Strong storms can bring intense winds and flying debris that put your home at risk. One of the most effective ways to protect your property during severe weather is by installing hurricane impact windows.
These specialized windows are designed to withstand heavy impacts and extreme pressure, helping you stay safe even in the most powerful hurricanes. However, their performance depends on how well they’re installed.
Here are 5 ways to make sure your hurricane windows are installed correctly and perform at their best when you need them most. Read on!
1. Choose Certified and Experienced Installers
The success of any home improvement project starts with the right professionals. For hurricane impact windows, working with certified and experienced installers makes a big difference. These specialists understand local building codes and installation techniques required for impact-resistant materials.
Certified contractors are trained to assess your home’s structure before starting the project. They check for potential weaknesses in your window frames and surrounding materials. This inspection ensures that your windows are not only fitted correctly but also reinforced to handle the wind pressure.
An experienced installer also knows how to handle different window styles while maintaining airtight seals.
2. Conduct a Thorough Pre-Installation Inspection
A detailed pre-installation inspection ensures your home is ready for new windows. This step might seem minor, but it’s important to achieving an efficient and durable outcome. During this stage, professionals assess structural stability, wall alignment, and old frame conditions.
If your previous windows suffered water damage, those problems need fixing before installing new ones. Ignoring hidden issues can lead to poor insulation, leaks, or reduced impact resistance.
This pre-installation process allows the installer to identify any challenges early, saving time and preventing issues during the installation phase.
3. Use Quality Materials
Even the best hurricane windows can fail if window installation is done with substandard materials. To achieve maximum protection, you must use high-quality fasteners, sealants, and adhesives specifically designed for storm-rated installations.
Professional installers use corrosion-resistant screws, bolts, and anchors that can withstand moisture and air. Standard hardware may rust over time, weakening the structure and reducing window performance. Proper sealants prevent air leaks and water intrusion, which can damage interiors during a storm.
4. Focus on Proper Alignment
Even the strongest impact window will not perform effectively if it’s not properly aligned. During installation, precision plays a role in how well the window can resist hurricane forces. Misaligned or loosely fitted windows can cause leaks, or even structural failure when winds are heavy.
A professional installer ensures the frame is level, installed well within the opening. They make fine adjustments before sealing to ensure a snug fit. This process prevents undue pressure on certain sections of the glass or frame, which could lead to cracks or distortions over time.
5. Schedule Regular Maintenance
After your hurricane windows are installed, your responsibility doesn’t end there. To keep them performing at their best, regular maintenance and professional inspections are essential. Even the most durable windows can develop issues over time due to weather exposure.
Routine cleaning helps you spot early signs of damage. Check the glass for cracks, inspect the frames for corrosion, and make sure the seals remain intact.