When it comes to prepping your home for hurricane season, choosing the right protection can feel like a difficult decision. Two popular options are hurricane impact windows and traditional shutters. But how do they stack up against each other? Will you be prepared for the storm if or when it comes? In this post, we’re going to dive into the details and help you decide which is best for your home in your location.

What Are Hurricane Impact Windows?

Hurricane impact windows are specifically designed to withstand the brutal forces of hurricanes. They’re made from laminated glass and reinforced frames, creating a barrier that resists shattering under that extreme pressure. Think of them as your home’s superhero, offering round-the-clock protection against wind, flying debris, and even burglars.

Key Benefits of Hurricane Impact Windows:

• Year-Round Protection: Unlike shutters, hurricane impact windows are always in place and ready to defend your home.
• Energy Efficiency: These windows often come with energy-efficient coatings, reducing your energy bills and keeping your home comfortable. Learn more about how energy-efficient windows can benefit your home from ENERGY STAR.
• Curb Appeal: Let’s face it, they look better than those clunky shutters.

Not sure if hurricane impact windows are the solution for you? Schedule a consultation with JMI Windows to explore all of your options. We’ll set you up with the ideal protection for your home in your location.

What Are Hurricane Shutters?

Hurricane shutters are protective coverings installed over your windows to shield them from high winds and debris. They come in various styles, including accordion, roll-down, and storm panels.

Key Benefits of Hurricane Shutters:

• Cost-Effective: Shutters are generally less expensive than installing hurricane impact windows.
• Removable: Some homeowners appreciate that shutters can be stored away when not needed or in use.
• Variety: With multiple styles available, you can choose an option that fits your aesthetic and budget.

The Downside:

While shutters offer solid protection, they’re only effective when properly installed before a storm hits. This means you’ll need to set aside time to secure them in place—and hope you’re not doing it in the middle of a storm.

Hurricane Impact Windows vs. Shutters: Breaking It Down

Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities. Do you value aesthetics and year-round convenience? Or are you looking for a more affordable option? This table above can help you make your decision when considering what your home needs for storm protection to be prepared before the storm rolls in.

What Do the Experts Recommend?

Both FEMA and other experts agree that protecting your home during hurricane season is non-negotiable. And while this may go without saying, you’d be surprised at how some homes get compromised when not prepped for this season correctly. For tips on retrofitting and prepping your home, you can check out FEMA’s recommendations as well as our hurricane season prep tips and why we recommend our hurricane impact windows for people like you in the Largo, FL area.

Why JMI Loves Hurricane Impact Windows

At JMI, we’re big fans of hurricane impact windows. While this may seem biased, we assure you that we only operate with our customers’ safety in mind as well as Largo, FL and surrounding areas best (and safest) practices for hurricane season. Hurricane impact windows offer unmatched protection, energy efficiency, and a sleek look that shutters just simply can’t match. With our extensive selection of hurricane impact windows, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect fit for your home—and we can help you do it. When you live in any area that is regularly hit with coastal storms, protecting your home should be of the highest priority and we’re ready to help you with the ideal solution for you.

Ready to Upgrade?

If you’re ready to upgrade your hurricane protection game, let JMI Windows guide you through. Schedule an appointment today to explore your options and we’ll help you find the ideal solution for your home. Don’t wait until the next storm is on the horizon—be prepared ahead of time to give you and your home peace of mind.