If you live in the area that prone to the storm, it is wise to consider putting impact windows into your property. Impact-resistant windows or storm-proof windows are composed of impact resistant glass, containing a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) between two slabs of glass. The most effective type of impact-resistant window is the inner-membrane window. The impact resistant windows must comply with maximum U-factor of 0.75 or less and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) between 0.30 or less based on the Energy Conservation Code requirements. Impact resistant windows have advanced to the point where they are thoroughly tested to withstand Category 5 wind conditions following The American Society for Testing & Materials (ASTM) guidelines.
Hurricane-resistant windows can increase overall construction cost. However, at the same time, they will offer great protection during storm season and can be very useful to protect property. By applying this window it may be the reason on how you can get a reduced price in the insurance cost. A good hurricane window cost will be between $40 and $55 a square-foot, and this will include the frame and the hurricane-proof glass. As an average, a hurricane impact door size 60" x 80" can cost about $1,700-1900 while a sliding window 72" X 80" is around $1750-1950. A single hung window cost is between $500 and $600, material only.
The main options to consider as hurricane resistant windows are wood, aluminum, and vinyl. Wood can offer great energy performance but their cost of maintenance is the highest, not to say that they will be susceptible to warping with time. Aluminum could probably be the strongest of the three, providing excellent results when hurricane conditions are present. Vinyl hurricane proof windows are a great cost-effective solution, offering great insulation benefits.
The four major impact resistant glass types are identified by the laminate procedure or the window interlayer procedure. The PVB, Polyvinyl Butyral, is the most widely used product in the impact glass market since it does great when impacted and absorbs the impact. The PVB with a layer of PET is a very tough product but its manufacturing process is quite challenging making it a less economically viable product. The Sentry Glass Plus is more expensive than PVB, normally used in some federal construction or specialized areas requiring bullet and bomb resistance glass. Finally, the resin laminates where a liquid is poured between two glass layers and allowed to cure.
Some of the greater benefits of impact resistant windows are it comes in different styles and sizes. These windows provide permanent protection against tornado, storms, and hurricane at any time. Its high strength prevents the glass from breaking up into large sharp pieces. When glass cracks will create a ‘spider-like’ cracking pattern. These windows also have a much higher sound insulation rating due to its damping effect. It also blocks 99% of transmitted UV light. One of the most exciting part is that some insurance companies could offer up to 45% premium discounts
Hurricane Resistant Windows has also disadvantages. Impact resistant windows could also be costly and sometimes too pricey. Adding an average of $55 per square foot, impact resistant windows could add a couple of thousands more to your construction project, but will eventually reduce your insurance costs.
