home windows Archives - 1st Choice Hurricane Protection

Hurricane-Resistant Windows: Enhancing Energy Efficiency and Boosting Home Value

SEO Vectra on March 24, 2025

When people hear the word hurricane-resistant windows, the first thing that usually comes to mind is the protection these windows offer from harsh storms and flying debris. While that is the main reason these windows are designed they can do much more than just keep you safe during a hurricane. Let’s explore how they improve energy efficiency, increase home value, and are a smart investment for homeowners.

More Than Just Storm Protection

Hurricane-resistant windows are primarily built to withstand the harsh weather conditions brought on by storms. They are made from impact-resistant glass and robust frames, which prevent them from shattering like regular windows upon impact from debris.

By installing them, you no longer need to struggle with deploying shutters before a storm, as these windows will keep you protected irrespective of whether the sky is clear or cloudy. They offer year-round benefits that go beyond just storm protection, making them a practical upgrade for any home.

Energy Efficiency

Another benefit of hurricane-resistant windows is their ability to improve energy efficiency. These windows are made from high-quality materials that provide excellent insulation. During hot summer months, they help keep the cool indoor air inside, reducing the pressure on your HVAC system. In cool winter months, they prevent the warm air from escaping, helping maintain a comfortable indoor environment without overworking your heating system.

This improved energy efficiency helps reduce energy consumption, leading to lower energy bills. Many of these windows also have special coatings that block UV rays, thus helping keep your home cooler while preventing your indoor belongings from fading due to sun exposure.

Boosting Home Value

Installing hurricane-resistant windows is a great way to increase your home’s value. Prospective buyers find properties equipped with impact-resistant windows to be much more appealing. These windows don’t just improve the safety of your home but also its energy efficiency, which are the two features that buyers actively look for.

Other than attracting buyers, these windows also help reduce your homeowners’ insurance premiums. Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes that are equipped with storm protection features like impact windows and doors. So while installing them involves an upfront cost, the potential savings you may make on insurance makes them a smart investment.

Benefits Beyond Hurricane Protection

Even if you live in an area that is rarely hit by storms and hurricanes, you can still consider getting hurricane-resistant windows. Other than storm protection, these windows offer benefits like reducing outside noise and making your home more peaceful, especially if you live in a noisy neighborhood or near a busy market.

Another benefit they offer is added security. As these windows are designed to resist strong impacts, they are much harder to break as compared to standard windows. They provide an added layer of protection against break-ins, allowing homeowners to be worry-free.

Boost your home’s value and make it more energy-efficient and secure by installing hurricane shutters in Cape Coral, FL. Reach out to 1st Choice Hurricane Protection for help in choosing windows. Our skilled team is here to assist you in making the right choice for your home so you can be worry-free all year round

Why Hurricane Impact Windows are a Must-Have for Florida Homeowners

SEO Vectra on December 20, 2024

Living in Florida offers beautiful scenic beaches, bright sunny days and a relaxed lifestyle, but it also comes with the risk of hurricanes. Each year, Florida residents need to prepare themselves for hurricane season, a period that brings harsh storms, strong winds and the potential for severe property damage.

One of the best ways to keep your home protected from these intense weather conditions is by installing hurricane-impact windows. These windows not only help safeguard your property but also offer a range of benefits that make them an excellent investment for any Florida homeowner.

1. Protection Against Storm Damage

Hurricane impact windows are specifically built to withstand extreme weather conditions. They are made from two layers of laminated glass with a durable inner layer that holds the glass in place, even if it shatters. Regular windows can easily break under pressure but impact windows can endure wind speeds of up to 200 miles per hour, helping prevent debris from entering your home. This helps prevent glass from shattering and dangerous flying debris entering indoors, giving you and your family a much safer environment during a storm.

2. Year-Round Security

Hurricane impact windows provide protection not only during hurricane season but all year long. As these windows are highly durable, they also help prevent intruders from breaking into your home. The strength of impact windows deters burglars, as they are much harder to break than standard glass windows. With impact windows, you are investing in both storm protection and an added layer of security for your home.

3. Energy Efficiency

The warm climate in Florida often requires air-conditioning which results in higher energy bills. However, installing impact windows can help reduce your energy bills. These windows provide an extra layer of insulation, reducing heat transfer and helping to keep your home cooler in the summer. This added insulation allows your HVAC system to work more efficiently, which can lead to considerable savings on your energy bills over time. Many homeowners find that their impact windows pay for themselves in the long run through lower utility costs.

