Florida is known as “The Sunshine State,” but it’s also home to frequent and dangerous hurricanes. If your home is in an area that experiences severe weather conditions, it’s important to protect it with impact-resistant windows.
Local window installation professionals can help you select the best windows for your home. Some of the most common types are double-hung and sliding windows. Other options include casement and awning windows.
Impact-resistant windows
Impact-resistant windows help protect homes in coastal areas against hurricanes and other severe storms. These windows use laminated glass to reduce damage to the home and to your family. They also improve home energy efficiency and security.
A special polymer layer located between two panes of glass provides reinforcement, so the window doesn’t shatter during a storm. This prevents debris from entering the house and causing serious injury or property damage. In addition, impact-resistant windows are stronger than traditional windows and can resist pressure from winds that cause roof damage and even lift a house’s roof.
Laminated glass in impact windows also blocks UV rays, which can fade furniture and carpets and damage skin. This feature helps you save on your energy costs by lowering HVAC usage. In addition, the aluminum frames of impact windows resist corrosion and rust. They also have an insulated core that decreases noise transmission and creates a quieter living environment.
HOA-compliant windows
Homeowners associations care about the style, color, and type of replacement windows they approve. This is because they want to maintain the aesthetic uniformity of a neighborhood. This type of consistency also helps increase resale values.
While the HOA approval process may feel cumbersome to condo owners, it’s worth it for the benefits of energy efficiency and aesthetically pleasing windows. Energy-efficient double-pane windows are a good choice because they provide more insulation than single-pane windows and reduce air leakage.
A reputable window installer should have experience working with HOA communities, and they should be able to help you comply with the guidelines of your homeowners association. They can answer any questions you might have and provide you with a window installation that meets your needs. They can also recommend colors that will look good with your existing frame and trim. This will help you avoid a costly mistake that can result in expensive legal fees.
Energy-efficient windows
Energy-efficient windows provide a number of advantages for homeowners, including lower energy costs and improved comfort. These windows feature multiple panes of glass separated by a spacer that reduces heat transfer and boosts insulation. This makes them a wise investment, even though they typically cost more upfront than traditional windows.
These windows also block harmful UV rays, which can damage furniture and artwork over time. As a result, they can help protect your heirlooms from irreversible damage and preserve their color and texture.
When shopping for energy-efficient windows, be sure to look for the ENERGY STAR label and NFRC ratings to ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money. Also, be sure to replace all windows in your home when upgrading to energy-efficient models, as mixing windows with different thermal properties can create disparities in performance.
Custom windows
Custom windows can give your house a unique look. They also allow more light to enter the home and reduce energy bills. The new frames and glass also protect the interiors from harsh rays, humidity, rain, and severe weather. The windows come in a variety of styles, such as casement and awning. Those hinged at one side are called casement windows, while those that swing out are awning windows.
The windows you choose should have a label from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). The label will indicate the U-factor, or how well it keeps heat out of your home, and the solar heat gain coefficient, which is how effectively it prevents sunlight from heating up your home. Energy-efficient windows can save you 12% on your energy bills. They also help reduce indirect greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the amount of energy used to cool and heat your home. In addition, the noise from outside is reduced, making your home a more serene place to live.