Debunking Myths About Impact Resistant Windows
Impact-Resistant windows are commonly found throughout hurricane-prone and coastal markets. These products offer unrivaled protection and elegance for homes located in high wind areas. Despite their wide-spread success, impact-resistant windows are often surrounded by misconceptions that can prevent homeowners from recognizing their full benefits. This guide aims to address these myths and provide crucial information to help you make a well-informed decision about your home’s safety.
Myth 1: Hurricane Windows and Impact Resistant Windows Are the Same
Calling a window hurricane-proof or hurricane-resistant is misleading because it implies the window can fully withstand all aspects of a hurricane without the possibility of failure. However, no window can be completely “hurricane-proof” due to the unpredictable and severe forces a hurricane can unleash, such as high winds, pressure changes, and flying debris
Despite some people using the terms interchangeably, hurricane windows and impact resistant windows do not offer the same levels of protection.
Hurricane Windows are designed to withstand high wind speeds, but this doesn’t always mean they’re impact-resistant. They are held together with one or more layers of laminated PVB (polyvinyl butyral) that adds flexibility for windows to bend slightly in heavy winds without breaking. If struck, hurricane windows are more likely to shatter but will remain bonded to the PVB, preventing shards of glass from scattering into the home. They can be an excellent option for regions where high winds are a concern but where flying debris might be less likely.
In contrast Impact-Resistant Windows like our OceanView products are built with a 15/16″ Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) that combines a tempered exterior lite, a laminated interior lite, and an argon gas fill, all sealed by the super energy-efficient Duralite spacer system by Quanex. The exterior tempered glass lite, often called “sacrificial”, absorbs much of the initial impact from debris and will shatter. This protective IGU is housed in a robust, chambered vinyl frame that is reinforced with aluminum rods— adding an extra layer of resilience to withstand strong impacts without compromising structural integrity.
For areas prone to hurricanes, it’s usually safest to go with impact-resistant windows to ensure the highest level of protection. OceanView impact-resistant windows not only offer superior protection compared to traditional hurricane windows, but also contribute to a more secure, quieter, and energy-efficient home.
Myth 2: Impact Resistant Windows Are Too Expensive
A common myth about impact-resistant windows is their perceived high cost. However, when considering their long-term benefits and cost-effectiveness, it’s clear that they are a valuable investment for homeowners. Viwinco OceanView impact-resistant windows, in particular, deliver substantial energy savings while balancing durability and affordability. Designed to minimize heat transfer, they help maintain a cooler home in summer and a warmer one in winter. The insulated glass unit (IGU) is set within a robust, chambered vinyl frame, creating a sleek, durable, and thermally efficient profile that significantly reduces ultraviolet light (heat) entering your home, leading to noticeable reductions in energy bills. With high-grade components and reinforcements, OceanView windows offer peace of mind, protection, and energy efficiency, resulting in a profitable return on investment.
In addition to energy savings, impact-resistant windows can enhance your home’s resale value, as more buyers seek energy-efficient features. With a 67.1% ROI, impact-resistant windows are among the most profitable home upgrades, attracting potential buyers and adding value to your property. While these windows may have a higher initial cost than shutters, they offer unmatched long-term value and convenience, especially when installed by experienced professionals. To ensure top-quality installation, consider choosing a Blue Label Preferred Installer through our Blue Label Program, ensuring your investment delivers the best possible performance and value.
Myth 3: Storm Shutters Offer the Same Protection as Impact Resistant Windows
When it comes to protecting your home from hurricanes, there’s a common misconception that storm shutters provide equivalent protection to impact-resistant windows. While both options aim to safeguard your home, there are significant differences between them.
Impact-resistant windows offer continuous, year-round protection, making them a more convenient solution. Our impact-resistant products feature a 15/16″ IGU made of a tempered exterior glass lite, a laminated interior glass lite, and an argon gas fill for enhanced energy efficiency. This durable design protects against strong winds, debris, UV rays and noise: all in a permanent fixture that requires no additional setup before a storm. Conversely, storm shutters are temporary barriers that need to be prepared for each storm. This can be time-consuming and may not always be feasible, especially if you’re not home when a storm approaches or are in a hurry to evacuate.
Unlike storm shutters, impact-resistant windows provide significant noise reduction due to their laminated interlayer. This extra layer minimizes outside sounds, making your home quieter during storms or everyday neighborhood activities.
Another advantage of impact-resistant windows is their ability to filter harmful UV rays while allowing natural light. This feature allows your home to remain bright and comfortable while protecting furniture, flooring, and other interiors from sun damage.
Myth 4: Impact Resistant Windows Are Unattractive
One of the most persistent misconceptions about impact-resistant windows is that they lack aesthetic appeal. Homeowners sometimes worry that impact resistant windows are unattractive and can diminish their home’s aesthetic appeal. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Today’s impact resistant windows are engineered not only for durability, but with an array of designs in mind to complement any architectural style.
Viwinco’s OceanView line offers a wide range of frame colors, exterior laminates and grid patterns and simulated divided lites (SDLs) to enhance your home inside and out. The OceanView line is also available in popular styles like double-hung, casement, picture windows and more. These flexible design options make it easy to match existing home aesthetics or create a fresh look without compromising safety. The Oceanview profile aligns seamlessly with our S-Series New Construction and Cambridge Replacement window products, ensuring a consistent appearance when matching with other Viwinco windows. To see more examples of the OceanView, visit our Project Gallery.
Choosing impact resistant windows not only protects your home from severe weather but also enhances curb appeal and long-term property value. With Viwinco’s customizable OceanView line, you can enjoy peace of mind and protection without sacrificing style.
In Conclusion
Impact resistant windows offer more than just hurricane protection— they deliver a year-round solution that enhances the comfort, security, and appeal of your home. By debunking these common myths, we’ve shown that impact-resistant windows are an investment in both safety and style. From the OceanView’s impact-resistant glass package to its ability to reduce noise, protect from UV rays, and customizable aesthetics, these windows are designed to meet the needs of modern homeowners who value both form and function.
If you’re interested in Viwinco OceanView products for your home, visit our Where to Buy page to locate a Viwinco dealer near you. For information on our Blue Label Preferred Installers, check out our Blue Label Section for more details.
