Windows are a critical component of your home’s security, energy efficiency, and beauty. At the same time, they are the weakest link in the house in bad weather. Whether storms, snow, high wind, heavy rain, or hail is involved, non-covered windows can become severely damaged, resulting in higher repair bills and less energy efficiency.
It can be cost-saving in the long term and protect your home from adverse environmental conditions if you invest in weather-resistant windows and take protection measures.
Choosing the Right Windows for Weather Resistance
The initial step in safeguarding your home against harsh weather conditions is investing in good-quality, weather-resistant windows. The durability and performance of a window depend on the glass type, glazing, & frame material.
- Impact-resistant glass versus regular glass: Impact-resistant glass is meant to endure forces of high intensity, and that is why it is perfect for locations where hurricane or hailstorm occurrences are very common. Compared to regular glass, which becomes easy to break, impact-resistant windows contain an additional layer protecting the glass against breaking into hurtful pieces.
- Double or triple glazing to insulate and provide durability: Double-glazed/triple-glazed windows are more insulative and durable compared to single-pane windows. The layers provide a barrier against temperature swings and trap heat from the sun during winter and do not let heat in during summer, keeping your house more energy-efficient.
- Weather-resistant frames: The composition of your frame greatly influences whether it will hold
- up against extreme weather. Consider using uPVC, fiberglass, aluminum, or treated timber frames, since they are long-lasting and can withstand warping, rot, and cracking much better than any other material under harsh conditions.
- Window tints and coatings for UV & heat protection: Installing a low-emissivity coating/UV tint on your windows helps block out aggressive sunlight and heat. This keeps your furniture and floors from fading and makes your home more energy efficient.
Installing Storm Windows or Shutters
Installing a storm window or shutters as an additional layer of protection can greatly minimise damage in the event of a severe weather condition. Advantages of storm windows for increased protection, Storm windows provide a buffer against high winds, airborne debris, and rain. They also enhance insulation, diminish drafts, and increase security.
Storm shutter types
- Roll-down shutters: Mounted permanently and convenient to open using a crank/motor, for instant storm protection.
- Accordion shutters: Conveniently foldable panels, making them well suited for areas susceptible to hurricanes.
- Bahama shutters: They are hinged on top and pushed open on hinges at a fixed angle, giving protection against storm and sunshine and adding that tropical look.
- Storm panels: Interchangeable aluminum or polycarbonate panels offering convenient, yet complete storm protection on an as-needed basis.
- DIY vs. professional installation: Professional installation is worthwhile because it guarantees a snug fit and maximum performance, particularly for custom or oversized windows.
Reinforcing Window Seals and Caulking
Sealing windows tightly helps prevent drafts, water leaks, and energy loss in extreme weather.
- Importance of tight seals: Sealing correctly stops the entry of water in heavy rain and reduces heat loss during winter, making your house more energy-efficient.
- Inspecting and replacing faulty or worn-out caulk: Check your windows occasionally for cracked or broken-down caulk. Remove the old caulk and fill it with a new, weather-tight sealant to maintain your windows in an airtight condition.
- Employing weatherstripping as extra insulation: Apply weatherstripping to window frames to minimize drafts further and provide additional insulation. It works best in cold or windy conditions.
Using Window Films and Protective Screens
Improve protection on your windows by installing films and screens with the purpose of lessening damage caused by impacts and enhancing safety.
- Storm-protective shattering prevention security films: These films provide extra protection by eliminating shattering effects during storms and burglary, since they keep glass intact and undamaged.
- UV-blocking window films to minimize sun damage: a UV-blocking window film shields your home’s interior from damaging UV rays, minimising furniture and floor fading while keeping the home cooler.
- Hail and debris-resistant screens: Heavy-duty mesh screens will deflect flying debris, hail, and high winds, avoiding window damage.
Installing Window Awnings and Overhangs
Awnings and overhangs shield windows from sun, wind, and rain, maximising the lifespan of your windows. Advantages of awnings in minimizing exposure: Window awnings minimise exposure to direct sunlight, reducing the indoor temperature as well as avoiding UV damage on windows. Window awnings also protect windows from rain & blowing debris.
Materials and designs appropriate for various weather types:
- Fabric or canvas awnings: Suitable for sun protection yet need constant upkeep.
- Aluminum awnings: Long-lasting and weather-resistant, effective in rainy or windy climates.
- Retractable awnings: Offer the advantage of retractability during storms or gusts of wind.
Precautions for maintenance of durable awnings: Clean awnings often and inspect them for wear or tears. Retract them when it is too stormy or windy to save them from damage.
Keeping Windows Clean and Well-Maintained
Periodic maintenance is necessary to keep your windows weather-tight and long-lasting.
Seasonal inspection for leaks, cracks, and flimsy frames: Check your windows every season to detect and fix cracks, leaks/loose frames before harsh weather hits.
Cleaning methods for various materials of windows:
- Glass windows: Mild detergent & squeegee for cleaning streak-free.
- UVPVC or aluminum frames: Clean with damp cloth and prevent abrasive cleaners.
- Wooden frame: Clean using wood-friendly substance and apply protection sealant.
- Seasonal upkeep significance: Check your windows in advance of storm or winter season to ensure your windows are insulated, caulked, and sealed properly for protection.
Preparing for Extreme Weather Events
Taking preventive actions during storms, hurricanes/freezing weather can avoid expensive window damage.
- Preventive actions for hurricanes, storms/freezing weather:
- Cover windows with plywood or protective shields during hurricanes.
- Install insulation film in winter to avoid heat loss.
Window replacement versus reinforcing them: If the windows are outdated or failing, it might be more economical to replace them with impact-resistant types. Otherwise, reinforcing with seals, films, and shutters should give sufficient protection.
Conclusion
Weather shielding your windows is a wise investment that improves home durability, safety, and energy efficiency. By selecting weather-resistant windows, using storm shutters, and sealing properly, you will avoid expensive repairs and have your home ready for harsh conditions.
The price of proactive window maintenance is significantly lower than the cost of repairing/replacing broken windows. Putting priority on long-term weather protection will provide you with peace of mind and safeguard your home for years to come.