When it comes to keeping your home well-protected during the storm season both impact windows and hurricane shutters offer comprehensive protection. However, choosing which one to opt for can be challenging for homeowners. To make the right decision for your home, let’s explore the pros and cons of each option in detail so you can make an informed choice.
Hurricane Shutters
Hurricane shutters are popular among homeowners as they are more affordable and provide excellent protection from strong winds and flying projectiles. Here is a list of their pros and cons:
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: When compared with impact windows, hurricane shutters are more affordable which makes them a great choice for individuals who have a tight budget.
- Variety of Styles: There are various types of hurricane shutters like roll-down, accordion, storm panels and more. This means that you have lots of options to choose from and can select the one that best suits your home’s design.
- Easy to Install: These shutters can be easily installed and can be quickly deployed if a hurricane is approaching.
- Strong Protection: These shutters can help safeguard your windows by preventing them from being shattered by flying debris during a storm.
Cons:
- Manual Setup: Most shutters have to be manually deployed before a hurricane, this means that if you are out of town and a storm comes unexpectedly then your home will be left vulnerable.
- Aesthetics: Although shutters can blend well with the exterior of your home, some styles may not go well with your home’s design and look visually unappealing.
- No Noise Reduction: These shutters don’t provide any insulation against outside noises which could result in disturbance due to traffic noises.
Impact Windows: Pros and Cons
Impact windows are built to withstand the impact of harsh winds and flying debris without shattering. They are also known as hurricane windows and offer better solutions for storm protection. Here is a list of their pros and cons:
Pros:
- 24/7 Protection: Impact windows provide protection 24/7. If you aren’t in town and a storm strikes, you don’t have to worry about your home being vulnerable as these windows offer constant protection and don’t need to be manually deployed.
- Aesthetic Appeal: As impact windows look just like regular windows, they will not affect the appearance of your home and will go well with its aesthetics.
- Noise and UV Protection: These windows even provide benefits like noise reduction and protection from UV rays. Thus, making your house more energy efficient and comfortable.
- Insurance Discounts: These days many insurance companies offer extra discounts to homeowners who get impact windows installed as these windows protect your home and reduce the risk associated with storms.
Cons:
- Higher Cost: A drawback of impact windows is that the upfront cost of installing these is higher than hurricane shutters, which makes them a larger investment.
- Costly Replacement: If your impact window somehow gets damaged then the cost of replacing it can be much more expensive when compared with replacing a damaged hurricane shutter.
Which Is Better for You?
The choice between hurricane shutters and impact windows ultimately depends on your lifestyle, budget and preference. If you want a more affordable solution then hurricane shutters would be the right fit for you, but if you want your home to be constantly protected without having to do any manual setup then impact windows are an excellent choice.
Trust Shutters 239 for expert installation of impact windows and hurricane shutters in Naples and Marco Island, FL. Our skilled team can assist you in choosing the right option for your home based on your specific needs. Contact us today to safeguard your home with our cutting-edge storm protection solutions.
