Window experts guide homeowners through the many options, explaining styles and materials. They help choose windows that meet Florida’s strict building standards and offer energy efficiency, hurricane protection, and increased home value.
Hurricane-resistant windows protect the home from flying debris and high winds. They also save energy and reduce the strain on the air conditioning system during hot summers.
Impact-Resistant Windows
Designed to withstand hurricane-force winds, impact windows offer year-round protection from harsh weather conditions and increased home security. They are also highly energy efficient and help to reduce harmful UV rays that cause furniture, carpeting, and artwork to fade over time. In addition, impact windows and doors reduce outside noise, making them ideal for homes in urban areas or those located near busy roads.
Look for impact-resistant windows that have passed standardized testing for strength and durability. These include small missile impact tests and cyclic pressure tests that simulate hurricane wind conditions. You can also check for a Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance (NOA) and Florida Building Code approval, which are some of the strictest standards in the country.
You should also consider a provider that offers high-quality materials, such as thick extruded aluminum. This will ensure superior strength and resilience in any storm. They should also provide a warranty on both the windows and installation services.
Energy-Efficient Windows
Choosing energy efficient windows for your home can help you save money, lower your electricity bills and decrease the amount of wear on your air conditioner. They can also increase your home’s resale value.
The most energy efficient windows have a low U-factor, low solar heat gain coefficient and argon gas filling between panes. They are a great option for homes that face long hours of direct sunlight, especially on the west and south sides.
Wood windows are a natural insulator, keeping your home cool in the summer and warm during cooler periods. They can be crafted into a wide variety of styles and are a beautiful addition to any home. However, they require a lot of upkeep and can be susceptible to damage from humidity.
For homeowners who want the best of both worlds, fiberglass impact windows are available that combine the strength and durability of aluminum with the energy efficiency of vinyl. They have a high strength to weight ratio and can resist hurricane-force winds and debris.
Vinyl Windows
Compared to aluminum, vinyl windows have a sleek, modern aesthetic that complements contemporary homes. They’re also resistant to moisture and corrosion. The material is also a good choice for homeowners who want durable window glass in areas prone to tropical storms and hurricanes. However, these windows have lower structural strength, so they may not provide adequate protection against strong winds and flying debris.
They’re a cost-effective option for Florida homes because they’re easy to maintain and don’t require frequent painting or staining. They also offer a variety of color and texture options, so you can find the perfect match for your home’s exterior design.
Unlike aluminum, vinyl is an effective insulator and won’t corrode in humid climates like Florida. It’s also durable and offers excellent energy efficiency with argon and krypton glass fills and Low-E coatings. Moreover, vinyl windows can be made in a wide range of shapes and styles to suit any architectural style.
Wood Windows
Wood windows offer timeless elegance and a sense of warmth to any home, and they are able to be custom stained and painted for maximum versatility. They are also a popular choice for historic or traditional homes in Palm Coast, FL. While they can be more expensive than other materials, they offer unmatched beauty and durability.
Aluminum windows are lightweight and easy to maintain, and they provide a sleek aesthetic that’s ideal for modern homes. However, they can be difficult to insulate and can become prone to condensation in humid environments. They’re also a poor insulator, but modern aluminum windows with thermal breaks can improve energy efficiency.
Fiberglass strikes a balance between strength, energy efficiency and low maintenance. It is also resistant to swelling, warping and bowing, and it can withstand inclement weather and pests such as termites, carpenter ants and powderpost beetles. Additionally, fiberglass is an excellent insulator, and it’s available in a variety of styles to complement any architectural style.