Floridians are notorious for shrugging off hurricanes, no matter how severe the storm is. We idly take our time to make the preparations that are needed to ensure we are kept safe during the storm’s duration. It isn’t until the storm actually arrives that we fully understand the danger of the storm. Usually, a week or two before the storm arrives, Floridians will flood the local home appliance store and create shutters and plywood covers for their windows. And while these serve as good defenses for your home, they’re not necessarily the best choices. Don’t wait until the last minute to protect your home with cheap supplies. Upgrade your house now with impact windows. Impact windows are the best form of hurricane defense. Continue reading below to see why impact windows are unparalleled to any other home defense.
What Makes Impact Windows Resistant?
Impact windows are multilayered, which contributes immensely to their defense against storms. Impact windows are actually two sheets of glass with a layer of vinyl inserted in between them. Even if the window gets struck, the glass will crack but the vinyl layer will help keep the window intact while still ensuring protection from not just the storm, but also from harsh winds and rain. They function similarly to a car windshield: they are made to take a beating without shattering.
Impact window are often regarded as the best hurricane defense tool because their benefits outweigh the cons as opposed to other methods of protection. Below are some common methods many Floridians apply to their property to ensure protection but also have a lot of drawbacks.
Plywood
Plywood tends to get the job done in property protection and is typically a cheap option. However, they carry a few drawbacks that make them not so worthwhile. Plywoods need to be stored throughout the year, lessening the space in your property. Some homeowners typically opt to keep them outside but that usually ends up being a bad idea considering outdoor elements can damage your plywood. Also, when placed on windows, they can block light from coming in and extreme impacts can cause them to break or bend in towards the windows. This won’t only damage your home but will also put residents inside at risk. On top of that, you now have a broken plywood cover and are left with one less window/opening protected against the hurricane.
Duct Taping Windows
Probably the most ineffective method to exist in hurricane protection. It’s a common myth that many Floridians, unfortunately, practice in order to protect their property. The myth is that taping your windows will prevent them from shattering but that isn’t true whatsoever. A taped window can still shatter but instead of tiny pieces the tape can cause your window to shatter into larger, dangerous shards.
Hurricane Shutters
Probably the next best thing to impact windows. Aluminum or accordion shutters will keep flying debris from entering your home and damaging your window. Plus, they can take a lot of hits without losing their strength. Shutters, however, still have a few drawbacks. Much like plywood, they keep light out and take time to set up and also take up a lot of space in storage. Accordion shutters remove the inconvenience of setting up, but then you have an unsightly box above your windows all throughout the year. On top of that, both options can be expensive depending on how big your windows are.
Protect Your Home With Impact Windows Installed By The Window Guys of Florida
Now that you’re aware of why impact windows are the best solution, don’t settle for anything less. Have your impact windows installed by the Window Guys of Florida. The Window Guys have serviced the Florida region for over a decade and have earned a reputation for their impeccable service. When you hire the Window Guys, you’ll have the option to choose from various manufacturers to protect your home. For any inquiries, you may call us at (561) 232-6536 or visit our contact page.