If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, you know how important it is to protect your home. One of the most common questions homeowners ask is whether they need hurricane shutters if they have impact windows. The answer is not a straightforward one, as it depends on several factors.
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First, it’s important to understand the difference between hurricane shutters (including fabric shutters) and impact windows. Hurricane shutters are designed to protect windows and doors from flying debris during a storm. They come in several types, including roll-down, accordion, and panel shutters. Impact windows, on the other hand, are made of laminated glass and are designed to withstand high winds and flying debris without breaking.
While impact windows provide a high level of protection, they may not be enough on their own. In some cases, local building codes may require the use of hurricane shutters in addition to impact windows. Additionally, if you live in an area with a high risk of hurricanes, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Adding hurricane shutters to your windows and doors can provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind during a storm.
Understanding Hurricane Shutters and Impact Windows
When it comes to protecting your home from hurricanes, there are two main options: hurricane shutters and impact windows. In this section, we will explore what these options are and how they work to keep your home safe during a hurricane.
What are Hurricane Shutters?
Hurricane shutters are designed to cover windows and doors during a hurricane. They are typically made from metal, plastic or fabric and come in a variety of styles, including roll-down, accordion, and panel shutters. Hurricane shutters are designed to withstand high winds, flying debris, and heavy rain. They are also an affordable option for homeowners who want to protect their home from a hurricane.
What are Impact Windows?
Impact windows are a type of window that is designed to withstand high winds and flying debris during a hurricane. They are made from impact-resistant glass that is laminated with a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) between two layers of glass. This makes the glass much stronger than traditional window glass. Impact windows are also designed to provide thermal insulation, noise reduction, and UV protection.
While both hurricane shutters and impact windows are effective at protecting your home during a hurricane, they each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Hurricane shutters are generally less expensive than impact windows and can be installed quickly. However, they require regular maintenance and can be difficult to install for larger windows or doors. Impact windows, on the other hand, are more expensive than hurricane shutters but require less maintenance and are easier to install. They also provide additional benefits such as noise reduction and UV protection.
Ultimately, the decision to install hurricane shutters or impact windows will depend on your budget, the size of your windows and doors, and your personal preference. It is important to consult with a professional to determine which option is best for your home.
Do You Need Both Hurricane Shutters and Impact Windows?
As experts in hurricane protection, we are often asked whether both hurricane shutters and impact windows are necessary. The answer is not straightforward and depends on various factors, including your location, budget, and personal preferences. In this section, we will explore the advantages of hurricane shutters over impact windows, the advantages of impact windows over hurricane shutters, and factors to consider when choosing between the two.
Advantages of Hurricane Shutters Over Impact Windows
While impact windows are an excellent choice for hurricane protection, they may not be the most practical or cost-effective option for all homeowners. Here are some advantages of hurricane shutters:
- Cost: Hurricane shutters are generally less expensive than impact windows, making them a more affordable option for homeowners on a budget.
- Versatility: Hurricane shutters come in various styles and materials, including aluminum, steel, and fabric. This versatility allows homeowners to choose the type of shutter that best suits their needs and preferences.
- Additional Benefits: In addition to hurricane protection, some types of hurricane shutters can also provide security, privacy, and energy efficiency benefits.
Advantages of Impact Windows Over Hurricane Shutters
While hurricane shutters have their advantages, impact windows also offer unique benefits that may make them a better choice for some homeowners. Here are some advantages of impact windows:
- Convenience: Unlike hurricane shutters, impact windows do not require any manual installation or removal. Once installed, they provide year-round protection without any additional effort on the homeowner’s part.
- Aesthetics: Impact windows look like regular windows and do not require any additional aesthetic modifications to the home’s exterior. This can be a significant advantage for homeowners who want to maintain their home’s appearance.
- Additional Benefits: Impact windows can also provide noise reduction, UV protection, and energy efficiency benefits, making them a more comprehensive investment.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Hurricane Shutters and Impact Windows
When deciding between hurricane shutters and impact windows, there are several factors to consider:
| Factor | Hurricane Shutters | Impact Windows |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |
| Installation | Manual installation and removal | No installation or removal required |
| Aesthetics | May require additional aesthetic modifications | Looks like regular windows |
| Additional Benefits | May provide security, privacy, and energy efficiency benefits | May provide noise reduction, UV protection, and energy efficiency benefits |
Ultimately, the choice between hurricane shutters and impact windows depends on your specific needs and preferences. We recommend consulting with a hurricane protection expert to determine the best option for your home and budget.
Conclusion
After considering all the factors, we can confidently say that having impact windows alone is not enough to protect your home during a hurricane. While impact windows are designed to withstand high winds and flying debris, they are not impenetrable and can still shatter under extreme conditions.
Adding hurricane shutters to your home provides an extra layer of protection and can help prevent damage to your windows, doors, and other vulnerable areas. Shutters can also help reduce the risk of water damage and protect your home from intruders during a storm.
Ultimately, the decision to install hurricane shutters should be based on your individual needs and circumstances. If you live in a coastal area prone to hurricanes or have valuable possessions that you want to protect, investing in shutters may be a wise decision. However, if you live in a low-risk area and have already invested in impact windows, you may be able to forgo shutters and still feel confident in your home’s ability to withstand a storm.