Houston homeowners know all too well the stress that hurricane season brings each year. The city’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico means that strong winds, torrential rain, and flying debris are major threats when a storm approaches. For those looking to safeguard their families and properties, hurricane-resistant windows from Advanced Window Products offer a vital layer of protection—built to withstand the worst Mother Nature has to offer. In this blog, we’ll explore how these advanced solutions help Houston homes weather the storm, what sets their construction apart, and how to ensure you’re getting the most from your installation.
Houston’s Hurricane Challenges: More Than Just Wind and Rain
When hurricanes strike the Texas coast, Houston is often on the front lines. According to the National Hurricane Center, the region faces an average of three hurricane threats every decade, with severe storms like Hurricane Harvey in 2017 causing billions in damages. The risks go beyond water intrusion; windborne debris poses a significant danger to traditional windows, often shattering glass and exposing homes to further destruction and injury.
The challenge for homeowners is clear: standard windows simply aren’t designed to handle the unique forces generated during hurricanes. That’s why upgrading to hurricane-resistant windows is a smart, proactive investment for anyone living in the Houston area.
The Science Behind Impact-Resistant Glass
At the core of hurricane-ready windows is impact-resistant glass, a technology developed to address the shortcomings of conventional window panes. Unlike standard glass, which can shatter upon impact, hurricane-resistant windows use a laminated construction. This involves sandwiching a durable polymer interlayer—usually polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA)—between two or more sheets of glass. If struck by debris, the glass may crack but remains adhered to the interlayer, keeping the window intact and preventing dangerous shards from entering your home.
This technology has its roots in automotive safety glass but has since been tailored to withstand the extreme wind pressures and debris impacts found in hurricane-prone regions. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), impact-resistant windows can reduce the risk of home penetration during hurricanes by up to 90% when installed correctly.
Reinforced Frames: The Foundation of Storm Protection
While impact-resistant glass is crucial, the frame that holds it is equally important. Advanced Window Products utilizes reinforced frame designs that are engineered to resist the twisting, bending, and pulling forces that hurricanes unleash. These frames are often constructed from robust materials like aluminum or steel-reinforced vinyl, which provide both strength and durability without compromising on aesthetics.
Special attention is given to the anchoring system, ensuring that the window is securely attached to the structure of your home. This reinforcement is critical in preventing the entire unit from being blown out by strong gusts, a common failure point in standard window installations. A properly reinforced window frame not only holds the glass in place but also adds a crucial barrier against wind-driven rain and pressure changes.
Meeting Houston’s Stringent Building Codes
Houston and the broader Gulf Coast have some of the strictest building codes in the country when it comes to hurricane protection. The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) requires that windows installed in designated catastrophe areas meet rigorous standards for impact resistance and wind pressure. Products must be tested and certified to withstand flying debris and sustained winds, with ratings specified by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
Advanced Window Products stays up-to-date with all local and state regulations, ensuring that every window installed is compliant and provides the highest level of protection available. By choosing a trusted provider, Houston homeowners can rest easy knowing that their investment not only meets code but often exceeds it.
Enhancing Home Security and Everyday Comfort
The benefits of hurricane-resistant windows extend beyond storm protection. The same features that keep out wind and debris also make it much harder for intruders to break into your home, adding a valuable layer of security year-round. Additionally, the air-tight seal created by impact-resistant windows helps to reduce outside noise and improve energy efficiency—making your home quieter and more comfortable, no matter the season.
Many Houston residents also report lower insurance premiums after upgrading to hurricane windows, as insurers recognize the reduced risk of storm damage.
Expert Tips for Maximizing Window Performance
To get the most out of your hurricane-resistant windows, professional installation is key. Even the best materials can underperform if not installed according to manufacturer specifications and local codes. At Advanced Window Products, our installation teams are factory-trained and experienced in working with Houston’s unique climate and building requirements.
Regular maintenance is also important. While hurricane windows are built to last, inspecting seals, frames, and hardware each year ensures they remain in top condition. Clean your windows with mild soap and water, and avoid harsh chemicals that could degrade the laminate or frame materials.
When severe weather is forecast, close and lock all windows. This helps the frames resist wind pressure and ensures the interlocking components function as designed. If your home has older windows or those not rated for hurricane impact, consider upgrading as soon as possible to maximize protection.
Trust Advanced Window Products to Protect Your Houston Home
Hurricane season in Houston is unpredictable, but your home’s preparedness doesn’t have to be. With hurricane-resistant windows from Advanced Window Products, you can face every storm with confidence, knowing your family and property are protected by the latest in window technology.
If you’re ready to make your home hurricane-ready, contact us today for a free consultation and discover how our impact-resistant windows can make all the difference. For more information on our products, installation process, and warranty coverage, visit our hurricane windows page or call to speak with an expert.
Stay safe, stay secure, and weather the storm with Advanced Window Products—Houston’s trusted partner in home protection.