Impact windows, also called impact-resistant windows, hurricane windows or hurricane impact windows, are built with our laminated glass - Glass Sandwich™ and reinforced frames designed to withstand high-wind debris impact. In Florida, impact windows are a must-have for many home buyers and in new construction residential structures.
If you live under regular threat from tropical storms, hurricanes, and other high-wind events, impact windows may be the right product for your home. In this blog about residential impact windows, you’ll learn more about what impact windows are and how they help protect your home.
How Impact Windows Are Made and How They Work
Impact windows rely on a combination of strong materials and layered construction to protect your home during severe weather. Understanding how they are built and how they perform helps explain why they are often recommended in storm-prone areas.
Construction and Materials
Impact windows are typically made with laminated glass, which bonds two or more glass layers around a durable interlayer. This interlayer holds the glass together if it cracks, so the window can take a hit without breaking apart or sending dangerous shards loose. Frames are reinforced as well, often with materials like vinyl or aluminum, to handle high wind pressure and keep the window securely in place.
In many cases, impact windows also include energy-efficient features such as multiple panes, gas fills, and Low-E coatings. These additions help reduce heat transfer and improve indoor comfort throughout the year. The result is a window that protects your home during storms and supports everyday performance.
How They Withstand Storms
Hurricane impact windows are designed to absorb and resist force rather than shatter on impact. When struck by debris, the glass may crack, but the interlayer keeps the window intact and prevents the openings that let wind and rain inside.
Impact windows are also tested against the conditions they are built for. To earn Miami-Dade NOA certification, the toughest impact standard in Florida, a window takes a direct hit from a 9-pound 2x4 fired at 34 miles per hour, then holds up through thousands of pressure cycles that recreate sustained hurricane-force winds. These tests recreate real storm conditions, including both the initial impact and the pressure changes that follow, so the window provides a consistent barrier during extreme weather.
Hurricane Protection
Hurricanes are among the most powerful weather events in nature. To even be classified as a hurricane, a storm must have sustained winds of up to 74 miles per hour, and hurricanes can reach winds of 157 miles per hour or more. In this environment, debris can be lifted and thrown for feet, yards, or miles, often traveling fast enough to shatter a window.
During a hurricane, a broken window can be catastrophic. Once the window is compromised, air rushes in and causes a buildup of pressure inside the house. When this happens, the roof can blow off and other devastating kinds of structural damage can take place.
Hurricane impact windows are made from laminated glass or laminated insulating glass encased in a heavy-duty frame. PGT's proprietary Glass Sandwich™ laminated glass system helps keep the glass intact when struck by windborne debris, minimizing hurricane damage and helping protect the home's structure.
Energy Efficiency
Florida is a state of intense temperatures, with very hot summers and sometimes very cold winters. In this type of environment, maintaining a consistent and comfortable temperature indoors can be a challenge.
In the past, windows have been a source of energy loss in residential structures. The US Department of Energy estimates that approximately 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through windows, while during the cooling season, approximately 76% of the light that enters the home becomes heat. Impact windows are made from laminated glass or laminated insulating glass, which helps provide insulation and protection from unwanted heat loss and heat gain.
The US Department of Energy indicates that the right type of windows can reduce solar heat gain and improve thermal performance. Impact windows are designed to offer superior performance and excellence in this type of environment. PGT’s UV performance coating rejects up to 78% of solar heat and filters visible light. Many PGT windows can even be upgraded to achieve ENERGY STAR® certification, the most prestigious form of energy efficiency.
ENERGY STAR Ratings and Impact Windows
Energy efficient impact windows meet ENERGY STAR certified windows standards by satisfying thermal requirements for both U-factor window rating and solar heat gain coefficient, showing how well a window provides window thermal insulation and solar heat blocking across different impact window climate zones. These high-performance window standards require window energy certification through independent testing, giving homeowners a reliable way to compare performance across options.
Many PGT impact windows are available with glass packages that achieve or exceed ENERGY STAR standards. Qualifying products may also be eligible for federal tax credits under the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (Section 25C) — worth 30% of product cost, up to $600 per year.
Sound Dampening
Outside noises can be a big nuisance, depending on the usual activity where you live. What’s near your house? Are there loud neighbors? Barking dogs? Lawn mowers and leaf blowers? Airplanes? A freeway? All of these noises and more can impact your quality of life and have a negative impact on your indoor environment.
Loud noises can intrude upon your concentration, impact your ability to find deep sleep, and stop your children from sleeping properly, and if the noises are an inescapable part of the environment, can reduce the value of your home. Impact windows from PGT are sound dampening. The dual layers of strong glass and laminate can reduce exterior noises by as much as 65%.
Understanding STC Ratings for Noise Reduction
STC, or Sound Transmission Class, is the noise reduction rating impact windows use to quantify how much sound is blocked as it passes from outside to inside. A high STC rating impact windows achieve means less noise gets through, which reflects the acoustic performance impact windows deliver through impact windows sound dampening construction. This soundproof impact windows rating is determined by testing that compares sound levels on each side of the window across a range of frequencies, giving homeowners a reliable benchmark for impact windows noise reduction.
Residential impact windows often perform well in this area because of their laminated glass construction. The added layers and interlayer material create more barriers for sound waves, which helps reduce outside noise. Homes near busy roads, airports, or urban areas may benefit the most from higher STC ratings when choosing impact windows.
