Impact Windows vs Traditional
Impact Windows vs. Traditional Windows: Which ones are for You?
Windows are a staple of any home. The traditional window comes in many shapes and sizes, from standard picture, to single and double pane, to custom architectural windows.
Although there are several different styles and types of windows, one of the most crucial decisions boils down to impact or traditional windows. Here, we break down the significant differences between the two and how they can affect homeowners.
Unrivaled Hurricane Protection
Impact Windows:
Modern engineers craft impact windows with multiple layers of reinforced glass that can withstand the powerful forces of hurricanes and tropical storms. The laminated glass construction ensures that even if the outer layer breaks, the inner layers remain intact, preventing the window from shattering into dangerous shards. This design is unparalleled in providing robust protection against high winds and flying debris, offering homeowners peace of mind during severe weather events.
Traditional Windows:
Traditional windows with single-pane or even double-pane glass lack their fortified counterparts’ structural integrity and impact resistance. Standard windows are more susceptible to breakage during hurricanes or intense storms, leading to potential safety hazards and property damage. The absence of reinforced glass makes traditional windows a less reliable option in regions prone to extreme weather conditions.
Enhanced Security Features
Impact Windows:
Beyond hurricane protection, impact windows offer enhanced security features. The reinforced glass and sturdy frames create a formidable barrier against potential break-ins. The construction of impact windows makes it significantly more challenging for would-be intruders to access your home. With impact windows you add another layer of protection for your family and valuables.
Traditional Windows:
Their single-pane construction makes traditional windows inherently more vulnerable to forced entry. The ease with which standard glass can be shattered makes them a less secure option for homeowners who are concerned about the safety of their belongings.
Noise Reduction for Peaceful Living Spaces
Impact Windows:
The multiple layers of laminated and fortified glass in impact windows serve as an effective sound barrier. This barrier minimizes outside noise and creates a more peaceful indoor environment. Some brands of impact windows contain argon gas. This gas not only boosts the energy efficiency of the windows but also dampens outside noise. This is especially preferred for homes in busy cities or near high-traffic zones, airports, or other constant noise sources.
Traditional Windows:
Traditional windows, made with single-pane glass, provide minimal insulation against sound. The lack of specialized construction makes them less effective in reducing noise pollution, potentially compromising the tranquility of your living spaces.
UV Protection for Belongings
Impact Windows:
Impact windows often come with built-in UV protection, blocking harmful ultraviolet rays. This feature helps preserve the color and integrity of your interior furnishings, preventing fading and damage caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Traditional Windows:
Traditional windows typically lack UV protection, exposing your belongings to the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays. Prolonged exposure can lead to severe fading and deterioration of furniture, flooring, and other items within your home. Even when traditional windows are double-paned, they tend to lack the additional coating and gas filling that impact windows carry and, as a result, are less efficient at UV reduction.
Energy Efficiency for Cost Savings
Impact Windows:
The advanced construction and tight seals of impact windows contribute to improved home energy efficiency. By minimizing air leakage, impact windows lessen the strain on your home’s HVAC unit, leading to lower energy bills and a substantially reduced carbon footprint.
Traditional Windows:
Their single-pane design makes traditional windows less effective at insulating homes, leading to increased energy consumption and additional wear and tear on your home’s heating and cooling systems. Ultimately, standard windows can result in higher energy bills for homeowners.
Insurance Premium Discounts
Impact Windows:
Many insurance providers recognize the added protection that impact windows offer and may provide discounts on homeowners’ insurance premiums.
Traditional Windows:
Traditional windows, lacking the specialized construction of impact windows, may not qualify for the same insurance premium discounts. Even new windows, if they aren’t category-5 rated, may not qualify for discounts.
If you want to purchase new windows for your home, check with your insurance company to find out if there are any savings for new windows.
Conclusion: A Superior Choice for Safety and Performance
In conclusion, comparing impact windows and traditional windows highlights the superior features and benefits that impact windows bring. Whether it’s unrivaled hurricane protection, enhanced security features, noise reduction, UV protection, energy efficiency, or potential insurance premium discounts, impact windows are a comprehensive solution for homeowners seeking to fortify their homes.
As a seller of impact windows and doors, Florida Window & Door is dedicated to providing homeowners with a product that meets and exceeds their expectations. Investing in impact windows is worthwhile for your home’s safety, security, and overall well-being.
If your home needs impact windows for hurricane season, then click below to contact us and schedule your FREE home assessment:
Contact Florida Window & Door for a free 30-day quote. Let our team guide you through the process – from assessing your home’s needs to the final installation. Our team is committed to quality and customer satisfaction. For over 30 years, we’ve been the go-to for hurricane-protective products throughout Florida. Invest in your home’s safety and security and install impact windows and doors. Call Florida Window & Door today!
