Windows play an essential role in every home. They provide natural light, ventilation, and enhance a home’s appearance. Ensuring that they are durable and long-lasting is vital for a comfortable lifestyle.
Impact windows provide all the benefits of regular windows with added toughness. Designed for homes exposed to strong winds and harsh weather, these windows are crucial in areas prone to hurricanes and other extreme weather conditions. They help protect you and your family while maintaining your home’s comfort.
Aside from durability and security, you might wonder—are impact windows also energy-efficient? The experts from Prestige Windows & Doors are here to explain.
Impact Windows and Laminated Glass
Impact windows are designed to be tougher and more resistant to external elements. The glass used in an impact window is called laminated glass. It starts with a durable plastic layer known as Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB), which is placed between two pieces of tempered glass.
These layers are then fused using heat and pressure in a process called lamination. The result is a strong, impact-resistant pane of glass. To visualize this, imagine a sandwich. The PVB layer acts as the cheese, while the two glass sheets serve as the bread. Once pressed together, the materials fuse into a single, solid piece—similar to a waffle being pressed in a maker.
Because of this unique construction, impact windows can withstand strong external forces like wind and hail. When the outer glass layer breaks, the shards stick to the PVB layer instead of scattering dangerously inside your home. Meanwhile, the inner glass layer and the reinforced aluminum frame remain intact, preserving the window’s structure.
Manufacturers can make the glass even stronger by adding more layers or using tougher materials. This makes impact windows not only durable but also reliable in protecting your home against severe weather.
Energy-Efficiency Benefits of Impact Windows
Because of their structure, impact windows can help maintain indoor temperatures more effectively. They retain heat or cool air inside while blocking wind, rain, and sunlight from entering.
The laminated glass and sturdy frame provide insulation that typical wooden frames cannot match. For example, during cooler months, impact windows help keep warmth indoors. During warmer months, they reflect more heat away from your home, helping maintain a comfortable temperature.
As a result, your heating and cooling systems work more efficiently, reducing your energy consumption. Impact windows consistently achieve some of the highest energy performance ratings among window types. They are a smart investment for homeowners in various climates, combining durability, comfort, and energy savings.
Choose Prestige Windows & Doors for Quality and Reliability
Looking for new storefront windows and doors for your business? We highly recommend Custom Windows Systems’ energy-efficient windows for superior value and performance.
For expert installation, trust Prestige Windows & Doors. With more than 20 years of recognized excellence, our team delivers unmatched quality and reliability. Our impact windows and doors have performance ratings that set the standard in the industry.
Contact Us Today!
For any inquiries, call us at (866)-466-5094 or fill out our online form to request an estimate. We proudly serve clients and homeowners across Miami-Dade County, Broward County, Palm Beach County, and Monroe County (Upper Keys), FL.