Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors vs. Shutter Systems: Why Upgrading to Impact Options is the Smart Choice
If you live in a hurricane-prone area, you know the importance of protecting your home from the devastating effects of a storm. When it comes to hurricane protection, two popular options come to mind: hurricane impact windows and doors or hurricane shutter systems. Both offer significant protection from high winds, flying debris, and water intrusion, but each has distinct advantages and disadvantages. In this post, we’ll compare these two options and explain why upgrading to hurricane impact windows and doors might be the best choice for your home.
What Are Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors?
Hurricane impact windows and doors are designed to withstand the force of powerful storms, including hurricanes. They are made with laminated glass, which consists of multiple layers of glass and a durable, shatter-resistant film in between. This construction prevents the windows or doors from shattering under pressure and keeps the glass intact even if it is hit by flying debris. Additionally, the frames are reinforced to handle the forces of extreme winds.
These impact-resistant windows and doors not only protect your home from hurricanes, but they also provide year-round benefits such as enhanced security, energy efficiency, noise reduction, increased home value and much more.
What Are Hurricane Shutter Systems?
Hurricane shutter systems are external barriers designed to cover and protect windows and doors during a storm. There are several types of hurricane shutters, including:
- Roll-down shutters: These shutters roll down over the window or door, providing a protective shield when deployed.
- Accordion shutters: These shutters fold open and closed like an accordion, covering the windows and doors.
- Colonial shutters: These shutters are fixed to the side of the window and are manually closed to protect the window during a storm.
- Bahama shutters: These are hinged at the top and can be pulled down to cover windows during a hurricane.
While shutters can provide a strong defense against high winds and flying debris, they must be manually installed or deployed before a storm, which means homeowners must plan ahead.
Comparing Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors vs. Shutter Systems
Here are some key factors to consider when choosing between hurricane impact windows and doors versus shutter systems:
1. Ease of Use and Convenience
- Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors: Once installed, impact windows and doors are always ready for any storm. You don’t have to worry about rushing to install or deploy shutters before a hurricane strikes. The protection is built into the structure of your home, meaning there’s no last-minute scrambling when a storm approaches.
- Hurricane Shutter Systems: Shutters require manual installation or deployment, and this can be time-consuming and stressful, especially if you’re trying to secure your home as a storm is approaching. In some cases, you may need a ladder or help to install shutters on upper-story windows. The time and effort required to deploy shutters may not be ideal when time is of the essence.
2. Aesthetic Appeal
- Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors: Impact-rated windows and doors offer a sleek, modern look and do not obstruct your view or curb appeal. These products come in a variety of styles and finishes to suit the design of your home. They maintain the aesthetic integrity of your property while providing robust protection against hurricanes.
- Hurricane Shutter Systems: While shutters can be functional, they often detract from the visual appeal of your home. Depending on the style of shutter you choose, they may look bulky, outdated, or even out of place on a more modern home. Some shutter systems can be quite visible when stored, further impacting the overall appearance of your property.
3. Protection and Durability
- Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors: Impact windows and doors are specifically engineered to withstand hurricane-force winds, flying debris, and other storm-related hazards. They are tested to meet stringent standards, such as those set by the **Miami-Dade County Code** and the **Florida Building Code**, to ensure they provide the highest level of protection. With these windows and doors, your home is secure year-round, even if you forget to deploy shutters in time.
- Hurricane Shutter Systems: While shutters are effective at protecting windows, they can still be vulnerable if not properly installed or maintained. If shutters are not deployed correctly or if they are damaged during a storm, they may not offer the same level of protection as impact-rated windows and doors. Additionally, shutters can sometimes fail to fully cover windows if they are the wrong size or if the installation is compromised.
4. Long-Term Investment and Maintenance
- Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors: Impact windows and doors are a long-term investment. Once installed, they require little to no maintenance beyond regular cleaning. They don’t need to be put up and taken down every storm season, and they add value to your home by enhancing security, improving energy efficiency, and boosting curb appeal. Furthermore, many homeowners report a reduction in outside noise and improved insulation, which can lower energy costs over time.
- Hurricane Shutter Systems: While shutters are typically slightly less expensive upfront than impact windows, they come with a higher ongoing maintenance requirement. You need to check them regularly to ensure they’re in good working order, lubricate the mechanisms, and repair any damaged panels. If you have manual shutters, you must also be prepared to deploy them before each storm. This time-consuming process can become a hassle, especially during the hurricane season when storms are frequent.
5. Insurance and Safety Benefits
- Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors: Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes with hurricane impact windows and doors because they significantly reduce the risk of damage during a storm. In addition, because they stay in place and can’t be easily removed or damaged, they provide a higher level of security against both storms and break-ins.
- Hurricane Shutter Systems: Shutter systems can also lower your insurance premiums, but the level of protection depends on the quality of the shutters and how quickly and properly they are deployed. If you forget to put them up or if they are poorly maintained, you might not receive the same insurance benefits.
6. Cost Considerations
- Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors: The initial cost of hurricane impact windows and doors is generally higher than shutter systems, but the return on investment can be worth it. Not only do these products increase the value of your home, but they provide year-round protection with minimal upkeep. Plus, they offer energy efficiency and noise reduction, which can save you money on utilities over time.
- Hurricane Shutter Systems: Shutters are typically more affordable upfront than impact windows, especially if you opt for manual shutters or simpler designs. However, the ongoing costs of installation, maintenance, and the time spent securing them for each storm can add up. Over time, the need for repairs and potential replacements may also make shutters a less cost-effective long-term solution.
Why Upgrading to Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors Makes Sense
While hurricane shutters have served as a reliable option for many years, upgrading to hurricane impact windows and doors offers a range of advantages that make it a smarter, more convenient, and more durable solution.
Here’s why:
- Convenience: No more last-minute storm prep. Your home is always ready for a hurricane.
- Aesthetics: No bulky shutters to detract from your home’s curb appeal.
- Year-Round Protection: Impact windows and doors are designed to protect your home in all conditions, offering additional benefits like energy efficiency and security.
- Long-Term Value: The higher upfront cost is offset by lower maintenance, increased home value, and possible insurance savings.
- Better Storm Protection: Impact windows and doors are engineered to withstand the full force of a hurricane, providing superior protection against wind, water, and debris.
In short, upgrading to hurricane impact windows and doors ensures your home is protected not just during a storm, but every day. If you're looking for a comprehensive, low-maintenance, and aesthetically pleasing solution to protect your home, hurricane impact windows and doors are a smart investment.