Which Is Right For You?
Hurricanes are a common phenomenon in the US. If you are living along the coastline, the situation is even worse. You often have to face 100+ mph wind during the monsoon season. Therefore, it is a necessity to keep you safe from the furious winds by investing and improvising your home. Many people struck within the duo of impact glass windows Vs. Hurricane window shutters when looking to protect against hurricanes. Both have the same purpose, they’re not the same physically, and how function also differs.
Let us look into the differences and similarities first before getting to the verdict.
Hurricane Impact Glass Window
It is higher quality reinforced glass and replaces the existing glass shutters or the whole window panel. The cost of the makeover is higher than the other but comes with a significant benefit of savings in the form of a lesser home insurance premium, which might account for around 80% of the return on investment. Further, it serves the purpose of protecting against intruders breaking in as the impact-resistant glass can take a lot of beating before breaking. The only letdown for impact glass is the initial investment and the replacement cost.
Hurricane Shutters
Hurricane shutters have extra layers of shutters installed over the existing glass window to defy the effect of strong winds. They can withstand hurricanes up to 200 mph but hurricane window shutters are rated a little less depending on the type and material used in the shutters. It will save home insurance premiums but not as much resulting in a lesser ROI of 50%. However, for those wanting to invest less into protecting their home, hurricane shutters are the easier pick. They cost less than Hurricane Impact Glass and they also come with a lower repair and replacement cost.
Which is Right for You?
There is no straight answer, factors like location and the expected wind speeds need to be looked upon. For those looking to be future-proof and can bear the cost, the impact glass window is the best, which will even reflect on the resale value of the house. On the other hand, for those willing to settle for short-term protection for spending considerably less, hurricane window shutters or no brainers. A pro tip from the expert- if you can afford to install both, do it so that you are safe no matter what. Hurricane impact glass and hurricane window shutters which is the right fit for you.
Check out the Pros and Cons list that Eastern Architectural Systems has put together to learn more.
For more information about upgrading to hurricane impact glass contact Gulfside Windows & Doors today. We are here to answer all your questions and offer a free in-home consultation.