How to Choose the Right Hurricane Window

 Source Hurricane windows are typically designed to shelter occupants from the harsh outdoor weather, while still allowing unfettered access into the outdoors. The basic concept behind hurricane windows is the inside of the hurricane window acts as a solid screen which allows in only required sunlight, while discouraging outside air and debris from entering the room. As an example, a sturdy storm door or solid partition may be installed to block out wind and rain, while the remaining space is left open. Many commercial hurricane window buildings use these as an effective way to keep heat out during the winter months. They are also commonly used for privacy and when noise is a problem. For this reason, it's important to choose the right materials, installation methods and products, which can all affect how well your hurricane windows work.

Hurricane impact windows can be damaged by wind, hail, or water damage. When a solid impact occurs, the glass can experience stress cracking, shattering, or breaking. These cracks can compromise the integrity of the window, which can affect your ability to resell the property in the future. In the worst case scenario, this can also lead to water damage within the structure itself. As with any other storm damage, you should consult with a licensed professional to determine if there is a solution or if the damage will require extensive repair work.

Storm damage or wind exposure will cause many types of impact windows. One type is known as the hurricane impact windows or simply impact windows. These are usually made of plywood or sheet metal, with some having a single vertical or horizontal crack. These are most commonly used for garage doors, but they also can be found on storefronts, walls or other structures that are considered to be exposed to harsh weather. They are constructed to be strong and resistant to pressure changes, such as those created by strong winds.

Many homeowners have hurricane impact windows installed to their garage doorways and forgo other types of window. If these impact windows do not meet the safety requirements set forth in your building codes, you could face fines and even criminal charges. Because of this possibility, you should consider installing the hurricane impact windows where they are needed to provide the greatest protection. Among the options available to you are:

- Laminated Glass. This is a common option for hurricane windows, but it is not the only option available to you. There are also several laminated glass products that are considered to be impact resistant windows. They are manufactured with a polyester liner, which provides additional strength, is not affected by UV rays, and maintains its clarity even after being exposed to intense wind, rain or other weather elements.

- Styrofoam. Styrofoam is often used for insulating buildings and homes. It can be an excellent choice for hurricane impact windows as well. Styrofoam is constructed of two pieces and is usually made out of either polystyrene or styrene beads. Although the beads have a Styrofoam look, they are actually full of tiny beads. These small beads are very strong and will provide very little resistance when they come in direct contact with the wind.

- Hurricane glass. Because hurricane impact windows can be installed in a garage, they can also be placed in a home's lower interior walls. If you are concerned about saving money, you should purchase estate collection impact glass because you can purchase the beads at a wholesale price, which means you pay less than you would for any other type of glass product. Estate collection hurricane glass does not need to be cut, sanded or drilled. You simply need to tear off a few inches from one corner and install the pieces. Unlike other types of hurricane glass, estate collection impact glasses are not required to be installed in accordance with building codes.

These are just a few of the options available for hurricane impact windows. For example, there are real wood, real vinyl and even real bamboo. Real wood and vinyl are great options, as they can be properly protected under the right conditions. However, bamboo has proven to be a superior option for people who prefer natural products and who want to have an elegant-looking product. No matter what your preference, you are sure to find the perfect cgi impact window for your home.