What Are Impact Windows?

Author Tillie Fabbri

Posted Nov 2, 2022

Reads 62

Library with lights

Windows are an important part of any home or office. They let in light, provide ventilation, and can be used to help control the temperature inside a building. Impact windows are a special type of window that is designed to resist damage from severe weather conditions, such as hurricanes.

Impact windows are made from a variety of materials, including impact-resistant glass, laminated glass, and polycarbonate. These materials are strong and durable, and can help to protect a building from wind, rain, and flying debris. Impact windows are typically installed in areas where there is a risk of severe weather, such as coastal regions.

There are a number of benefits to installing impact windows in a home or office. They can help to protect against damage from severe weather, and can also improve the energy efficiency of a building. Impact windows can also increase the value of a property.

If you live in an area where severe weather is a risk, or if you are looking to improve the energy efficiency of your home or office, impact windows may be a good option for you.

What are the benefits of impact windows?

There are many benefits to impact windows, especially in hurricane-prone areas. For one, they can help protect your home from high winds and flying debris. They also can help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, since they provide an extra layer of insulation. And, impact windows can also improve your home’s security, since they’re more difficult to break than regular windows.

How do impact windows protect against burglaries?

When most people think about impact windows, they think about hurricane protection. And while it’s true that these windows can withstand high winds and flying debris, that’s not their only purpose. Impact windows can also deter burglary attempts, thanks to their strength and durability.

Burglars typically enter homes through windows or doors, so by installing impact windows, you’re making it much more difficult for them to gain entry. These windows are made with impact-resistant glass that is designed to withstand force, meaning it would take a burglar much longer – and more noise – to break through.

In addition, impact windows are typically equipped with security features like reinforced frames and locks, making them even more resistant to break-ins. And because impact windows are designed to be energy-efficient, they can also help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, which can deter burglars who are looking for an easy target.

So if you’re looking for a way to deter burglars and protect your home, consider installing impact windows. Not only will they withstand hurricane-force winds, but they’ll also make it much more difficult for burglars to break in.

Are impact windows soundproof?

Impact windows are designed to protect against flying debris in high winds, and they also have the added benefit of blocking out noise. But just how effective are they at soundproofing a home?

To answer this question, it is important to understand how sound waves travel and how impact windows can block them. Sound waves are vibrations that travel through the air and are then detected by our ears. These waves can be of different frequencies, which is what determines how we perceive them. For example, low frequency sounds like a bass drum have long waves, while high frequency sounds like a cymbal have shorter waves.

Impact windows work to block out sound by absorbing the waves and preventing them from reaching our ears. The thickness of the glass and the type of material used in the frame are both important factors in how well the window will block out noise.

So, are impact windows soundproof? The answer is yes, they can be very effective at blocking out intrusive noise from outside the home. However, it is important to note that no window is 100% effective at blocking out all sound. The level of soundproofing will vary depending on the factors mentioned above.

How long do impact windows last?

The lifespan of an impact window is typically 20-30 years. However, this lifespan can be extended with proper care and maintenance. Impact windows are designed to withstand high winds and heavy rains, but they can also be susceptible to damage from flying debris or tree branches. To extend the lifespan of your impact windows, it is important to inspect them regularly for any signs of damage and to repair any damage as soon as possible. Additionally, you should clean your impact windows at least once a year to remove any dirt, dust, or pollen that could build up and cause damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are impact windows and how do they work?

Impact windows are made of a sturdy and durable plastic or metal frame covered with transparent material. The panes inside the window are designed to deflect impact forces away from the building, keeping the walls and other furniture inside safe. These windows are typically used in places like schools and hospitals, where the outer wall might be too strong to tear down in case of a windstorm.

Are impact windows good for hurricane protection?

2. Impact windows can resist severe weather conditions, including massive wind and rain loads. This makes them an ideal option for keeping your family safe during dangerous storms. 3. If broken by a powerful storm, impact window panes will stay firmly in place and offer limited casing damage. This is due to the windows’ thick glass, frame, and seals combined with the pressure of extreme weather. 4. Impact windows require no ongoing maintenance— other than properly cleaning the surface with a specific window cleaner on a regular basis. There are also few or no replacement parts that must be replaced over time, making these windows a cost-effective solution for long-term protection against weather disasters. 5. Installation of an impact window is quick and easy-- even someone without professional installation experience can do it themselves within a few hours! And if ever there is a problem with the window, it's very easy to replace just the pane -- not the entire window. 6

What is the difference between impact windows and shutters?

Impact windows are the most effective storm protection system and protect your entire home. Shutters have to be installed or closed by the homeowner, which may take time, and they only protect a specific window or door.

Do I need to replace my windows to install impact glass?

No, impact glass can be installed over your current windows. However, Impact Windows do have a sturdier frame, so you'll need to replace them if you choose this type of window.

What is a high impact window?

High impact windows are windows that are designed to withstand wind-borne debris and break-ins. These windows are made with heavy-duty frames and safety glass which is carefully sealed to keep the glass from breaking away from the frame.

Tillie Fabbri

Tillie Fabbri

Writer at CGAA

View Tillie's Profile

Tillie Fabbri is an accomplished article author who has been writing for the past 10 years. She has a passion for communication and finding stories in unexpected places. Tillie earned her degree in journalism from a top university, and since then, she has gone on to work for various media outlets such as newspapers, magazines, and online publications.

View Tillie's Profile