Florida homes turn to hurricane impact windows for storm protection
FORT MYERS, Fla. —
As hurricane season reaches its peak, Florida homeowners are increasingly opting for hurricane impact windows, which are designed to withstand severe storm conditions and protect homes from damage.
“They’re designed to keep water outside of the house. They’re also designed to stand up to wind or big changes in suction. And finally, they’re designed to either not shatter at all or to at least keep the glass in place and contained in the event that a piece of flying debris hits them,” said Paul Hope with Consumer Reports.
Complete Coverage: Gulf Coast Hurricane Week
Consumer Reports tested eight windows, priced between $400 and $2,000, by shooting a nine-pound two-by-four at them at over 30 miles per hour.
Regular windows shattered during the test, sending glass flying—a significant danger to anyone inside the home. In contrast, hurricane impact windows broke but kept the glass contained.
The tests also simulated the pressure changes before and after a hurricane. While the impact windows bent under pressure, they remained intact within their frames.
The PGT WinGuard, priced at $640, emerged as the top performer, scoring 98 overall and receiving top marks for wind and rain resistance, as well as impact protection.
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