Hurricane season presents unique challenges for homeowners who live in coastal, hurricane-prone areas. Regular glass windows are susceptible to damage from intense winds and flying debris. Impact windows, on the other hand provide strong storm protection against wind, rain, and flying debris. They also help make your home more energy efficient, cut your energy bills, reduce outside noise, and boost curb appeal. And there are many different types of impact windows to pick from. Which type of window(s) is a good fit for your home?
In this article we will explore 6 common types of impact windows, covering their appearance, how they work, benefits of each, and more. But first we provide an overview of what impact windows are.
Table of Contents:
What Are Impact Windows
Impact windows are Florida Product Approved and meet the current Florida Building Code. They are engineered and tested to withstand the impact of hurricane force winds and wind borne debris of even the most severe storm. These windows must pass a list of impact tests and wind pressure tests before they receive a Florida Product Approval (FL#) or Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance (NOA). Testing includes large and small missile impact testing.
These windows are built from heavy-duty aluminum or vinyl frames and impact-resistant, laminated glass. Laminated glass has three layers: glass, a polymer interlayer, glass. The interlayer is what keeps the glass together, even if it is fractured. The interlayer is sandwiched between the glass, and laminated in a special manufacturing process. This fuses all of the layers together.
Impact windows can withstand severe impacts. If they are impacted hard enough they may fracture, but the laminated glass will hold together. This means shards of glass will not go flying and you will be protected vs the elements. Both of these are critical during a hurricane.
Like standard glass windows there are many types of impact windows. They range in terms of style (which we cover below), size, materials, and rating. If you are doing all of your home’s windows you will most likely choose multiple types of windows vs just one type. For instance, the windows you have in your bathroom may not be the same as the ones you have in your living room or even your bedrooms.
It is good to note that all of our impact windows below meet Florida Building Codes. However, not all of them are offered as HVHZ approved. We note which of our impact window types are available with HZHZ approval.
Related Guide: Everything you Need to Know About Impact Windows
Impact Window Frame Types
When it comes to impact-resistant windows they come in two common frame types: aluminum and vinyl. Each have their own benefits and considerations, which we explore below.
- Aluminum Frame Impact Windows
- Pros: Aluminum windows are strong and durable. Aluminum is naturally corrosion-resistant, but it is powder coated for further durability and to provide different color options. Aluminum frame windows are also lightweight.
- Cons: Aluminum impact windows can be more expensive than vinyl. And while aluminum is corrosion-resistant it can oxidize over time in coastal environments if not properly maintained. Maintaining the windows helps prevent degradation of the coating. Also, aluminum does not insulate as well as vinyl windows.
- Vinyl Frame Impact Windows
- Pros: Vinyl offers better insulation and energy efficiency. High-quality vinyl windows are also low maintenance. They also have good resistance to moisture and condensation.
- Cons: Vinyl frames made from cheap or recycled materials can be susceptible to warping in extreme heat. The material may not be as strong as aluminum in extreme hurricane conditions.
6 Types of Impact Windows
1. Single-Hung Impact Windows
Single-hung impact windows, along with double-hung, are probably the most popular type of window. A single-hung window has one sash that slides up and down, which is why they are called “single-hung” (vs double-hung which have two sashes that move). The top pane of the window does not move.
What rooms can they be used in?
Single-hung impact windows can be used in many rooms, even smaller size ones in bathrooms. In this case they typically have frosted glass for privacy. Their basic, and different options mean they fit a wide range of home styles.
Design options
Single-hung impact windows come in a wide range of sizes and colors. They are available in both aluminum and vinyl frames. In addition, you can get them with or without grids. Another option is frosted or privacy glass, which is good for bathrooms or other uses where privacy is desired.
Benefits
- Easy to clean due to tilt sash
- Simple to operate
- Excellent energy efficiency
- High performance against air & water intrusion
- Can be customized to fit into any location
- Strong hurricane, storm & security protection
- HVHZ approved and Florida State Product approved
- Can withstand up to a category 5 hurricane
Learn more about single-hung impact windows.
2. Double-Hung Impact Windows
Double-hung impact window looks just like a single-hung window. The difference is that both the top and the bottom sashes open and close on a double-hung impact window. As a result, they allow more airflow in your home. They also allow for easier cleaning of the outside glass.
What rooms can they be used in?
