SHOULD YOU CONSIDER THE IMPACT WINDOW OPTION?

Deciding whether to change the existing windows of a house is an important decision to make since windows have a significant influence on the ventilation, interior temperature and lighting of a house. Equally important, replacing windows is a major investment that makes a tremendous impact on the house's architectural identity. Therefore, when it is time for a window facelift, homeowners need the honest advice from a professional window company that can explain the advantages and disadvantages of the alternatives available to them. One of most important decision is to make a choice between purchasing standard-glass windows with hurricane shutters and installing impact-resistant windows that do not require shutter protection.

STANDARD VERSUS IMPACT WINDOWS

Cost, convenience, appearance and time commitment are the four major differentiating factors to consider when choosing between standard-glass and impact-resistant windows. With regular, standard-glass windows, the Florida Building Code demands the installation of storm panels in every house opening in order to provide for hurricane protection. The combined initial cost of purchasing and installing standard windows with shutters is less than buying and installing impact-resistant windows. However, the cost comparison can change substantially over time if we factor the time commitment for installing and uninstalling storm panels every time there is a hurricane warning, especially if mounted panels are used. Astor Windows and Doors can assist you weighting between these two alternatives and discuss in detailed the following advantages and disadvantages of these two options.

TYPE OF WINDOW	ADVANTAGES	DISADVANTAGES
STANDARD GLASS WINDOWS WITH STORM PANELS	More affordable initial costs	Time commitment to install and uninstall Appearance Inconvenience - must be present to secure house No noise reduction Storage requirement Lack of visibility and lighting when installed
IMPACT WINDOWS	24-HR hurricane protection No time commitment to install and uninstall Great appearance Excellent noise reduction Increased burglary protection Improved UV reduction that turns into electrical consumption savings No storage requirement	Higher upfront costs Exterior glass panel might break if impacted