How To Find And Install The Best Hurricane Windows
Hurricane windows were first developed in response to the
disaster of Hurricane Andrew in South Florida in August of 1992.
They are effective for protecting your home from high winds and
flying debris. They can be installed during construction or
added later as a home improvement project. The cost of these
windows is comparable with other high quality windows. Benefits
of Hurricane Windows Obviously, the biggest benefit is
protecting your home form the wind and water during a powerful
storm. Most damage done to homes during hurricanes occurs as a
result of broken windows. Flying debris breaks the window and
high pressure air enters the home. This high pressure air can
either blow out the window on the opposite side of the home, or
blow the roof right off your house.
Shutters are often used to protect windows. Other people board
up the windows with plywood year after year. These are both
expensive and labor intensive. Windows designed for hurricanes
are always in place, ready to protect your home. These storms
change course quickly and it will benefit you to be ready all
the time. Some people can't take shutters on or off the house,
due to physical limitations. These windows eliminate the need
for this extra work.
There are other benefits to these windows. They add a degree of
security to your home. Because they are constructed to withstand
enormous pressure, they are difficult to break into. The
construction of the window and the method of attachment to the
home make it hard for someone to enter your home. Many insurance
companies offer a discount for this extra measure of security.
Contact your agent to determine if a discount is available.
The film in the inner layer helps protect your home from
ultraviolet rays. The UV rays of the sun can fade your carpets,
curtains or furniture. In addition, the material helps reduce
sound entering the home as well as sunlight. Construction of
Hurricane Windows The windows are constructed of two layers of
laminated glass. The glass has a strong, plastic film between
the layers. In the event the window shatters, the film layer
stays in place, protecting your home from wind damage and your
carpet from the driving rain. The inner layer of the window
varies according to the size and style of the window.
These products must go through rigorous testing to ensure their
effectiveness. Impact test are conducted to simulate both small
and large impacts that may occur during a storm. These tests
simulate the flying debris that is typical in hurricanes.
These windows can generally withstand wind speeds of up to 130
miles per hour. They can withstand debris flying at these speeds
as well. In addition to windows, the glass is available for sky
lights and patio doors to protect the whole house. Installation
Procedures Proper installation is essential for these windows.
The best window in the world will not protect your home, if it
isn't installed correctly. The method of installation depends on
the window and the materials used in the exterior of the home.
In most cases, professional installation is required. Your
warranty may be voided if an inexperienced person installs them
incorrectly.