Living in a hurricane-prone area like Florida means preparing for the inevitable. When a hurricane rages through our region, you’ll need to protect your home. As you explore hurricane protection options, you might consider shutters vs windows.
But when it comes to safeguarding your home, what’s the best choice? Hurricane shutters or impact windows? The truth is that there are many aspects to consider when investing in shutters vs windows, ranging from protection capabilities to cost.
Stay tuned as we explore the world of hurricane shutters vs impact windows!
About Hurricane Shutters and Impact Windows
Before we dive into the cost comparison, let’s first understand what hurricane shutters and impact windows are.
Both are designed to protect your home during a storm. But they function differently and come with their own sets of pros and cons.
What Are Hurricane Shutters?
Hurricane shutters are a popular choice for storm protection. They are are protective coverings installed on the outside of windows and doors. They’re also designed to prevent wind and flying debris from breaking the glass.
They come in various types, including accordion, roll-down, and Bahama shutters.
Each type offers a different level of protection, ease of use, and aesthetic appeal. The primary function of hurricane shutters is to shield your windows from the destructive force of a hurricane.
What Are Hurricane Impact Windows?
On the other hand, impact windows are a more permanent solution. They replace your regular windows and provide year-round protection.
Impact windows are made from laminated glass. This glass is designed to withstand the impact of flying debris without shattering. Even if the outer layer of glass breaks, the inner layer remains intact, keeping your home safe.
They also offer additional benefits like noise reduction and UV protectio–a perk that really pays off here in the Sunshine State!
The Cost Factor: Shutters vs Windows
When it comes to storm protection, cost is a major factor. Many homeowners are concerned about the price tag of both.
It’s true that both hurricane shutters and impact windows represent a significant investment. But the cost can vary greatly depending on the type, size, and quality of the product.
Here’s a closer look at the average costs of hurricane shutters and impact windows:
- Hurricane Shutters: The cost can range from $7 to $55 per square foot, depending on the type and material.
- Impact Windows: The cost typically ranges from $40 to $55 per square foot, including installation.
The most accurate way to find out about the cost of hurricane impact windows is contacting Storm Pro Window & Door for a free estimate. While we don’t offer shutters, our windows are so protective that shutters aren’t required!
Shutters vs Windows: Comparing Durability and Maintenance
When investing in storm protection, durability and maintenance are key considerations.
Both hurricane shutters and impact windows are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
But their lifespan and maintenance requirements can differ significantly. Here are the basics to consider:
Lifespan and Durability
Hurricane shutters, depending on the type and material, can last between 10 to 20 years. The problem with durability and lifespan is that they can wear out the track after years of use. When you choose hurricane impact windows, there is no track to worry about!
Impact windows, on the other hand, have a longer lifespan. With proper care, they can last up to 30-40+ years, making them a more long-term investment. The key is to install high-quality hurricane impact windows for the best results. You’ll get the most out of your investment along with peace of mind for decades to come.
Maintenance Requirements
Hurricane shutters require regular maintenance to ensure their functionality.
This includes cleaning, lubricating moving parts, and checking for corrosion or damage.
Meanwhile, many homeowners choose to store shutters in the garage. The downside to this is that they tend to collect dust, requiring occasional cleaning even when they are not in use.
But the good news is that ompact windows require less maintenance. Regular cleaning and occasional seal checks are usually sufficient to keep them in good condition!
Aesthetic and Functional Considerations
When choosing between hurricane shutters and impact windows, aesthetics and functionality are other important considerations for homeowners. The truth is that both options can enhance the look of your home and increase its value.
However, they offer different benefits and drawbacks in terms of ease of use and visual appeal.
Impact on Home Value and Aesthetics
Hurricane shutters, especially the more decorative types like Bahama and colonial shutters, can add a unique charm to your home. The drawback is that they may not suit all architectural styles.
Impact windows, on the other hand, blend seamlessly into any home design. It’s easy to find a window style that suits your home, especially since the windows are custom made.
They offer a clean, modern look and can significantly boost your home’s curb appeal.
Ease of Use During Storms
In terms of functionality during storms, there’s no question that hurricane impact windows are the best option for ease of use. That’s because hurricane shutters require manual setup. This can be time-consuming, especially for larger homes.
Once installed, impact windows require no additional steps to provide protection.
They offer a “set and forget” solution, which can be a significant advantage during a sudden storm.
Safety, Energy Efficiency, and Other Benefits
Beyond protection, hurricane shutters and impact windows offer a range of other benefits. These include enhanced safety, energy efficiency, and more.
Protection and Energy Savings
In terms of energy efficiency, impact windows have the edge, indeed! Installing these windows will allow you to experience tremendous energy savings, even during the hottest days in Florida.
The most energy efficient hurricane impact windows are designed with the following:
- Hurricane impact windows feature multi-layered glass and heavy-duty frames that provide better insulation than standard windows.
- Air tight seals minimize air leakage, maintaining indoor temperatures and reducing heating and cooling costs.
- These windows often include a layer that blocks harmful UV rays, which helps prevent heat gain inside the home during sunny days.
- Due to their strong materials, impact windows withstand harsh conditions, ensuring long-term performance with minimal energy loss.
- The same properties that improve energy efficiency also help in reducing noise, leading to less reliance on interior climate control to maintain comfort.
Get Hurricane Impact Windows Now–No Shutters Required!
In the end, both hurricane shutters and impact windows offer valuable protection. But hurricane impact windows offer year-round protection and energy savings without the need for shutters. They are the best windows for Florida homes! Call us to get a free and friendly quote for peace of mind and hurricane storm protection.