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Window security film won’t prevent break-ins or stop your window from shattering from impact during extreme weather like hurricanes or tornadoes. However, applying security film is relatively inexpensive, and it can make breaking into your home significantly harder—often hard enough to deter burglars entirely—and keep your window from shattering on your floor after impact. For these reasons, window security film is often a worthwhile investment that helps protect your property.

To tell if a window is single or double-pane, focus on the edge. Double-pane windows have two glass layers separated by a spacer, which you can usually see around the edges. For single-pane windows, it’s just one sheet of glass. Another easy trick: shine a light at the window—single-pane glass reflects once, while double-pane glass reflects twice. Lastly, if you feel both sides of the glass on a cold day, double-paned windows will feel warmer because of the insulating gap between the panes.

In short, it depends. After 20 years, the glass in your windows is less energy efficient, which can cause increased electricity bills. You might also see signs of water damage or natural wear and tear over the years. However, with proper maintenance, some window frames can last up to 50 years, so you may only need to replace the glass to save on energy. 

At the same time, window replacement is a major investment, so replacing the glass in rooms most impacted by outdoor temperatures is one way to avoid going all-in to replace your windows.

Impact windows are a type of window made with impact-resistant glass, designed specifically for hurricanes. The glass, treated with ethylene-vinyl, can withstand winds up to 200 mph, as well as flying debris. Brands sometimes test their impact windows with large missile impact tests.

Impact windows may be required in some places. For instance, the Florida Building Code requires homes to have impact-resistant windows if they live within a mile of the coast where wind speeds can reach 110 mph or more.