Added Deterrence Against Intruders
The same construction that stands up to flying debris also makes impact windows tough for an intruder to break through. This gives you peace of mind when you’re traveling and while you sleep at night. When you invest in impact windows from PGT, you can enjoy the safety and security that comes from knowing your windows are resistant to break-ins.
Increased Home Value/High ROI
Installing a product like new windows can raise the value of your home, especially when you choose to install a product that has exceptional durability and longevity. It’s estimated that the ROI of new window installation can be as high as 85%.
If it’s your goal to sell your home sometime soon, installing impact products can help boost the sale price of your home and may make your house more competitive with comparable homes in your area. Ultimately, the more competitive your home is, the faster the house may sell. In this way, installing new impact windows for property value may make the home sale process a greater success and a faster one.
Where Impact Windows Are Required in Florida
Florida building codes set specific requirements for impact windows in areas that face the highest risk of hurricanes and strong storms. These rules help protect homes from wind damage and flying debris, which are common during severe weather events.
Either impact windows or hurricane shutters are required in High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ), which cover Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Building codes also designate Wind-Borne Debris Regions (WBDRs), which cover all of coastal south Florida. Generally, structures within one mile of the coast in these areas must have impact-resistant glazing or approved shutters. Even where they are not required, many homeowners choose impact windows for added protection and long-term value.
Types and Styles of Impact Windows
Impact windows are available in many of the same styles as standard windows, making it easier to match your home’s layout and ventilation needs. The right style depends on how you want the window to function, as well as the look and airflow you prefer.
- Single-hung windows: One movable sash that slides vertically for simple ventilation
- Double-hung windows: Two operable sashes that allow airflow from the top and bottom
- Casement windows: Hinged at the side and open outward for full ventilation
- Sliding windows: Move horizontally and work well in wider openings
- Picture windows: Fixed panes that provide clear views and natural light
- Awning windows: Hinged at the top and open outward, even during light rain
With so many options available, homeowners can choose impact windows that meet both performance needs and design preferences without sacrificing functionality.
What Do Impact Windows Cost?
Residential impact windows typically range from about $700 to $2,500 per window, depending on size, style, materials, and installation requirements. Larger or custom windows, as well as upgrades like triple-pane glass or advanced coatings, can increase the total cost.
While the upfront price is higher than standard windows, the long-term value often makes up the difference. Between storm protection, potential insurance savings, and improved energy efficiency, many homeowners find that impact windows are a smart investment over time.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
Before making a decision, it helps to weigh both the benefits and the trade-offs of impact windows so you know what to expect. Benefits of impact windows include:
- Strong protection against storms and flying debris
- Can help reduce outside noise due to laminated glass construction
- May lower energy costs with efficient glass options
- Potential insurance discounts in storm-prone areas
- Adds long-term value to your home
While the benefits are clear, there are also a few drawbacks to consider before moving forward:
- Higher upfront cost compared to standard windows
- Heavier construction requires professional installation
- Limited design flexibility in some product lines
- Repairs can be more complex if the glass is damaged
Maintaining Your Impact Windows
Impact windows are designed for durability, but regular care helps keep them performing well over time. A simple maintenance routine can extend their lifespan and protect your investment.
- Clean the glass regularly with a mild cleaner to remove dirt and salt buildup
- Inspect frames and seals for signs of wear or damage
- Check that locks and hardware operate smoothly
- Clear debris from tracks and drainage areas to prevent water buildup
- Schedule periodic professional inspections if you live in a coastal area
With proper care, impact windows can continue to provide protection, comfort, and efficiency for many years.
Find the Right Impact Window Dealer for Your Home
Hurricane impact windows offer a strong combination of storm protection, energy performance, and everyday comfort, making them a practical choice for many homeowners. While the initial cost is higher, the long-term benefits—especially in storm-prone areas—can make the investment worthwhile.
If you’re considering upgrading your home, working with an authorized dealer can help you choose the right impact windows for your needs and local requirements. A professional can guide you through options, installation, and next steps so you can move forward with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Impact Windows
Impact windows and doors are specially designed products built to withstand strong winds and flying debris during severe storms. They use laminated glass and reinforced frames to stay intact even if the glass cracks, helping protect your home from damage. In addition to storm protection, they can also improve energy efficiency and reduce outside noise.
Yes, impact windows are often called hurricane windows because they are designed to withstand hurricane conditions. Both terms refer to windows built with laminated glass and reinforced frames to resist impact and high winds.
Impact windows can last 20 to 30 years or more with proper care. Their lifespan depends on factors like materials, installation quality, and exposure to coastal conditions such as salt and humidity.
Many homeowners find impact windows worth it because they provide protection, energy savings, and potential insurance discounts. Over time, these benefits can help offset the higher upfront cost.
Yes, impact windows could increase your property value. Many buyers see them as a built-in upgrade because they can improve energy efficiency, reduce noise, and may qualify for insurance discounts. In areas prone to severe weather, homes with impact windows often stand out in the market.
Yes, impact windows can help reduce outside noise thanks to their layered glass construction. The extra layers create a barrier that makes it harder for sound to pass through, improving indoor comfort.
Look for features like laminated glass, strong frame materials, and energy-efficient options such as Low-E coatings or multiple panes. It’s also helpful to review ratings for wind resistance and energy performance when comparing products.
You can buy impact windows through authorized dealers, who can help you select the right products and handle installation. Working with a trusted dealer also helps you meet local building codes and get the most out of your investment.