Double-hung windows are similar to single-hung versions. So they are also commonly used all around the home. Specific rooms include living areas, bedrooms, kitchens, and even bathrooms (generally in smaller sizes and with frosted glass).
Design options
Double-hung impact windows are also available in many sizes and colors. Both aluminum and vinyl frames are available. You can get them with or without grids. Another option is frosted or privacy glass, which is good for bathrooms or other uses where privacy is desired.
Benefits
- Easy to clean due to tilt sash
- Simple to operate
- Excellent energy efficiency
- High performance against air & water intrusion
- Can be customized to fit into any location
- Strong hurricane, storm & security protection
- Florida State Product approved
- Can withstand up to a category 5 hurricane
Learn more about double hung impact windows.
3. Picture Impact Windows
Picture windows, also called fixed windows, are typically larger windows. They are primarily used to add a dramatic design element to a room. If you have a beautiful view they are great at providing a clear, unobstructed view. Picture windows are also exceptional for adding a ton of natural light into to your space due to their size.
These windows are available with HVHZ approval, which makes them a fit for coastal homes.
Design Options
Picture windows come in a wide range of sizes and options. They are available in both aluminum and vinyl frames. You can choose if you want grilles or no grilles.
You can combine them with arched windows to truly make a statement inside and outside your home. Alternatively, you can pair them with windows that open, such as awning windows, to get ventilation as well.
What rooms can they be used in?
Impact picture windows are commonly used in living areas, such as living rooms, and family rooms. However, they can be used anywhere where you want to allow a large amount of light in or capture a beautiful view outside.
Benefits
- Great curb appeal
- Unbeatable views
- Excellent energy efficiency (Energy Star rating)
- High performance against air & water intrusion
- Can be customized to fit into any location
- Strong hurricane, storm & security protection
- HVHZ and Florida State Product approved
- Can withstand up to a category 5 hurricane
Considerations
These windows do not open. If you need windows that provide air flow into your home they may not be the right choice.
Learn more about impact picture windows.
Explore them further: Picture Windows in Florida? Plus Pros and Cons
4. Sliding Impact Windows
Horizontal roller windows (also called sliding windows) slide side-to-side vs up and down. You can think of them like sliding glass doors, but windows instead. They are commonly used as egress windows in bedrooms. And they are a good fit for wide openings where single or double-hung (or other) windows do not look right.
What rooms can they be used in?
Sliding windows can be used in many areas. Common rooms include kitchens (behind the counter), bathrooms (up higher on the wall), and bedrooms where they serve as egress openings.
As mentioned above, sliding windows are a good fit for openings where the width is bigger than the height. They look good at wide widths where other types of windows might not look good.
Their easy operation also makes them a good fit for hard to reach places, such as behind a kitchen counter or up higher on the wall of a bathroom.
Design Options
Sliding windows are available in many sizes. They come in single, double, or triple sliding sashes, depending on the size of the window opening. And they can be purchased with both aluminum and vinyl frames.
Benefits
- Great for hurricane, storm & security protection
- Energy efficient
- Easy to open and close
- Allow a lot of light and airflow into your space
- Look great and won’t change the appearance of your home
- Customization to fit in any location in your home or building
- HVHZ approved and Florida State Product approved
- Can withstand up to a category 5 hurricane
Explore impact horizontal roller windows.
5. Awning Impact Windows
Awning windows have hinges on the top of the window. When you open them the glass goes outward from the bottom of the window. They generally opened and closed with a crank handle or other mechanism.
These windows are commonly installed at a higher position on a wall, but can be used below other windows (as seen in the picture). They are great for ventilation and privacy as well as for natural light.
Awning windows are a great choice for retrofits, especially if you live in a coastal or HVHZ designated area. That is because they are available with HVHZ approval. They offer extreme storm protection, curb appeal, energy efficiency and air/water barrier performance.
What rooms can they be used in?
Impact awning windows are commonly found in rooms where you want ventilation. This makes them a good fit for bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas. Versions that open fully are also suitable for egress, but these must meet the opening size requirements.
Design Options
Like the other windows we have covered, awnings windows are available in a wide range of sizes and options. They are available in both aluminum and vinyl frames.
Benefits
- Great curb appeal
- Cost efficient for retrofit projects
- Excellent energy efficiency (Energy Star rating)
- High performance against air & water intrusion
- Can be customized to fit into any location
- Strong hurricane, storm & security protection
- HVHZ and Florida State Product approved
- Can withstand up to a category 5 hurricane
Learn more about impact awning windows.
6. Casement Impact Windows
Casement impact windows have a hinge on the side of the window. They are sold in two versions: in-swing (open inward) and out-swing casement windows. They typically open and close via a crank, but some versions, such as egress ones are push-out vs crank. Casement windows are typically tall and narrow windows. You will also find these windows used in larger arrangements (row) of windows.
This type of window offers storm and security protection, energy efficiency, exceptional airflow and great looks. They are also great for letting light and fresh air into your home.
What rooms can they be used in?
Casement windows are commonly found in living areas, but can also be used behind a kitchen sink, in bedrooms, and even in bathrooms. Larger versions with adequate opening sizes can be used for egress requirements as well.
Design Options
Casement windows come in a wide range of sizes and options. They are available in both aluminum and vinyl frames. You can choose if you want grilles or no grilles.
Functionality
There are options when it comes to how they function as well. For instance, you can choose if an in-swing or out-swing casement window would be better for you. In addition, you can choose ones that operate via a crank handle or ones where you push the window out.
Benefits
- Beautiful design sure to add a statement to your room
- Excellent ventilation
- Energy efficiency
- Allow a lot of light and airflow into your space
- Can be customized to fit into any location
- Strong hurricane, storm & security protection
- HVHZ approved and Florida State Product approved
- Can withstand up to a category 5 hurricane
Learn more about impact casement windows.
Bonus: Impact Arch, Radius, Half Moon, Half Round Windows
Arch windows have many names. You may hear them called radius windows, half moon windows, palladium windows, half round windows, and more. This is more of a group of windows than a single shape or style. These are typically flat on the bottom and rounded on the top.
They are used above rectangular/square windows (see the second and third picture above). Other times they are used by themselves (see the first picture above). They are pretty versatile in how you use them.
This type of windows are commonly used to increase a home’s aesthetics and act as a design feature. They are unique, attention-grabbers that can elevate your home’s curb appeal.
Where should they be used?
Arch windows are best suited for areas where ventilation or egress (the ability to exit) are not needed. Or they are commonly used in combination with other windows that provide ventilation and egress. In Florida these types of windows are commonly added on top of rectangular windows, such as double-hung windows or picture windows. Similarly, they are added above or alongside impact sliding glass doors and french doors.
Eurex Shutters Impact Window Installation Services
Here are some reasons to go with Eurex Shutters for your impact windows installation:
- Highest Quality Windows: Eurex Shutter’s installs high-quality, impact windows and doors. We install products from trusted, local manufacturers, such as EAS, that specialize in high performance, impact windows.
- Expert Installation: Putting in new windows the right way is very important. At Eurex Shutters, our trained team will make sure your windows fit correctly. This means they will give you the best protection from hurricanes, last a long time, and help save energy by keeping the heat out.
- Huge Selection of Impact Windows: We have an endless amount of impact windows to pick from. Choose from a wide range of materials and styles to match your home. Whether your house is modern or classic, we have windows for you. Our windows high-grade aluminum or virgin vinyl frames and high quality impact glass. They look great and work great to protect your home. Custom windows can be fit to any shape or size, no matter how complex.
- Exceptional Customer Service: Our reputation for great service is a key reason we have been around so long. You will not only get friendly and responsive service. You will get a team that knows a lot about windows and will help you choose the perfect ones. There is no such thing as too many questions at Eurex Shutters. We will explain everything so you can make a smart choice you feel good about.
- 38+ years of experience and results: Since 1986 our team has been the go-to dealer and installer of impact windows in Southwest Florida. Find out why we have over 25,000 satisfied customers in the area.
Conclusion
Impact windows are a great option for homeowners in Florida. They provide reliable, hurricane protection while boosting curb appeal. They can also help reduce energy costs and noise. There are many different types of windows available for your Florida home. These range from more popular types of impact windows like single/double-hung windows, to more eye-catching ones like impact picture windows. But you do not have to pick just one type. You can use a variety of windows throughout your home.
If you are interested in impact windows and would like to get a free estimate for your home in Southwest Florida then we would love to help. Eurex Shutters provides high-quality impact windows, expert installation, and great service, all at fair prices. We have been installing hurricane protection in Southwest Florida for 38+ years (since 1986). Our local, family-owned and operated business would love to work with your family!
Call us at (239) 369-8600 or using the form below to receive a free in-home estimate today.
