Our window replacement store is located just outside of Raleigh, in central North Carolina. We are frequently asked “Should I get impact-resistant windows for my home in the Triangle?”
In this post, we’ll explain what impact-resistant windows (aka Hurricane Windows) are, and why we don’t typically recommend them for homes in the Raleigh area.
What are Impact-Resistant Windows?
An impact-resistant window is a type of window designed to withstand strong winds, hail, and debris impact. They are particularly important for homes in areas prone to hurricanes, tornadoes, or other severe weather events.
Alternative Names for Impact-Resistant Windows
These windows have a few other common names you might encounter:
- Hurricane windows
- Coastal windows
- Impact windows
- Laminated glass windows
- High-impact windows
Whatever you call them, here’s what makes them impact-resistant:
- Laminated glass: Impact-resistant windows use laminated glass, which is two or more panes of glass bonded together with a strong plastic interlayer. This interlayer holds the glass together even if it breaks, preventing shattering and creating a barrier against wind and debris.
- Thicker glass: Compared to a standard window, these windows often use thicker glass panes for increased strength.
This Makes Impact-Resistant Windows Heavier than Typical Windows:
Due to the use of laminated glass and thicker panes, impact-resistant windows are considerably heavier than standard windows. This extra weight can impact several aspects:
- Installation: Impact-resistant windows may require additional support during installation due to the weight. Reinforced window frames are often used to handle the additional stress.
- Operation: Because of the weight, these windows may require stronger operating mechanisms to open and close easily. This is especially true for larger windows.
- Structural considerations: In extreme cases, especially for large windows or multi-story applications, the increased weight of impact-resistant windows may require structural reinforcement in the walls to support them. In homes with oversized windows, we generally recommend working with a structural engineer, to ensure that the home’s foundation can support the additional load; These windows are THAT heavy!
Increased Cost
With all of these additional factors making a window impact-resistant, it may not surprise you to learn that these windows are typically much costlier than their non-impact resistant counterpart.
It’s not uncommon for hurricane windows to cost twice as much as standard residential windows.
Engineered for Hurricanes
Standard windows are designed to endure even above average high wind forces.
Impact-resistant windows, on the other hand, are built for the brutality of hurricanes. The interlayer we described above prevents windows from shattering, even if struck with heavy flying objects.
As Andersen Windows explains in this video, the purpose of this is not just to prevent injury from broken glass. The true purpose is to prevent wind energy from building up inside your home, as this can cause devastating damage. This video also shows how Andersen tests its coastal glass with impressive force testing.
Are Impact-Resistant Windows More Secure Than Regular Windows?
One common myth about hurricane windows is that they offer more security from home break-ins than standard windows do.
It’s important to keep in mind two facts when considering whether this is true.
1. Most Home Break-in’s are Not of the ‘Smash-and-Grab’ Variety
In fact, according to home security company ADT, over 50% of home intruders simply enter homes through an unlocked front or back door. When it comes to windows, again, intruders are much more likely to open an unlocked window than they are to break a window and risk the noise alerting someone to their presence.
Given these two facts, we generally recommend that homeowners not consider hurricane windows if their only motivation is home security. The additional cost and engineering considerations generally outweigh the almost non-existent security benefit that hurricane windows provide.
2. That Being Said, “Hurricane-Proof” ≠ “People Proof”
The features that make a door hurricane-resistant are not the same as features that would make a window impervious to burglars. Even impact-resistant windows can be broken into.
While many people believe that impact-resistant windows offer more home security, this is unfortunately usually something they have been told by a sales associate trying to take advantage of their fear and upsell them on a window they don’t need.
For most homeowners, they don’t provide substantial enough safety benefits to justify the increased cost. That’s why we don’t recommend hurricane windows unless a homeowner lives in an area where they are justified (or required) because of the weather.
So, Should You Get Impact-Resistant Windows?
Certainly, if you live in a location where local building codes require impact-resistant windows, then you must have them.
But, here in central North Carolina, impact-resistant windows are probably not necessary.
Especially when you consider the additional cost and installation/construction challenges that come with them, you would likely be better off with standard windows.
The tempered glass in them is sufficient for most weather events. And simply locking whatever windows you choose (along with your doors) is probably sufficient to avoid home break-in’s.
Summary
When it’s time to choose new windows, you want to talk with professionals who can help you understand the options available. That way, you can be sure that you’re making the right choice for your home, your family, and your budget.
Use the calendar below to schedule a complimentary window consultation call today! The windows you’ll love are just a phone call away.
