When you start to prepare your home for hurricane season, you might find yourself wondering, “Are impact windows better than hurricane shutters?” The solution that’s best for your home depends on your needs. However, many homeowners find that impact windows offer more convenience, year-round benefits, and protection for your home than hurricane shutters.
Hurricane shutters still provide an effective solution for keeping debris away from windows during storms. However, if you live in Florida, impact windows protect your home day and night without you having to install them before hurricane season. Read on as we compare these two options to help you decide which solution is best for your home and budget.
Are Impact Windows More Impactful Than Hurricane Shutters?
Impact windows offer several advantages over hurricane shutters. For starters, they’re always ready to protect your home. Hurricane shutters require you to prepare for incoming storms. Impact windows, on the other hand, will always be there.
Hurricane impact windows are designed using laminated glass and reinforced frames. They can handle strong winds and debris during hurricanes without breaking. And if they do crack, the laminate on the inside of the window typically keeps it intact. Fewer broken windows means less debris will come into your home during a storm. That’s why many homeowners choose impact windows. They don’t have to worry about installing storm protection before hurricane season because their windows provide reliable protection year-round.
Do Hurricane Shutters Still Work?
Yes! Hurricane shutters work very well and are a great option to keep your windows protected during a storm.
However, they require you to take action. You’ll need to keep up with weather forecasts and install your shutters before the storm hits. Accordion and roll-down shutters can give you some extra time, but not always. If a hurricane suddenly shifts course, you may not have time to cover all of your windows. Impact windows don’t have this issue. They’re ready to protect your home 365 days a year.
Which Option Is More Convenient?
Impact windows are significantly more convenient. Once they’re installed by a professional, they’ll protect your home around-the-clock, and you don’t have to lift a finger.
Hurricane shutters are not quite as convenient. You have to plan ahead for storms and put them on yourself. Some shutter systems require you to lift/install heavy panels over every window and door. Others involve countless fasteners or require you to manually close the system around each window. Hurricane shutters can be time-consuming and a workout.
Which Is Better For Year-Round Benefits?
We think impact windows win this round. Hurricane shutters have one job-keeping your windows safe during hurricane season. Impact windows keep your windows safe during hurricane season and provide several benefits throughout the rest of the year.
Impact windows can:
- Increase energy efficiency
- Decrease outside noise
- Improve home security
- Block harmful UV rays
- Increase curb appeal and home value
Just like you enjoy the benefits of your storm protection during hurricane season, you can enjoy these benefits year-round with impact windows.
Are Hurricane Shutters Cheaper?
In most cases, yes. Hurricane shutters will typically cost less than installing impact windows throughout your home.
However, that doesn’t always mean they’re the better value. Impact windows can reduce maintenance costs, eliminate storm prep season, and improve your energy efficiency. Not to mention that some insurance companies will offer discounts for installing impact windows. Over time, these benefits can help reduce some of the cost difference between shutters and impact windows.
Which Look Better On My Home?
This is subjective, but we think most homeowners would agree that impact windows look better.
Hurricane shutters, especially the removable kind, can detract from your home’s curb appeal. Whether they’re stored in the garage or mounted to the exterior of your home, they’ll impact how your home looks. Three installation styles have a less noticeable look, but they’re still on your home’s exterior. Impact windows don’t alter the look of your home and provide storm protection like traditional windows.
Can I Install Impact Windows and Hurricane Shutters?
Yes, you can have both for added peace of mind.
Some homeowners like to have the extra layer of protection just in case. This might make sense for homes along the water or in high-wind areas. However, most of the time, installing impact windows is enough to provide great protection for your home. In fact, properly installed impact windows meet Florida’s rigorous building codes so your home may not need shutters at all.
Which Hurricane Protection Is Right For Your Home?
There’s no right or wrong answer. Your home’s location, budget, and goals play a role in which solution is best for you. If you want something convenient that protects your home year-round and increases your home value, impact windows might be the right choice. If you’re on a budget, hurricane shutters can offer great protection while you save up for windows.
A qualified window specialist can look at your home and help you decide which solution is best. They can point out requirements set by your local building code and recommend what they think will work best for your home.
Why Should You Choose An Experienced Window Company?
Do you want your hurricane protection to work correctly? Of course, you do! That’s why installation is crucial.
While it’s possible to install hurricane shutters yourself, we don’t recommend it for impact windows. Impact windows need to be professionally installed by someone who knows what they’re doing. When you work with **Absolute Window LLC**, you can expect knowledgeable installers who will take care of your home just as you would.
Contact Absolute Window LLC
Are impact windows better than hurricane shutters? While we think the answer is pretty clear, let Absolute Window LLC help you explore your options. Our team installs high-quality hurricane impact windows all over Southwest Florida. Not only will we provide your home with stellar storm protection, but we can also increase your energy efficiency for years to come.
Contact Absolute Window LLC today for your free consultation and learn how impact windows can help protect your home before hurricane season arrives.
