If you live in Maryland, you know how unpredictable the weather can be. High winds from storms can cause significant damage to homes, including broken windows that leave your property vulnerable to further destruction. One way to protect your home is with impact-resistant window installation. But what exactly are they, and how do they compare to other stormproof options?
What Are Impact-Resistant Windows?
Strong winds can break standard windows, especially if they carry debris such as tree branches or other objects. Traditional glass is not built to withstand the pressure changes and flying debris associated with severe storms. Impact-resistant windows, however, are tested to endure high wind speeds and resist breaking even under extreme conditions, making them an excellent investment for homeowners in storm-prone areas like Maryland.
Unlike standard glass windows, these windows use laminated glass combined with a strong interlayer that holds the glass together even if it shatters. This prevents dangerous shards from becoming airborne and protects your home’s interior from wind, rain, and debris.
Hurricane Windows vs. Impact Windows
Many homeowners wonder about the difference between hurricane windows and impact-resistant windows. In most cases, the terms are used interchangeably. However, hurricane windows are specifically designed to withstand extreme hurricane-force winds, while impact-resistant windows provide similar protection from storms, flying debris, and even attempted break-ins. Both types of windows can help safeguard your home, but it’s essential to choose a product rated for your region’s specific weather conditions.
Types of Impact Windows
There are different types of impact-resistant windows available, each offering varying levels of protection and aesthetics:
Laminated Glass Windows
These windows consist of two panes of glass bonded together with a durable interlayer, designed to enhance safety and durability. The interlayer holds the glass in place, preventing shattering upon impact and reducing the risk of injury or damage. This construction also offers additional benefits, such as improved insulation and noise reduction, making it a practical choice for both residential and commercial spaces.
Tempered Glass Windows
Although not as strong as laminated glass, tempered glass is specially treated through a process of extreme heating followed by rapid cooling to enhance its strength. This process makes it significantly more durable than regular glass and ensures that, when broken, it shatters into small, dull pieces rather than sharp, jagged shards. This safety feature makes tempered glass a popular choice for applications like car windows, shower doors, and screen protectors.
PVB Windows
These windows feature an interlayer of PVB (polyvinyl butyral), a material known for its strength and flexibility. This interlayer enhances the overall durability of the glass, providing added resistance to breakage. In the event of an impact, the PVB holds the glass together, preventing it from shattering into dangerous fragments and ensuring greater safety and longevity.
SGP (SentryGlas Plus) Windows
This is a more robust interlayer option designed to provide superior resistance against impact and breakage, making it ideal for applications that demand high durability and safety. Its advanced composition ensures long-lasting performance even under challenging conditions.
Each of these window options offers distinct advantages depending on the application and level of protection required. Choosing the right type of glass is crucial for ensuring safety, durability, and resilience in various environments.
Benefits of Installing Impact-Resistant Windows
If you’re considering impact window installation, here are some key benefits to keep in mind:
- Increased protection – Safeguard your home from hurricanes, strong storms, and flying debris.
- Improved energy efficiency – Reduce heat transfer and lower energy bills due to the insulating properties of impact-resistant glass.
- Noise reduction – Enjoy a quieter indoor environment by blocking out external noise.
- UV protection – Minimize fading of furniture, carpets, and decor caused by ultraviolet rays.
- Enhanced security – Deter break-ins as impact windows are much harder to shatter than traditional glass.
- Potential insurance discounts – Some insurance providers offer reduced premiums for homes with impact-resistant windows.
When looking for professional impact window installation near you, it’s crucial to choose a reputable company with experience in storm-proof solutions. Ensure they offer certified products tested for high wind resistance and proper installation techniques to maximize protection.
Choose Master Seal for Impact-Resistant Window Installation in Maryland
If you live in Maryland and are concerned about the effects of strong storms and high winds on your home, impact-resistant windows are a smart investment. They offer superior protection, energy efficiency, and added security, making them a worthwhile upgrade for any homeowner. Whether you need hurricane windows or general storm-proof windows, installing impact-resistant glass can provide long-term peace of mind and safety for your home and family. Contact Master Seal today for more information, to get a quote, or to schedule your home improvement project. Call 855.608.1580 or connect with us online.
