Blog Layout

Are Double Pane Windows Hurricane Proof?

Dave Charron • April 10, 2019

Are Double Pane Windows Hurricane Proof?

Are Double Pane Windows Hurricane Proof

Are Double Pane Windows Hurricane Proof?


The windows on your property serve a number of purposes. They allow natural light to come inside to illuminate your rooms. At the same time, they provide a barrier against the outdoor elements like the rain, wind, cold air and hot air. However, the degree of protection of this barrier greatly depends on the type of of glass that your window is constructed from and how severe those outdoor elements are. Most people know that single pane windows provide minimal protection. Double pane windows provide more benefits. However, are double pane windows hurricane proof? Here is information that can clarify that question.


Double pane windows do indeed provide more protection than single pane windows. They are rated for energy efficiency. "Double pane" means the window is contructed with two layers of glass. These are separated by a gap of between one-quarter to one-half inch. In this gap, a krypton or argon gas is injected to provide more insulation. When your home's HVAC system heats your home during the cold winter months and cools down your house during the hot summer months, the double pane windows will minimize the loss of your indoor heated or cooled air. That means your HVAC system will not have to work as hard, and your energy bill will be reduced.


With that said, however, the glass of a double pane window can still break if it is struck by an object. The window is typically not constructed with shatter-resistant or security glass. The double layer of glass is stronger than single pane, but it can still shatter if enough force hits it. Even if the glass was made from tempered glass, or glass that is reinforced by a layer of special film, that might prevent shattered glass pieces from flying everywhere, but it will not prevent breakage from a hurricane.


During a hurricane, the severe winds can pick up objects and fling them wildly in the air. The stronger the wind, the higher the force of impact when an object picked up by the wind is thrown against the window. The objects in the wind become dangerous projectiles. If one of these objects hits a double pane window, the window will not be able to withstand its impact. The window will break.


Glass that is intended to withstand impact has to go through extensive testing for their ability to hold up to big and small projectiles that hit it at a certain speed. This type of glass is rated for hurricane impact. Only windows that that are constructed with this glass can provide enough protection from a hurricane.


So, to answer the question "are double pane windows hurricane proof," the answer is no. You need something that is classified as an impact window. Double pane windows provide many benefits in terms of insulation and energy efficiency, but they are not designed to withstand the impact from projectiles thrown by a hurricane. For protection against a hurricane, you need an impact window that is designed to withstand breakage.




We love our new windows!  The crew was great!

- John Williams - Brandon, FL

You might also like

Tampa Window Companies

By Mackenzie Charron • March 18, 2023
Top Tampa Window Companies

Do i need hurricane shutters if i have impact windows?

By Mackenzie Charron • March 18, 2023
Do i need hurricane shutters if i have impact windows?

Do Impact Windows Reduce Insurance?

By Dave Charron • April 3, 2021
Have you ever experienced a hurricane? If so, you understand how much damage it may cause to your home and how much money you will have to incur in doing repairs. In these cases, home insurance may help a lot. But, do impact windows reduce insurance? Yes, you can make significant savings on insurance when you choose to install impact windows. Will Home Insurance Cover Windows? By installing high-quality impact windows, not only can it be beneficial in case of a hurricane or major windstorms, but it can also lower your homeowner's insurance amount. If you add an extra level of protection to your property, you will invest in an extra level of security. It may even help you to qualify for a discount when it comes to using your home insurance. Typically, your insurer can offer you the necessary information regarding the discounts you can have and the percentage. Reasons to Invest in Impact Windows Are you living in hurricane-prone areas such as Tampa, Florida? It would be wise to invest in top-grade hurricane impact windows. That is why you should hire an expert and reputable windows installation company like Tampa Replacement Windows. They specialize in replacing and installing windows and doors on your house to offer maximum security and protection from storms and hurricanes. Their services include impact windows installations and the necessary finishing jobs. Generally, you can select from a wide variety of high-profile doors and windows that best suit your requirements. Impact windows cost will generally vary on the style and type you choose. How Do You Get a Discount for Impact Windows? Since Florida is exceedingly prone to hurricanes and windstorms, insurance companies are usually legally bound to offer their insurers protected home discounts. Windows are typically the most affordable adaptations you can have on your property since they might give you the highest discount. In the event of a hurricane, doors and windows are the most vulnerable parts that may cause much damage. That is why installing impact windows can help you save substantial money in the end. It’s prudent that you talk with your insurer and learn about the requirements that you’ll have to get to qualify for a discount. Do Impact Windows Reduce Insurance? By How Much? This may sound unreal, but installing impact windows may save you up to $10,000 per year! In case you have been looking at how you can save money on home insurance, then this is the ideal way. Upgrading all your doors and windows to hurricane impact ones will offer you the highest level of security and, ultimately, you won’t need to bother yourself about your safety. More so, it will allow your eligibility for annual discounts on your home insurance. By contacting your insurance company, you’ll get more info on what you have to do to receive your discount. Based on where you live ad your insurance type, you might even reduce your premiums by half. And if you qualify for discounts, they might continue annually. However, consulting your insurance company will give you more details for calculating the overall amount you could save. Impact windows are a significant investment for homeowners living in a storm and hurricane-prone areas. Although securing your property in every possible way must be your priority, why not save mo ney along the way?
More Posts

Book a Service Today

Share by: