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When it comes to protecting your home from nature's fury, especially in hurricane-prone areas, installing the right windows is a critical step. The stakes are even higher if you live in a condominium, considering that you’re also dealing with shared walls and spaces.  

To make sure you stay safe when hurricane season hits, let’s break down everything you need to know about selecting the right windows for your condo.

Understanding Hurricane Windows

Before we can get into the nitty-gritty of condo hurricane windows installation, let’s talk briefly about hurricane windows.  

Known as impact windows, these windows are designed to withstand the violent winds and debris thrown by a hurricane. They consist of a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) sandwiched between two layers of glass. This construction achieves two things: resisting breakage and preventing the windows from shattering into dangerous shards.

Assess Your Needs

Knowing which type of hurricane window is ideal for your condo will depend on your specific needs:

Location

The closer you are to coastal areas, the more robust your windows need to be.

Building Codes

Check local regulations and building codes. Many coastal areas have stringent requirements for window protections, including specific impact standards.

Aesthetic Preferences

Hurricane windows come in various styles and tints. Of course, you want to choose those that complement your condo's design while providing safety.

Types of Hurricane Windows

There are two main options to consider for your condo hurricane windows installation: laminated glass and tempered glass.  

Laminated glass is the go-to option for condos due to its superior protection level. It holds together even when shattered, thanks to its interlayer. Plus, it can block up to 99% of UV radiation, reducing the risk of sun damage to interiors and reduce cooling costs.

Tempered glass, on the other hand, tends to shatter into small, blunt pieces and offers less protection against prolonged wind pressure and debris impact. However, it has a higher resistance to thermal stress, which means it can withstand higher temperatures without breaking, and it’s less expensive than laminated glass.  

Features to Consider

Now, for the part you’ve been waiting for: key features to keep an eye out for when gearing up for a condo hurricane windows installation.

Impact Resistance

These windows need to stand up to Mother Nature. Look for windows that can handle the specific wind speeds and flying debris common in your area. You don’t want a window that just survives the storm; you want one that makes it through without a scratch.

Energy Efficiency

Did you know that hurricane windows can help lower your bills? Many options offer UV protection, which means they keep out harmful sun rays that can heat up your condo. This feature helps maintain a cooler indoor environment during hot months, cutting down on air conditioning use and your overall energy costs.

Sound Reduction

If your condo is in a lively neighborhood or near a busy street, the constant noise can be a real headache. Good news: the same heavy-duty build that keeps the storms at bay can also block out a lot of that annoying street noise. Investing in hurricane windows might finally give you the quiet, peaceful home environment you’ve been craving.

Warranty

A robust warranty can be a game-changer. Besides providing peace of mind, it also protects your purchase against any unexpected issues. Find warranties that cover a wide range of potential defects and problems to really ensure your condo hurricane windows installation is protected for the long haul.

Let Us Install Your Condo’s Hurricane Windows!

Looking to safeguard your condo against the elements? Palm Beach Hurricane Windows is your best bet!  

Our top-notch windows come packed with the impact resistance, energy efficiency, and sound reduction features you need. Trust us to keep your home safe, comfortable, and quiet, no matter the weather. Call us now – let's get your condo hurricane-proofed with confidence!

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