Miami FL is a hurricane-prone area where residents need protection from severe weather. Impact windows comply with strict Miami-Dade and Broward county building codes, ensuring your home can withstand flying debris and high winds during storms.
Quality installation is essential for long-term window performance, so choose a company that has extensive experience with this task. Reputable companies know detailed local building codes, use premium Conservation Windows products, and offer double lifetime warranties.
High-Impact Glass
If you live in a hurricane-prone area, impact windows are one of the best investments you can make for your home. In addition to protecting your home from severe weather and wind-borne debris, they also offer high-performance energy efficiency that can save you on your heating and cooling costs. Plus, they keep your possessions safe from harmful UV rays that fade window treatments and damage furniture.
Impact windows consist of a heavy-duty frame with laminated glass that has an internal plastic layer. This makes them far less likely to shatter, even from a direct blow. That’s why they can withstand the pressures that are generated during hurricanes and other severe storms.
In fact, the building codes of many hurricane-prone areas require that you install impact windows in your home. If you’re not in a hurricane-prone area, however, you can still enjoy the peace of mind and safety that these windows provide. They also reduce noise and can help to lower your insurance premiums.
Impact-Resistant Glass
Hurricanes and other severe storms are commonplace in the Miami FL area, so investing in impact-resistant windows is a necessity. These windows and doors offer protection against flying debris, as well as enhance security by making it harder for burglars to break in. They also improve energy efficiency, helping homeowners save on their utility bills.
When buying impact glass, you should pay close attention to the details, such as the design pressure (DP) rating and how it compares to other options. This number represents the window’s ability to withstand hurricane-force winds, as well as a ball bearing strike at a specific speed.
Another factor to consider is laminated or insulated glass. The latter offers enhanced protection by combining the strength of tempered glass with laminated film, which adds an additional layer of safety against forced entry. This option also blocks harsh UV rays that can fade drapes, carpet, and furniture over time. Some companies even offer tints that reflect infrared and ultraviolet rays, allowing homeowners to save on their energy bill while protecting their interiors from harmful glare.
Energy-Efficient Glass
Choosing energy-efficient glass helps you save money on your utility bills. It also reduces fading of furniture and decor due to UV rays. It also minimizes the amount of outside noise coming into your home, providing a more comfortable living environment.
Typically, the higher the R-value of the window, the more insulation it has. R-value is determined by calculating the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures. You should always look at the U-factor value for the entire window, not just the center of the glass, when comparing products and manufacturers.
Investing in coated double or triple-pane windows improves thermal efficiency and can help lower energy costs. The argon gas in the sealed double or triple panes prevents heat from escaping during colder weather and keeps it inside during warmer seasons. Proper installation is essential to maximize the benefits of this type of glazing. A poor seal may allow air leaks that affect energy efficiency. In addition, you should regularly clean your windows to remove dirt, dust and other debris.
Frame Material
Choosing impact windows for your home will increase security and improve the aesthetics of your property. They can also save you money on utilities and may qualify you for discounts on homeowners insurance. Additionally, new windows will block out extra street noise, making your home a much more comfortable place to live in.
When shopping for impact windows, be sure to consider the frame material. Acetate frames, made from renewable materials such as wood pulp and cotton fibers, are a great choice. They can be created in a variety of colors and shapes and can be molded into curves and inclinations for added beauty.
Additionally, you should look for a company that has extensive experience installing these types of windows. USA Home Improvement, for example, employs a team of highly trained professionals who carefully measure each window opening to ensure an accurate fit and compliance with local building codes. They also conduct thorough testing on their products to verify their ability to withstand hurricane force winds and debris impacts.