Regardless of where you live, your home needs to be protected from storms. However, if you live in a location that is likely to be subjected to hurricanes and tropical storms, you will want to make sure that you follow all the procedures necessary to receive insurance money following a natural disaster. This often includes having impact windows installed as a preventative measure. Here are a few things that you will want to know about impact windows, prior to installation.

Are There Discounts Available?

One of the downsides to hurricane resistant windows is the price that comes with them. Thankfully, most insurance providers will offer you discounts to your premium if you take more precautions to protect your home. You want to make sure you talk to your agent to find out what benefits they offer and then what requirements must be met to obtain those benefits.

How are they Different?

Impact windows are designed to have glass that is resistant to shattering when they have been struck by debris. They are usually attached to an aluminum frame and they have tempered glass that is bonded to a membrane that is shatter-proof. The membrane is generally a plastic that will vary in thickness, depending on what degree of protection you are searching for. Theoretically, when the window is struck, the glass will break and then adhere to the plastic instead of breaking through.

Why are Windows Important to Structural Integrity?

When it comes to the structural integrity of your home, you need to realize how important your windows truly are. Your window offers protection from the high winds and keep the air pressure regulated. If you suddenly have an increase in air pressure in the house, you are more likely to lose the roof of your home. This also means you are more likely to sustain serious damage to the interior of your home; so when your windows go, much of your house is likely to follow.

What Other Benefits do they Have?

Impact windows are not only beneficial when it comes to storms. These windows, that come in a variety of tints, have the ability to add color to your home and help with your home's energy efficiency. From the way these windows are designed, they prevent UV rays from heating the inside of your house. There are some impact windows that have even higher energy efficiency ratings, but they are often higher in price.

When you are purchasing impact windows for the first time, you will want to talk to an experienced contractor. You want to make sure you know the prices of the windows and what the differences are, and always compare that to the price of installation. The installation of these windows are just as important, and it is best if you know what warranty is available for if something happens in the future.