When it comes to safeguarding your home from extreme weather conditions, nothing beats the importance of having the right windows installed. If you’re living in an area prone to hurricanes or high winds, you’ll need windows that can withstand the fury of Mother Nature. But how do you know which ones are the best?
Enter impact windows – the ultimate shield against harsh weather. Designed to resist high winds and flying debris, these windows are a game-changer for homeowners. But with a variety of brands and models on the market, choosing the best can be a daunting task.
In this article, we’ll help you navigate through the sea of options, highlighting the key features to look for and the top brands that stand out in the realm of impact windows. Buckle up, as we explore the world of the best impact windows.
Understanding Impact Windows
Here’s a deep dive into what makes impact windows unique and fit for purpose. Understand the intricacies of their design and the stark differences posed by the different types of materials employed in their manufacture.
The Science Behind Impact Resistance
Impacts are no match for these hardy window warriors, and it’s all due to the unique science behind their make-up. Impact-resistance of these windows lies in their design composition. A typical impact window incorporates double glazing, comprising two glass panes separated by a void. Sandwiched between these panes is a resilient layer of transparent polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), acting as a sturdy barricade against incoming projectiles.
Beyond mere resistance, an impact window’s peripheral frame also plays a critical role. Aluminum or vinyl frames, reinforced with steel, impart additional strength, sealing the window ensemble to withstand high velocity impacts. The reinforcing interlayer, coupled with a robust frame, absorbs the brunt of the impact, bending not breaking, and as a result, prevents any propelled debris from invading your living space.
An interesting application of physics occurs when a fast moving object strikes these windows. The force upon impact evenly distributes across the window surface, effectively transforming kinetic energy into elastic potential energy, making sure the windows flex but don’t crack under pressure.
Comparing Impact Window Materials
Design’s only half the story. The materials that constitute an impact window significantly influence its durability and overall capabilities. The two common makes are Aluminum and Vinyl, each having its own merits and drawbacks.
Aluminum Impact Windows, renown for their strength and low-maintenance qualities, are available predominantly in coastal regions, where resilience to robust salt air is imperative. Despite their energy inefficiency when compared to other materials, they boast superior performance amid high winds.
Vinyl Impact Windows, on the other hand, flaunt remarkable energy efficiency, which helps you cut down your heating and cooling costs. Vinyl frames offer superior insulation than their aluminum counterparts and generally entail lesser initial costs. However, they’re not as structurally strong as aluminum and tend to discolor or warp over time, especially in harsh weather conditions.
When picking between Aluminum and Vinyl, balance the pros and cons to align with your specific needs and environment.
Evaluating Impact Window Brands
Dive into your decision to get impact windows by scrutinizing different brands. It’s crucial to base your choice not only on the window’s features, as discussed in the previous section, but also on the reputation of the brand.
Top-Rated Brands for Impact Resistance
Be an informed customer by examining top-rated brands known for their impact resistance. Among these is Andersen Windows – producing windows with optimal resilience against extreme weather. Another renowned brand, Jeld-Wen, offers superior impact resistance, often boasting of products that exceed international standards. Pella, too, carries a reputation for producing high-performance impact windows, often cited for its commitment towards quality and strength.
Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews
Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about a brand. Look into companies’ track record, as it often reflects their commitment to quality. Brands with heaps of positive reviews typically maintain higher standards. For instance, Simonton Windows, with extensive positive customer feedback, illustrates its commitment to customer satisfaction.
Trust the verdict of other customers as it often mirrors their experience with the product. For example, Marvin Windows collects a string of positive reviews, demonstrating the brand’s consistency in delivering superior quality. Similarly, MI Windows and Doors enjoys excellent customer feedback, further reinforcing its trustworthiness as a reliable brand.
In your search for impact windows, evaluate the brands thoroughly. Examine resilience against extreme weather, the reputation of the brand, and customer reviews. This ensures you invest in high-performing impact windows worthy of your home.
Features of the Best Impact Windows
When evaluating impact windows, numerous factors determine their efficacy and suitableness for your home. Ensuring optimal selections requires considerations beyond just brand reputations and impact resistance.
Energy Efficiency Considerations
Stellar energy efficiency ranks high among features of the best impact windows. Optimal impact windows effectively limit thermal transfer, reducing your home’s energy consumption. Examples of specific features indicating energy efficiency include dual pane glass and low-E coatings.
Dual pane glass creates an insulating layer of air or gas between the window panes, minimizing heat transfer. Instances of models offering this energy efficacious feature include those by Andersen Windows and Jeld-Wen. Silver Star or low-E coatings, another energy-saving window feature, reflects heat back to its source, helping maintain indoor temperature. Brands like Pella and Simonton Windows incorporate this technology in their products.
Aesthetic and Design Options
The best impact windows amalgamate safety with style. Yes, these windows protect against harsh weather, but they’re not restricted to dull or unappealing designs. Aesthetic preferences vary among homeowners, and top impact window brands cater to this diversity.
Multiple design options allow selection of window styles that complement the home’s architectural aesthetics – be it traditional, modern, or a blend of both. Examples of varied design possibilities include single or double-hung windows, awning windows, picture windows, and more, offered by brands like Marvin Windows and MI Windows and Doors.
