Florida homes are known for having an abundance of windows. This may be to let as much natural sunlight in as possible or to frame our beautiful coastal views. Windows help to bring the outside in. However, with all that glass, your exposure to flying debris and storm damage is heightened during hurricane season. That is why it is important to have impact windows vs non-impact ones. The good news is that impact windows in Southwest Florida are widely available. And whether you are building a new home, remodeling your house, or simply upgrading your hurricane-proof windows, you have many options to choose from. Two of the most popular types of impact windows in Florida are casement and sliding windows. And sometimes it is hard to know which one is better for your specific application. In this guide we help you pick the right window, Casement vs. Sliding Windows, for your needs.
Related: The Need for Impact Windows in Fort Myers, FL
Casement Windows
Casement windows offer several options, not only against storms but also in terms of looks and security. This style of impact-resistant window is attached to the window frame with hinges that open inwards or outwards. They are operated with a latch or crank system in most window products.
They are great for adding a luxurious look to your home while allowing light and fresh Florida air in.
You can’t tell the difference between normal casement windows and impact-resistant ones. They will look great and also offer hurricane protection with the ability to withstand intense wind gusts and flying debris.
Typical uses for casement windows:
- Hard to reach areas, such as behind sinks that require you to reach to open them
- Living spaces where you want a large view, lots of natural light, and lots of ventilation
- Egress due to their ability to open almost entirely out (or in)
Learn more about Impact Casement Windows
Sliding Windows
Sliding windows are also known as “horizontal roller” windows. These windows slide and close horizontally rather than vertically, just like a sliding patio door.
These windows are ideal for various parts of your home that may be high or difficult to access, like behind a kitchen sink. They are easier to open while other types of windows in these areas are difficult to open. Sliding windows are also useful for egress purposes in bedrooms. They can really be used throughout your home with some limitations.
Sliding windows are available in both vinyl and aluminum frames.
Typical uses for sliding windows:
- Hard to reach areas, such as behind sinks or in high spots
- Living spaces where you want a large view, lots of natural light, and lots of ventilation
- Bedrooms to provide required egress out of a building
Learn more about Impact Horizontal Roller Windows
Choosing Between Casement and Sliding Impact-Resistant Windows
Deciding on casement vs sliding windows can be a difficult decision. They are commonly used in similar areas and provide similar functions, as we mentioned above.
Similarities between casement windows and sliding windows
Both types of windows also offer similar benefits, including:
- Design and customization flexibility
- Available in multiple color options
- Excellent ventilation
- Energy efficient
- Ample light and airflow
- Suitable for egress
- Security Protection
- Florida State Product approved
- Certain brands/models approved for HVHZ use
- Available in both standard and insulated impact glass types
- Ability to withstand up to a Category 5 hurricane
These two types of impact windows are both designed and suitable for hurricane, storm, and security protection. They are both designed to meet the current Florida building codes. This means they are designed to withstand everything that a hurricane can throw at them, from hurricane-force winds to flying debris.
Differences between casement windows and sliding windows
How to choose between the two windows
When choosing hurricane-proof windows for your home, it comes down to your needs (ie. existing opening), your style preferences, and the design of your home. If you are replacing existing windows then you may be limited to the existing window openings. Your space may also dictate which of these two windows is a better fit. It is always a wise idea to consult with an impact window company to get recommendations, ideas, and pricing for your project.
The good news is that don’t actually have to choose between these two styles of windows. That is because they can both be incorporated into your home’s design based on the functionality you need in a particular room or space. In other words, you can and will use many types of impact windows throughout your home.
The Importance of Hurricane-Proof Windows
The truth is that standard windows and tempered glass windows offer no protection when it comes to the severe weather conditions that Southwest Florida often experiences. Fort Myers alone has seen four severe hurricanes over the past two decades alone. Two of these were Category 4 storms with winds over 120 miles per hour. This doesn’t even account for the number of tropical storms and severe thunderstorms that the area experiences throughout the year. Wind force can cause regular glass to crack or shatter due to the extreme pressurization. Impact-resistant windows are designed to safeguard against this shattering and protect your home and your family.
Once installed, your hurricane-proof windows will look like beautiful windows with the hidden power of protecting against hurricanes and more. Impact windows are one of the best solutions for protecting your Florida home vs mother nature.
If you are interested in impact-resistant casement or sliding windows we can help. Eurex Shutters brings decades (38 years) of experience in designing, customizing, installing, and maintaining hurricane-proof windows. Even better, our impact window installation process is easy and straight forward. Contact us with any questions or to get a free quote.
Or call (239) 369-8600 for immediate service.
