Windows and Doors, Build Smart
Hurricane season is well underway and, especially for those who live near the coast, it means it’s time to prepare for the heavy winds and rain that can come with these massive storms. Where do you start prepping your home?
According to an article from FEMA, coastal residents should establish an evacuation plan before a hurricane warning is issued to ensure a route to safer ground. Make sure your family is prepared with plenty of emergency supplies including food, water, protective clothing, batteries, flashlights and a full tank of gas.
While the storm takes place, individuals should listen to the local weather or news station for evacuation orders, if given. If you are forced to stay in your area during the hurricane, seek shelter in the most secure building. It’s best to stay away from windows and doors.
And, make sure you secure your windows and doors to help prevent flying debris from entering your home. What’s the best way to do this? Impact windows.
Why are impact windows important? These windows and doors, also called hurricane windows or coastal windows, are designed specifically for homes on or near a coast and engineered to withstand high winds and flying debris.
To reduce the risk of catastrophic structural failure during severe storms, it is essential to protect the home’s building envelope from windborne debris and internal pressurization. This protection begins with strengthening the windows, doors, and roof — the most common points of entry. Hurricane-rated windows and doors with impact-resistant laminated glass protect a home from flying debris without the use of shutters or boarding up your windows.
Impact-resistant windows and doors are engineered and tested to comply with stringent coastal building codes, including Missile D, and many are certified to meet High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) impact standards. When selecting impact windows and doors, verify that they are certified for your specific wind zone and comply with local building codes.
Why can’t traditional windows do the same job as impact windows? Although traditional replacement windows and doors reliably protect against everyday wind and rain, they require additional features to withstand the extreme winds, pressure changes and windborne debris associated with hurricanes. Structural reinforcements, durable hardware and impact-resistant laminated glass are incorporated in the window and door design to meet rigorous impact-certification standards
Put your trust in the design and functionality of impact windows that are carefully crafted to ensure you and your family stay safe from the storm. If you’re ready to add impact windows to your home, find a pro in your area to get started.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking for a professional to help with installation or a pro interested in purchasing Ply Gem brands and product lines, we’ve got you covered.
