Replacing windows is a significant home improvement that can significantly improve your property’s aesthetics and increase its resale value. However, it’s important to choose the right window replacement option for your home.
Residents in Miami-Dade County are familiar with the damage caused by hurricanes and other extreme weather. To safeguard their homes, many opt for impact windows or shutters.
Impact windows
Many homeowners in South Florida are concerned about the effects of hurricanes and storms on their homes. These storms can bring strong winds and flying debris that can damage their home’s windows. To protect their homes and family members, they should invest in impact windows.
These windows are made from laminated glass with a durable liner called polyvinyl butyral. They are designed to resist shattering when hit by wind borne debris during a severe hurricane or storm. They also provide a layer of insulation that can help lower their energy bills.
Choosing the right impact windows is an important investment for any homeowner in Miami, Florida. It’s essential to find a company that offers high-quality products, excellent customer support and a warranty to ensure your peace of mind. Additionally, they should offer a variety of options to meet the unique needs of your home. They should be able to custom-specify the appropriate impact window for your climate and installation site.
Hurricane windows
Hurricane windows are built to withstand Florida’s tropical storms and hurricanes, protecting your family while increasing the value of your home. They feature laminated glass that combines two strong panes with a polymer fitted in between. These windows withstand the impact of debris during a storm and resist breaking into sharp shards. They also reduce noise and block UV rays, making them ideal for Miami homeowners.
They’re available in a variety of styles, from gliding horizontal sliders to casement windows that open outward with a crank mechanism. They allow you to enjoy scenic views while adding a modern touch to your home. They’re also energy-efficient and offer a tight seal that helps lower utility bills.
They’re the best option for residents of high-velocity hurricane zones such as Miami. They meet Miami-Dade’s stringent requirements and can help you save on insurance costs. They also protect your family from intruders, as they can’t break through the hard and sturdy glass.
Energy-efficient windows
Energy-efficient windows are a great way to reduce your home’s energy costs and carbon footprint. They are designed to minimize the transfer of heat or cold between your home and the outside air, making them a good choice for many climates. They also offer a wide range of other benefits, including enhanced comfort and lower maintenance requirements.
They are constructed with durable frame materials such as vinyl, wood, fiberglass clad, and aluminum, which help them stand up to harsh weather conditions and resist damage over time. They also feature Low-E glass coatings that reflect UV rays and keep the interior of your home cool in summer.
These windows are rated for energy efficiency by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), with a U-factor rating that corresponds to your region’s climate. They also include warm-edge spacer bars that help to insulate the edges of the glass and provide structural support. This helps to reduce heat transfer and prevent condensation.
Wood windows
When it comes to your home, few decisions are as impactful as choosing the right windows. They can influence how your home looks, its energy efficiency and even how much it might sell for down the line. Choosing the right window material is also an important factor to consider, with wood, fiberglass and vinyl all offering distinct benefits and challenges.
Wood is a classic choice, with its timeless beauty and natural warmth. It’s also a sustainable option, and unlike fiberglass or vinyl, it can be refinished to protect against swelling, cracking and rot. Wood requires some extra maintenance, but the added effort is well worth it. It’s a good idea to re-stain or paint wood at least twice a year to help protect it from the elements. In addition, it’s important to inspect the weather stripping regularly for signs of damage or wear and tear. Ensure that it’s still providing a tight seal. This will prevent air leaks and improve the efficiency of your windows.