When the stormy season looms near, protecting your home should be one of the top items on your to-do list. And while this should have been done long before now, sometimes, it’s not as easy as it sounds. One of the best ways to protect your home is by installing storm-resistant windows and doors.
They keep your home safe from high winds, flying debris, and those rumbling rains. Plus, they provide excellent energy efficiency and security. There’s no doubt that good ones save the day when they are needed.
But how do they work and do you know all the benefits? Let’s get right to the details, shall we? You can click here to learn more about these products with their pros and cons.
Why Choose Storm-Resistant Windows and Doors?
There are several benefits that come from installing these types of windows and doors. The following are some to consider making an informed decision.
- Protection from Extreme Weather
If you understand anything about high winds and flying debris you wouldn’t consider regular, off the shelf windows as a viable option. Of course, if a window in your home is destroyed by debris or wind it cannot protect your home anymore since it is broken. Next comes the storm-resistant windows and doors. Thanks to the special design that will allow your house to bear any wind speeds and flying debris hits, your house will not be left open and helpless.
- Enhanced Home Security
We know that storm-resistant options are great when it comes to saving your home from storms. But they’re also super helpful in saving your home from breaking and entering! That’s right. Because of their design, they are much more challenging for potential robbers to breach. So, you can say hello to peace of mind in more ways than one.
- Noise Reduction
Anything that helps with controlling home security is a winner in our book. But there’s more to love about storm-resistant windows and doors than the fact that they’re harder to break into. There’s the beauty of noise reduction.
Homes with this fitting often appreciate this feature, especially if they are close to a highway or there are noisy neighbors close to them. Why? The insulated effect of the special design can often reduce noise pollution. And a quieter home usually leads to a happier environment on a broader scale.
- Energy Efficiency
Pretzel windows and doors are also focused on energy saving. Special design usually entails that they are made of several tiers of glass. They also assist in the insulation of the home, and; Of course, nobody wants to dwell on it but you don’t have to explain the benefits of having energy efficiency in your home to most people.
After all, when your home is well insulated you will not have your heating and cooling systems working all the time. And when they do not have to work over time, what you have is off the wall energy bills. Any one understands the fact that if energy bills come down the homeowner is a happier person.
Understanding How They Work
It may help you make the right choice in this area if you fully understand how storm-resistant doors and windows work. So, here is a brief breakdown of some of the important parts.
- Impact-Resistant Glass
Storm-resistant glass does not break when it’s hit with airborne debris during a storm. It has multiple layers, and a strong interior membrane holds the layers together when the glass is damaged. Storm-resistant glass may crack, but it won’t create dangerous shards if it breaks, so the inside of your home won’t be damaged.
- Strong Framing Materials
The frames must be as durable as the glass. Choose a material like vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass, so the frame is durable and long-lasting. These materials withstand the weather without being damaged.
3. Weatherproof Seals
In addition to the glass and frame, the windows and doors come with weatherproof seals. These prohibit water and air from coming through the glass. During heavy rains and windstorms, having weatherproof seals helps decrease water damage and mold.
The Installation Process: What You Need to Know
The installation of storm-resistant products is just as important as selecting the right windows and doors. Doing it right ensures everything works properly and provides protection as they should.
Initial Inspection: Before the work can begin, someone needs to come to your home to check the areas where you need the installation to get all the required details. A contractor will check the existing windows and doors, take measurements, and note any issues they need to address. An inspection is essential so that your new storm-resistant products are properly fitted.
Removing Old Windows and Doors: The next step is to carefully remove ones. The contractor must complete this process as carefully as they can so there’s no damage. It’s also important that they dispose of the old materials properly, especially if they are toxic.
Installing the New Storm-Resistant Products: With the removal of the old ones, it’s time to install the new products. The contractor will securely fit the windows and doors into place so you can be sure they work to capacity. This process is key to ensuring the new installation keeps out water and air during a storm so your family can have protection.
Sealing and Finishing Touches: Once the windows and doors are sealed with good quality sealant or caulk, it will truly streamline the home. This extra sealing will also save energy by keeping air and water out when necessary.
Final Inspection: A quality contractor will inspect their work after they install your windows and doors to make sure your new products function properly.
The Benefits of Professional Installation
Some homeowners may have confidence in themselves enough to perform the task on their own. But it’s very important to hire a contractor to install them for the best results.
Guaranteed Fit and Performance: Knowledgeable installers have the experience necessary to provide you with windows and doors that fit properly and work correctly. An incorrect fit can prove disastrous and leave you with windows and doors that aren’t performing as they’re supposed to.
Peace of Mind: Your contractor will make sure to install them properly according to code. This is especially significant in areas where high-impact windows and doors may be required by municipalities.
Long-Term Savings: Professional installation is typically pricier up front than DIY, but in many cases, it’s a money saver in the long run. Cracked caulk and other installation errors can result in energy loss, water damage, and the need for repair services down the road. When you partner with a proven pro to install your windows and doors, you can trust that they will be there to help your home perform as intended.
Conclusion
Storm-resistant windows and doors can prove themselves to be more than just a safety barrier. They’re a true investment in your home. When installed by a professional, these exterior updates will protect your home, cut your energy costs, and simplify your construction projects for decades to come.
