Exploring Window Options For Residential Buildings

When you live in a coastal area, there are things you need to be concerned about that don't typically affect those in the more inland environments. For example, coastal areas are more susceptible to damage from hurricanes and other similar storms that inland areas don't experience. If you've recently moved to an area like this and you're trying to ensure that your home is protected, you may be trying to decide if hurricane shutters are enough, or if you need to invest in impact-resistant windows. Here are some of the things to think about as you make your choice.

Weigh the Cost Versus the Benefits

When you're trying to protect your home on a budget, you may think that hurricane shutters are the way to go. After all, they are far less expensive than installing impact-resistant glass on all of your windows. However, you should also consider the benefit that you get from each to determine if the investment is worthwhile.

Remember that hurricane shutters will need to be installed before every storm because they aren't left in place permanently. If you're not physically able to install them yourself, you'll have to pay someone to do it each time they are needed. This can be costly over the life of the shutters. If you are going to do it yourself, that's a lot of time demand on your schedule, and you could be spending that time preparing your family for evacuation if it is necessary.

In addition, although impact-resistant glass is more expensive, it can also save you money in ways that hurricane shutters cannot. For example, impact-resistant glass, by its very structure, is designed with multiple panes. These panes can provide an insulating benefit that you won't get from traditional windows with hurricane shutters. This reduces your climate control costs. Further, the windows can block many ultraviolet rays, protecting your carpeting and furniture from sun fading that can lead to costly replacements.

Consider the Additional Improvements

When you install hurricane shutters, particularly if you opt for the permanently installed, roll-down variety, they can be somewhat unsightly on your home. You maintain your curb appeal when you opt for impact-resistant glass.

Not to mention, the durability of impact-resistant glass will also improve your home's security. Your home will be a more difficult target for burglars, which can reduce your homeowners insurance costs and protect your belongings from this extra investment.