Installation and Maintenance of Impact Windows
Installing and maintaining impact windows not only protects your home but also maintains the beauty of your abode. The following concepts explore the ins and outs of the process.
Professional vs. DIY Installation
The craft of installing an impact window involves precise measurements and skilled assembly. Hiring professionals provides assurance of accurate installation, minimizing potential window damage or ineffective sealing. For instance, companies like Andersen Windows and Pella boast expert installers as a part of their services.
On another note, you might be sharpening the DIY skills for installing impact windows. Relevant resources from Jeld-Wen and Simonton Windows provide comprehensive installation guides. But bear in mind, DIY installations carry a risk of measurement errors or mishandling. Hence, evaluate the complexity of windows fitting or hire a professional if in doubt.
Long-Term Maintenance and Upkeep
Proper maintenance is vital to extend the lifespan of impact windows. Adhering to maintenance guidelines boosts window resilience against severe weather conditions. Maintenance routines often involve routine inspections for seal damages, glass cleaning, frame and track maintenance. Brands like Marvin Windows and MI Windows and Doors provide detailed maintenance guides for their products.
Mainly, upkeep routines can vary across different window types. Like aluminum windows from Andersen Windows might require more frequent cleaning than vinyl windows from Simonton. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the best results. Consequently, regular maintenance ensures longevity and optimal functionality of your windows.
Cost Analysis of Impact Windows
Delving into the financial considerations associated with impact windows, a balanced perspective emerges. This takes into account not only your immediate budget but also potential long-term savings and bonuses, such as reduced insurance premiums and energy cost reductions.
Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Savings
A significant impact window investment encompasses initial purchasing costs, installation, and maintenance. Be aware that the initial outlay can be substantial, particularly for high-quality brands such as Andersen Windows, Jeld-Wen, or Pella. When factoring in the installation, typically handled by professionals for optimal results, the bill escalates further. Accumulated maintenance costs over the lifespan of the windows contribute to your ongoing expenses, with differing routines based on window types such as Aluminum and Vinyl.
An evaluation of long-term savings offers a brighter image. Firstly, you’ve got the leap in energy efficiency. An impact window, such as those offered by Simonton, Marvin, or MI Windows and Doors, creates an effective thermal seal. This slash in air leakage curbs your demand for heating and cooling, trimming your energy bills on a monthly basis. In numerical terms, you stand to save between 7% and 15% yearly on energy costs.
Further, the sturdy nature of impact windows pays off over time by retarding regular window replacement occasions, thus saving on replacement expenses in the long run. The expanded lifespan of these windows, particularly when properly maintained, makes them a worthwhile endeavor despite the initial substantial outlay.
Insurance Premium Discounts and Incentives
Insurance companies frequently acknowledge the sturdiness of impact windows. Their resilience against extreme weather conditions – high winds, heavy rain, and hurricanes – significantly decreases the odds of window-related damage claims. Insurers often offer premium discounts for homes fitted with impact windows. This is a source of recurring savings that, over time, offers a substantial offset to the initial investment required for these highly durable windows. Some of the popular insurance providers known to offer such rebates include Allstate, State Farm, and Liberty Mutual. However, the specific discount amount varies from provider to provider and state to state.
Remember, while these incentives may seem attractive, it’s paramount to fully understand your insurance provider’s terms and conditions related to impact window installations. Communicate with your insurer about possible discounts before making the investment.
Conclusion
You’ve explored the world of impact windows, understanding their significance in safeguarding your home against harsh weather. You’ve weighed up the pros and cons of Aluminum and Vinyl, and become familiar with top brands like Andersen Windows, Jeld-Wen, and Pella. You’ve grasped the importance of professional installation for precise fitting and sealing. You’ve also delved into the financial side, appreciating the initial outlay, long-term savings with energy efficiency, decreased upkeep expenses, and potential insurance discounts from companies like Allstate and State Farm. Now, equipped with this knowledge, you’re ready to make an informed choice. Remember, the best impact windows are not just about immediate cost, but also about the value they bring to your home in the long run.
Why are impact windows important?
Impact windows offer crucial protection for homes against extreme weather conditions. They are designed to withstand high winds and flying debris, and consequently prevent damages and potential losses during severe weather episodes.
Why should we choose aluminum or vinyl impact windows?
Aluminum and vinyl are two durable and reliable materials for impact windows. Aluminum offers strength and sturdiness, while vinyl provides excellent insulation, thus increasing energy efficiency. Brands like Andersen Windows, Jeld-Wen, and Pella carry high-quality versions of these types.
What are the benefits of professional installation?
Professional installations ensure accuracy and proper sealing, which is crucial for the effectiveness of impact windows. Experts make certain windows are perfectly fitted and sealed, enhancing your home’s overall protection.
How do impact windows influence financial aspects?
While the initial investment in impact windows may be high, they offer considerable long-term savings. These come in the form of energy efficiency, reduced maintenance costs, and likely discounts on insurance premiums with providers like Allstate and State Farm.
How does energy efficiency reduce costs?
Energy-efficient windows reduce thermal transfer, meaning less heat escapes during winter and less enters during summer. This results in lower heating and cooling costs, translating into significant savings over time.