Florida is a hurricane and storm-prone region and homeowners must be prepared for the worst weather conditions. Your windows need to be able to withstand strong winds and debris tossed from the air.
Impact windows are effective windstorm protective systems recognized by major insurance companies. This recognition allows homeowners to obtain premium discounts that significantly lower the cost of installation.
Authentic impact windows feature a tempered glass pane that has been strengthened with an interlayer of PVB resin. They must pass large missile and debris impact tests and pressure and water infiltration testing.
They provide unmatched protection against powerful rain and high winds, making them ideal for South Florida residents. They also reduce the noise coming from outside and block harmful UV rays that can cause fading to rugs, furniture, artwork, and photos. They also offer 24/7 security that will keep your property safe from break-ins. They are a smart investment that can increase the value of your home and make it easier to sell.
Security
The impact-resistant glass used in hurricane proof windows and doors is thicker than traditional window glass, which means that burglars won’t be able to break them with a 2X4. This added layer of protection adds another barrier between you and potential thieves. If a thief or burglar realizes that they’re going to have to spend more time breaking into a home with these stronger windows, they may choose to look for an easier target elsewhere.
Impact-resistant windows also help protect your furniture and carpets from fading due to intense sunlight. This is especially important in Florida, where the sun can be very hot and strong. The specialized materials that are used in impact windows and doors also help to insulate your house, which can reduce your energy bills by keeping the cool air inside your home during the summer.
When looking for impact windows for your Miami FL home, be sure to work with a knowledgeable installer and get all of the information you need about the product options, installation process, and which manufacturers produce the highest quality products. Ask to see the Florida Product Approval and Miami-Dade NOA certifications before making a purchase.