4. Noise Reduction

If you reside in a busy neighborhood or near a main road, noise can be a constant disturbance. Hurricane impact windows are built with thick, laminated glass that not only withstands strong winds but also blocks out much of the external noise. This added noise reduction helps create a quieter, more peaceful living environment, so you can enjoy your home without the constant background noise from the outside world.

5. Insurance Benefits

These days many insurance providers offer extra discounts to homeowners with hurricane impact windows, as these windows reduce the chances of costly damage claims. By installing impact windows, you are showing your insurance company that you have taken steps to protect your property from storm damage, which can lead to lower insurance premiums. In this way hurricane impact windows can save you money over time, making them a smart financial choice.

6. Increased Home Value

Installing hurricane impact windows is also an investment that can increase your home’s resale value. People in Florida understand the risks associated with storms and impact windows are a desirable feature that adds appeal to a property. Potential buyers appreciate knowing that the home has been upgraded for protection against hurricanes, which can give you an edge in the competitive real estate market.

Contact 1st Choice Hurricane Protection for the installation of impact windows in Fort Myers FL. We specialize in high-quality hurricane impact windows that can keep your family safe, reduce your energy costs and add long-term value to your property. Get in touch with us so our skilled team can help you choose the best hurricane protection solutions for your home.

Signs That Your Home Windows Are Due for Replacement

SEO Vectra on July 30, 2024

When was the last time that you took a good look at your home’s windows? While we don’t often pay attention to them, windows play a major role in our lives by providing natural light and fresh air and improving the aesthetics of our homes. Just like any other thing, windows don’t last forever. Here are some signs that can indicate that your home windows are due for replacement.

Drafts and Poor Insulation

An obvious sign that your windows need to be replaced is feeling drafts even when they are closed. If you notice that there is a considerable difference in temperature near your windows and the rest of the room, then it’s possible that your windows aren’t insulating properly. This can put more pressure on your home’s HVAC system to maintain a comfortable temperature and lead to higher energy bills.

Difficulty in Operation

Opening and closing windows should be a smooth and easy process. If you struggle to operate them then they may be too worn out. Windows that don’t open smoothly or slide back down when left open, can cause injuries. They can also pose a major safety risk, especially during emergencies where exiting quickly is essential.

Visible Damage or Decay

Look at your window frames carefully and check for signs of damage such as water seepage, soft or decaying wood and bent frames. If you notice any of these signs then it’s time to get new windows installed, as these signs can indicate moisture problems that could cause substantial damage to your property if not addressed quickly.

Condensation Between Glass Panes

Condensation on the inside or outside of your windows is normal when there is a big difference in temperature indoors and outdoors. However, if there is condensation or fogging between two layers of the window pane then it could indicate a broken seal. This can lead to poor insulation, water seepage during rainy days and higher energy bills.

Increased Noise Levels

If you live in a crowded or noisy area and your windows don’t help much in keeping the traffic sounds out then it might indicate that they are too old and need to be replaced. Windows these days are designed to look not only more stylish but also to provide better sound insulation. They help ensure that your home remains a quiet haven where you can relax in peace.

Faded Furnishings

Have you noticed your curtains, furniture, or carpet fading? This might be due to your windows being old. Older windows can allow strong UV rays to pass through, causing your belongings and furnishings to lose their color and become faded over time. Modern windows are equipped with special coatings that help block these UV rays and protect your furniture and other belongings from sun damage.

Moisture and Mold Issues

Windows that leak during monsoons and allow water to seep in can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew. This can lead to serious respiratory problems and various other health issues. So it’s important to get rid of the mold around your windows and prevent it from coming back in the future by replacing the old windows with new ones.

Don’t let outdated windows harm the well-being of you and your family. Upgrade your windows to improve the comfort of your home and boost its energy efficiency and overall value. Trust 1st Choice Hurricane Protection for installation of quality impact windows in Fort Myers, FL. Visit our website to explore our diverse collection of impact windows and doors that provide thorough protection during hurricanes and can help elevate the aesthetics of your home.

Give us a call at 239-325-3400 and let our friendly and knowledgeable staff help you with your project today!

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