Miami homeowners realize how to protect their property during hurricane season. High winds, flying debris, and heavy rain may damage any home if it is not properly secured. Impact windows and hurricane shutters are among the most common storm protection measures. As protective as either of them is, they are vastly different in convenience, durability, aesthetics, and long-term value. Knowing these distinctions can help homeowners decide between the options.
Impact Windows
Impact windows selected by Miami homeowners for hurricane-force winds and flying debris are specifically designed to withstand these conditions. They have multi-layered glass panels bonded with a durable interlayer to prevent shattering on impact. Even if the glass cracks, it’s usually secured to the interlayer, maintaining the home’s protective barrier. Those windows are specifically designed to meet Florida’s strict building codes and can provide year-round protection.
Hurricane Shutters
Hurricane shutters are protective coverings placed over existing windows before a hurricane act as storm protection during severe weather. Many styles are available. They vary widely and come in accordion, roll-down, Bahama, and panel styles, among others. Shutters can effectively protect windows in severe weather, but manually or automatically, they need to be installed or closed before a storm hits. Their effectiveness is reduced if they are not properly installed or if they have gaps that create openings.
Comparing Protection Levels
Impact Resistance
Both solutions mitigate the impact of flying debris. Impact windows provide continuous protection even without pre-storm preparation. Hurricane shutters may offer great protection, but are only effective if properly closed and secured.
Wind Pressure Performance
Modern impact windows and doors installed by homeowners in Miami are tested to withstand extreme wind pressures typical of hurricane conditions. They help maintain the building’s envelope and minimize the likelihood of internal pressure buildup that can eventually cause structural damage. Shutters also guard against wind damage, but their effectiveness depends on how strong the window behind them is.
Convenience and Ease of Use
Convenience is perhaps one of the greatest benefits of impact windows. They are always ready, regardless of when a storm develops. Homeowners with hurricane shutters need to:
- Monitor storm forecasts
- Install or close shutters before the storm hits
- Remove or reopen them afterwards
For most Miami residents, the ease of living in a protected home offers a great opportunity to make use of year-round protection.
Additional Benefits of Impact Windows
Beyond storm protection, Miami is blessed with impact windows that let us take care of our homes no matter what time of year they are in operation:
- Increased home security
- Improved energy efficiency
- Reduced outside noise
- Increased property value
- Better UV protection for the interiors.
Hurricane shutters are primarily protective against storms and do not usually provide these benefits when not in use.
Cost Considerations
Hurricane shutters usually have a lower upfront cost than impact windows do. Nonetheless, impact windows can be more valuable in the short and long term due to energy savings, lower maintenance costs, and increased property appeal. Impact windows can make sense to homeowners who intend to remain in their homes for years to come.