When comparing impact windows vs. hurricane shutters, it’s important to consider the protection and installation details to determine the right choice for you. For constant protection against storms and flying debris, impact windows are a better option than hurricane shutters, especially if you don’t want to install shutters that will change the look of your house. However, impact windows are more costly than hurricane shutters. If you want a budget-friendly option that’s still protective against storms, hurricane shutters are a solid option. 

While plywood will keep winds and debris from shattering your windows from the outside, window film can help protect your windows from the inside. Window film can keep a window from shattering. If your windows break, the film can hold the shards of glass in place, reducing the risk of cuts.

While you may sometimes see window film marketed as "hurricane window film," note that it doesn't provide sufficient hurricane protection on its own. It's no substitute for plywood, storm windows, or hurricane shutters.

It’s easy to tell if you have low-E windows. Light a match or grab a pen light and hold it up to your windows. You should see multiple reflections in the window—four for double-pane windows. If one of the reflections is a slightly different color than the other three, you have low-E windows. If you don’t have low-E windows, all the reflections will be the same color.

It’s time to replace your windows if most or many are in poor shape. In that case, new fiberglass windows will increase the energy efficiency of your home and add to its overall visual appeal, inside and out. Replacing your windows also can allow you to find a style that better suits the character of your home.

Constant fixes can be expensive over time, and by replacing your windows, you can be at ease knowing you now have windows that function properly and make your home more energy-efficient.