Hurricane Shutters

Anyone living in northeast Florida knows that a standard residential window is no match for the powerful tropical storms that blow through the region. This type of climate calls for extra protection when a hurricane is moving in. Two of the most common types are impact windows and hurricane shutters.

Miracle Windows and Showers has been an impact window manufacturer and installer since 2006. Based out of Jacksonville, our four owners have a combined 100 years of experience in the industry, and our exceptional service and impressive products have earned us an A+ rating with the BBB.

Below we discuss some pros and cons of using hurricane shutters and impact windows as your home's line of defense against severe weather.

What are Hurricane Shutters and Impact Windows?

Impact windows are made up of heavy-duty panes of glass designed to withstand tropical winds and the debris kicked up by them. They still function as any window would, letting in plenty of natural light on sunny days.

Hurricane shutters are shutters that cover the entire window when closed, and act as the first line of defense when high winds start up. They come in a variety of styles, some rolling over the window, others shutting accordion style, and may offer varying degrees of protection depending on the need of the homeowner.

Storm Windows

Reasons to Consider Impact Windows

One reason to go with impact windows is that they are actually required in some areas, such as Florida. Due to high winds known for reaching over 160 miles per hour, Floridian homeowners must have high-grade windows in place that can withstand these conditions.

Miracle Windows and Showers designs three different grades of impact windows, varying on strength depending on what level of wind-resistance is necessary for the region:

  • 120mph
  • 150mph
  • 170mph

​Impact windows still come in many different styles for you to choose from, so you can select something to compliment your house. Because of their durability, impact windows do an excellent job at blocking out noise pollution and reflecting UV rays, keeping the interior of your house unaffected by anything outside.

Limitations of Impact Windows

One of the biggest drawbacks to installing impact windows is the cost. These windows tend to be pricier than standard windows, as they offer much more protection. As the manufacturer and the installer of our own products, Miracle windows and shower is able to cut out the middleman to offer competitive pricing on our top-grade windows.

Another thing to keep in mind is that impact windows are not foolproof—if a tree or something else large is downed in a storm, there is a chance of your window cracking.

Reasons to Consider Hurricane Shutters

One of the biggest selling points to hurricane shutters is their price. These typically cost less than impact windows, which is why some homeowners may choose to utilize them.

They are also made to be durable, and it's important to note that hurricane shutters are different than the decorative kind, and are usually made from materials such as steel or aluminum. They provide an extra line of defense, reducing the likelihood of debris hitting your window in the first place.

Limitations of Hurricane Shutters

One thing to remember about hurricane shutters is that they need to be closed in order to work. This may seem like a no-brainer, but if you're in a hurry to get somewhere safer yourself you may accidentally forget to close them.

Like impact windows, hurricane shutters are not foolproof. a strong wind could still be capable of knocking a shutter loose or off its hinges altogether and leave your home exposed. They are also unable to provide insulation or noise cancellation for your home as an impact window would.

Miracle Windows and Showers manufactures a variety of impact window styles that all offer your northeast Florida home the protection it needs during tropical storms, and impressive warranties on them for your peace of mind.

Call us today or fill out our online form for a free estimate on getting impact windows installed at your home, and hear more about our products and what we can do to keep your home safe!