Storm-Resistant Windows and Doors for Home Protection

Windows and doors have various ratings related to their energy efficiency and strength. Some can withstand extreme weather, such as excessive wind and hail. When you need greater protection for your home, consider storm-resistant windows and doors. 

What Are Storm-Resistant Windows and Doors?

Washington experiences extreme weather events regularly. That means that homes need extra protection from debris smashing through glass windows and doors. Impact-resistant windows can help strengthen your home’s protection from weather events. 

Impact glass includes tempered glass, which some people also call safety glass. It is four times stronger than standard glass. And if it does break, it offers a safer scenario because it splinters into small pieces instead of creating large shards.

Some municipalities require tempered glass for windows to reduce the chance of injury. Many building codes include requirements for tempered glass near bathtubs or windows that sit low to the ground. 

Impact windows include a second type of glass called laminated glass. Window manufacturers create this type of glass using a sheet of plastic between two glass panes to help strengthen it. If the glass does break, the plastic layers help keep the broken pieces together to prevent projectiles and reduce injuries.

Thanks to this unique combination of safety glass and laminated glass, impact-resistant windows can withstand heavy objects hurled at them at incredible speeds. Glass manufacturers use 2×4 wood planks to test the glass. They send these planks toward the windows at speeds of 35 miles per hour or more. And the glass does not break.

Benefits of Storm-resistant Glass

Storm-resistant windows and doors can make your home a safer place to be during storms. Here’s a look at the many benefits impact-resistant windows and doors can boast.

• Turns your home into a safe place to be during storms
• Storms are less likely to cause severe building damage since homes with broken windows can lead to even worse damage or even the whole building collapsing
• Better theft and intruder protection since the windows are harder to penetrate
• Sound dampening to make your home a more enjoyable place to be
• No more need for shutters or sheets of plywood to be installed during forecasted weather events

Get to Know Glass Types and Labels

As you shop for windows and doors for your home, you’ll encounter a series of labels and markings. Get to know what those labels mean and how they impact your home and the window’s overall performance.

1. Panes

At a minimum, you want double-pane windows for your home. One pane will allow too much heat loss and gain. Plus, more panes mean more protection from flying objects during storms. Double-pane windows have a layer of gas between them that helps reduce condensation.

2. Low-E Coatings

While Washington isn’t known for being especially sunny, low-E coatings could help make your windows more energy efficient and provide UV protection for your indoor belongings.

These coatings are extremely thin metal added to the glass surface. They help reflect radiant heat to avoid heat loss or gain through your windows and doors while preventing sun damage on your floors, textiles and furniture.

If you’re worried about what this will make your window look like, don’t be. These coatings are extremely thin and not noticeable. 

3. Gas

Multi-pane windows are good but they are made better by the gas that sits between the panes. The panes site approximately a half inch apart. And when they have argon gas between them, they are even more energy efficient. The inert gas is common and appears in the air we breathe. 

4. Decorative Glass

If you want a little extra flare in your home, decorative glass can provide that appearance and provided added privacy. Glass can be tinted, frosted or otherwise obscured especially in bathrooms or bedrooms. Some homeowners like having decorative glass at their entryway to help prevent theft by masking what’s inside the home. But it still allows natural light into these spaces and can make a room distinctive.

5. Decorative Bars

Another part of your window’s appearance that has no impact on its performance is the addition of decorative bars. These bars are placed between glass panes to keep the window easy to clean. The bars can create grid patterns and add decoration to your home without masking views to the outdoors like decorative glass can.

6. Window Material

You’ll also have the choice of window material when selecting your windows. The most popular window materials are wood, clad, fiberglass, aluminum and vinyl. Each provides varying benefits.

• Wood: This classic material is popular and timeless. It offers long-lasting performance and offers the option to paint or stain the wood as trends adapt. They do not allow as much condensation as some other materials and are good at insulating the home and providing a sound barrier. However, they are susceptible to rot and pests and require more maintenance than other window materials.
• Clad: Enjoy the appearance of wood windows without the maintenance. Clad windows are either aluminum or fiberglass that then have wood placed overtop of the frame. You can customize these windows with greater easy and enjoy the aesthetically pleasing appearance of wood. When well maintained, these windows offer durable longevity. However, they are more expensive than other window types and can have quality issues where the cladding separates from the window frame with time. While the separation does not impact the window’s function, it will impact its appearance.
• Fiberglass: For strong, durable windows, fiberglass is a popular option. They often look like wood, which makes for an attractive home feature. With strong energy efficiency and minimal maintenance required, homeowners enjoy the versatility these windows provide. However, fiberglass windows are more expensive and have less customization options. 
• Aluminum: Modern homes lend themselves well to aluminum windows while offering a lightweight option. Aluminum windows are more affordable than wood but you can’t repaint or customize them once they are installed. Enjoy insect-proof windows that are durable. The largest setback to aluminum is that it is not very energy efficient and can face moisture problems.
• Vinyl: These are the most common window types because they balance durability with cost. They are energy efficient and require minimal maintenance. You won’t face rot or corrosion with vinyl windows and can enjoy a long lifespan. Plus, because they are lightweight, the might cost less to install compared to other materials. While vinyl windows boast many benefits, they do have fewer design options, might fade with time and are challenging to recycle.

Why Proper Installation Matters

Storm-resistant windows and doors can only protect a building when installed correctly. These are not good do-it-yourself projects because they are a part of the home’s integrity. Poor installation could void the warranty, shorten the product life or put your home’s foundation at risk due to water damage.

Proper installation ensures your windows provide the protection your manufacturer promises. And it protects your home from serious weather events so you can rest easier.

Work with a competent installation contractor who knows your local building codes and the requirements for window and door installation in your area. 

2FL Windows, Siding and Roofing provides window replacement from experts who know proper installation procedures and patented their own. 2FL is the creator of the Rain Jacket Flashing System, which makes window installations more weather-resistant and capable of withstanding driving rain and extreme wind. We’ll give your home the weather barrier it needs. Schedule your free in-home estimate now to learn more and start the process of protecting your home.

Further Reading:

• Black Metal Roofing: A Stylish and Durable Choice
• Factors Influencing the Cost to Replace Windows
• Property Manager’s Commercial Roofing Guide
• Average Cost of a New Roof: What to Expect