Upgrading your windows can add a lot of value to your home. Not only can they increase your curb appeal, but they can also save you money by lowering your utility bills.
Energy-efficient windows are necessary for Florida homes because they keep heat and humidity out, reducing the strain on your air conditioner during the hot summer months. Vinyl frames are a great choice for Florida, as they don’t conduct heat like aluminum frames.
Impact-Resistant Glass
Florida windows and doors are a crucial component of your home if you reside in a hurricane-prone area like Florida. As flying debris is the main culprit in storm damage, these windows can withstand the power of flying debris. In addition, they shield your home’s interior from damaging UV rays and reduce noise pollution.
Traditional glass, called float glass, breaks into large, sharp shards during a storm, leaving the interior of your home exposed to rain and debris. Impact windows are made of a thicker, stronger type of glass that can withstand the force of debris without breaking or shattering.
While they cost more than regular windows, they offer several benefits. In addition to protecting your home from extreme weather, they can save you money on energy costs and may even qualify you for a lower insurance premium. You can identify impact-resistant glass by looking for an etched mark or a label on the corner of the window.
Energy-efficient Windows
A window’s job is a difficult one: it.
- It lets light in but blocks UV and infrared rays, i.
- It prevents cool-conditioned air from leaking out in the summer and warm outside air from seeping in during the winter; a.
Sinceorida is prone to hurricanes and tornadoes, it also must protect against wind-borne debris.
Energy-efficient windows strength and durability
Energy-efficient windows can help with all of these issues. They use insulated frames and glass units to keep heat out and cold in, which reduces energy bills. They can also be made with clad frames, combining wood’s aesthetics with vinyl or aluminum’s strength and durability.
To choose the best energy-efficient windows for your home, look for a U-factor below 0.30 and a solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) below 0.4.. A reputable home improvement company can help you find the right energy-efficient impact windows for your Florida house.
Vinyl Windows
There are many window types to choose from that check the boxes for visual appeal, energy efficiency, and protection against storms and hurricanes. One that many people have discovered is highly effective and versatile is vinyl windows.
Made from what is known as PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), these windows offer a wide range of customization and style options to suit any home. They are also highly durable and require little maintenance beyond occasional cleaning with soap and water.
They excel at providing energy efficiency because the vinyl material minimizes heat transfer and helps keep the hot Florida sun outside and the air-conditioning inside. This makes them especially appropriate for homes in humid climates like Orlando.
They are available in various colors and can be made to resemble wood or aluminum for a more natural appearance. They are also highly durable and can withstand much weathering without fading or warping. This allows them to maintain their attractive appearance for years.
Wood Windows
Wood windows are a classic choice that can add elegance and beauty to any home. They’re a natural insulator resistant to heat and cold, rain and sun. They also expand and contract less than other frames, preventing seal failure that lets outside air into your house and causes your energy bills to rise.
Wood window frames are often covered by a protective surface, such as vinyl or aluminum, to protect them from the elements. Cladding helps keep your wood windows in good condition, avoiding rotting or insect infestation.
Conclusion
Whether or not you choose wood windows will depend on your preferences and local building codes. For example, some areas in Florida, like Palm Beach County, are considered High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ), requiring impact windows that meet higher standards than others. Ensure your impact windows comply with HVHZ requirements and NFRC guidelines for southern climate zones by looking for a U-Factor rating below 0.40.
