Coastal regions are known for their breathtaking beauty and vast potential for luxury living. However, constructing a new home in these areas presents unique challenges due to weather conditions like wind, heat, humidity, and of course storms.
One of the best ways to ensure the safety and longevity of your coastal home investment is through the installation of impact glass windows. These specially designed windows have become the standard for coastal protection due to their numerous benefits.
Viwinco Impact Resistant Windows
Here at Dutch Built Homes, we primarily use Viwinco Impact Resistant Windows. We've found the Viwinco product to be superior to many other impact windows we've used.
The manager at our Guy C. Lee Building Materials in Wilmington NC, Lewis Conner, does a great job of recommending products to us that we can stand behind, because they stand behind them:
The strength and security behind our impact-resistant windows begin with our impressive impact-resistant glass package. In the event that non-impact windows are breached in a severe weather event such as a hurricane, the wind pressure buildup within the building envelope could either lift the roof, or compromise the structural integrity. To reduce the likelihood of this happening, our thermally efficient standard glass package is bolstered by the inclusion of a thin polyvinyl butyral interlayer. The PVB interlayer is a plastic like sheet that provides the resilience needed to keep the unit intact if struck by wind-borne debris. While the glass may crack, it is designed to remain intact to reduce wind pressure buildup.
Unparalleled Storm Protection:
The primary reason to choose impact glass windows for your coastal home is the protection they provide against heavy storms and hurricanes. Made from two panes of tempered glass with an advanced polymer layer in between, these windows are designed to withstand strong winds and resist shattering upon impact with flying debris.
The result is a window that can withstand strong hurricanes, providing optimal protection without the need for additional storm shutters.
Improved Energy Efficiency:
Impact glass windows are an excellent energy-efficient investment due to their ability to insulate your home more effectively than standard windows. The interlayer of laminated glass offers a barrier that significantly reduces heat transfer, lowering the cost of heating and cooling your coastal home. By keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, you'll see a reduction in your energy bills while maintaining a comfortable environment all year round.
Enhanced Security:
Impact windows are not only built to withstand the force of hurricanes, but they also provide an added layer of security to your home. Due to their robust construction and resistance to shattering, impact glass windows are more difficult for potential intruders to break, acting as a deterrent against burglary attempts. This extra layer of security can give coastal homeowners peace of mind, knowing that their property is protected against both natural and human threats.
Noise Reduction:
The noise-reducing qualities of impact glass windows are another benefit that coastal homeowners can appreciate, especially in busy vacation destinations or near maritime traffic. These windows can significantly dampen external noise, creating a serene indoor environment for relaxation after a long day in the sun.
UV Protection:
In coastal homes, the abundance of sunlight can be both a blessing and a curse. While the warm glow of the sun is a central part of coastal living's appeal, it can also cause fading and damage to furniture, flooring, and artwork within the home. Impact glass windows offer protection from harmful UV rays, shielding your interior furnishings from damage and maintaining their original appearance longer.
Increased Property Value:
Installing impact glass windows is an investment that will pay off in the long run. Prospective home buyers are more likely to be attracted to a coastal home equipped with these windows, knowing the protection and energy efficiency they provide. As a result, impact windows can contribute to increased resale value and demand for your coastal property.
Conclusion:
The numerous benefits of impact glass windows – from storm protection and energy efficiency to security and noise reduction – make them an essential feature for new coastal homes. By investing in these windows, you ensure the safety and longevity of your investment, providing unparalleled protection for your family, property, and peace of mind.
Written by Keith Bloemendaal
Keith is the owner/founder of Dutch Built Homes. He is also an established home builder and general contractor. Keith will be hosting a new podcast/vlog for contractors soon: The Contractor's Compass.
