As a homeowner, protecting your property and family from natural disasters and harsh weather conditions is a top priority. When it comes to hurricane protection, two popular options are impact windows and shutters.
Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and it’s essential to weigh them to make an informed decision. In this article, we’ll compare impact windows and shutters to determine how well they can protect you.
Impact Windows
Impact windows are designed to withstand strong winds, flying debris, and heavy rain. They are made of two panes of glass with a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) in between.
This layer acts as a bonding agent, holding the glass together even if it shatters. Impact windows are also coated with a protective film that prevents UV rays from entering your home, reducing heat and glare.
Advantages of Impact Windows
Impact windows offer a permanent solution to hurricane protection as they are installed directly onto your home’s frame, making them a part of your property’s structure. This means that homeowners do not need to worry about taking them down or putting them up before and after a storm. Additionally, impact windows offer energy efficiency benefits as the protective film on them helps to prevent heat from entering your home, reducing energy bills.
Another benefit of impact windows is that they offer noise reduction benefits. They keep out external noise, creating a more peaceful and comfortable living environment for homeowners. Therefore, impact windows are an excellent investment for homeowners who prioritize permanent hurricane protection, energy efficiency, and noise reduction benefits.
Shutters
Shutters are a popular and traditional way of protecting your home during a hurricane. They come in various materials, including vinyl, aluminum, and wood. Shutters are installed on the exterior of your home and can be closed to protect your windows from strong winds and flying debris.
Advantages of Shutters
Shutters are a popular and cost-effective solution to hurricane protection as they are less expensive than impact windows and can be installed by homeowners themselves, saving money on installation costs. Shutters also offer a wide range of design options, including colors and styles, allowing homeowners to choose shutters that match their home’s aesthetic, adding to its beauty.
Additionally, shutters offer temporary protection, allowing homeowners to put them up and take them down as needed, making them a great option for homeowners who do not want to commit to a permanent solution.
However, shutters require regular maintenance, including cleaning and painting, and storing them when not in use can be a challenge if homeowners have limited storage space.
Which Is Better?
Both impact windows and shutters offer benefits and drawbacks, and the choice ultimately depends on your needs and budget. Impact windows are a more permanent solution that provides energy efficiency, noise reduction, and no need for storage. While they are more expensive, they can save homeowners money in the long run.
Shutters are a cost-effective solution that offers a wide range of design options. They provide temporary protection and can be installed by homeowners, saving you money on installation costs. However, they require regular maintenance, need to be stored when not in use, and can be difficult to install.
Conclusion
When it comes to hurricane protection, both impact windows and shutters can do the job. It’s essential to weigh their benefits and drawbacks to determine which is the best option for your home and budget. Remember, hurricane protection is critical, and investing in the right solution can save you money and provide peace of mind in the long run.
If you’re looking to invest in high-quality hurricane protection for your home in Cape Coral, consider aluminum impact windows and doors. Precision Aluminum & Remodeling offers units with superior durability and energy efficiency, as well as peace of mind. Get in touch with us today to learn more.
